What is "axle wrap?"

Axle wrap occurs usually on vehicles with the softer leaf springs commonly used for either a cushy ride or maximum articulation. As power is given to the rear axle in soft sand, the tires begin to grab. The springs twist into an S shape until they tighten up to the point that the force overcomes the traction. The spring "unwraps", causing a loud banging noise and causing the rear end to actually hop off the ground as the spring uncoils. It has been known to cause broken axles, especially in higher hp vehicles.

The causes of axle wrap are generally the soft leaf springs mentioned, traction aids (lockers, larger tires etc), hp or any combination of the above. In Xterras the magic combination seems to be tires and lockers.

As mentioned previously, some claim it doesn't exist in Xterras. But that is just not true. It does happen when you hit the magic combination.