2008 HUMMER H3
March 31st, 2008 | by Ed |Immensely capable 4×4 Drivetrain
At the heart of the HUMMER H3’s immense capability is an electronically controlled four-wheel-drive system with an advanced traction control system (TCS), an incredible 45.1:1 crawl ratio (as standard) and lockable front and (optional) rear differentials. The TCS ensures that even with three wheels spinning, the H3 can still move forwards, even up a 10% incline.
The Borg-Warner two-speed electrically controlled transfer case has a robust 2.64:1 low-range gear reduction for highly controlled, off-road obstacle climbing. The Adventure model has as standard, an ultra-low 4.03:1 ratio for ultimate obstacle-climbing control. This is the most aggressive transfer ratio that GM has ever offered on a regular production vehicle.
The four-wheel drive system gives drivers a choice of four operating modes:
1. ‘4High-range Open’ is used for optimum highway performance and comfort under normal every day road conditions.
2. ‘4High-range Locked’ allows torque to be transferred to the front or rear wheels as needed.
3. ‘4Low-range Locked’ is for severe off-road use, such as crawling over large rocks or logs, or deep sand or snow.
4. ‘Neutral’ is a setting used for flat-towing vehicle recovery, if required.
As an option (standard on Adventure), a fifth operating mode is available with electronic, driver-selectable full-locking rear differential. With the rear differential locked, and the optional 4.03:1 low-range transfer case gearing, the H3 is as capable of crawling and climbing as the legendary HUMMER H1 and H2.
Standard fit on the Adventure model is a crawl ratio that is raised to 68.9:1 (manual transmission) and 56.2:1 (automatic) to give drivers a heightened level of control that makes the H3 one of GM’s most capable off-road vehicles.
Robust chassis, delivers Smooth ride and Responsive handling
While functionality and off-road performance are key features of the HUMMER H3, it also provides a surprisingly smooth and comfortable ride on-road, along with responsive handling and braking control for everyday driving.
Key features contributing to this rare combination of attributes include a fully welded ladder-type steel chassis frame, with a modular, three-piece design that incorporates fully boxed components for outstanding strength and torsional stiffness. Special high-strength steel is used to manufacture the side rails and cross members for extra durability and impact-resistance.
This frame is combined with an independent double-wishbone front suspension with torsion bars and, at the rear, a ‘Hotchkiss’ design multi-leaf, semi-elliptic, dual stage leaf spring suspension. Large diameter, 46 mm gas-filled shock absorbers are used all round, with 36 mm (front) and 25 mm (rear) anti-roll stabiliser bars. The two suspension systems, which are equipped with microcellular urethane bump-stops which act as secondary springs, provide both excellent on-highway comfort and outstanding off-road capability.
A highly sophisticated, power assisted rack-and-pinion steering system, with a three-bushing mount design and a 17.0:1 ratio, contributes to a manoeuvrable 11.3-metre kerb-to-kerb turning circle, similar to many D-segment cars.
The H3 is equipped with four large disc brakes and an electro-hydraulic four-wheel ABS anti-lock system, plus a Dynamic Rear Proportioning valve, so that quick, controlled stopping power is assured.
To protect the H3 chassis under the most arduous of off-road conditions, underbody protection incorporates four protective shields as standard. These include a front skid plate; a sump guard skid plate that also protects the front axle; a transfer case shield and a fuel tank shield.
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