These early (up to 2012) Escapes are under rated. Everyone I talk to who has owned one has loved it, and they are very utilitarian.

Not 100% sure yet. I'll do some research and try some things on the bench. Perhaps it's as easy as wiring 12v to it with a switch. It'll work one way or another!

Good question. The differential is usually controlled by a networked controller using data from a number of modules, so if I wanted to make 4wd work like it would from the factory then I would need to install a factory rear differential controller and probably modify several other modules. My goal is to install a simple toggle switch to engage and dissengage the rear diff, similar to how the earliest Escapes just had a switch. Not sure yet what that will take to accomplish, so stay tuned!