I have 2 87 Syncros. Both give about the same gas milesage: average 20-21
mpg.

The lock knob you refer to should be pulled out to engage the AWD. In 11
years of driving Syncros, I can think of only two times I have had to
manually engage the AWD. The knob SHOULD NEVER BE PULLED OUT WHEN THE
VEHICLE IS MOVING.

Creeper gear (low) is very useful in deep mud or very slick surfaces.

With your larger engine, your 86 should be more peppy than your 83.

I believe the green indicator lights, as you describe, are functioning
correctly.

Mike

Michael J Vickey
vickrail@velocity.net

85 DblCab PickUp light gray 62,000 km
87 GL Syncro Wolfram gray 98,700 mi.
87 GL Syncro dove blue met. 107,000 mi.
91 GL Westfalia Camper Orly blue 26,000 mi.
93 Eurovan MV/Westfalia top Alpine white 52,000 mi.(FS)
93 Eurovan MV Tornado red 47,000 mi.