I am looking at 2 different trucks, both are 4x4, one has a 3.55 regular axle, the other has a 3.55 eleactronic locking axle. I understand the locking one but what is the regular axle? I will be towing a small boat and some light off-roading. Should I avoid the regular axle?

 

No, you are fine. I'm not a big fan of the electronic locking rear. You don't say which size axle is in each but I think the locker only comes in the 12.75". I would prefer a limited slip differential myself and I have to say I don't go off road to any great degree. A few dirt or gravel roads a few times a year, mostly pavement driving. There are Torsen diffs available if you feel you need it.

 

The normal axle is an open diff, but will have the electronic systems applying brakes as needed to perform better than a standard open diff. I wouldn't own a truck without some sort of locking or limited slip diff in the rear.

 

 

@kennyday Are the trim levels the same? I have had both. My 2015 did not have the E-Lock but since then, each of my 2018's have them. As said, "much better for the boat ramp".

 

I wouldn't rely on this versus getting the locker either.

 

Both trucks are XLT's with the 2.7 engine.

 

If you have any amount of snow or ice avoid the regular axle.
I too would not buy a truck without either limited slip or locking axle.
Actually I preferred the limited slip over this electronic locking axle, but the electronic does work.
I find this aluminum body truck to be a fair bit lighter in the back and find that even with minimal snow and ice I am always getting stuck in 2wd.

 

i'm assuming you don't have 4x4? because we have had pretty bad conditions here and i've used 4H no problems and have not needed to use the E-Locker

 

4WD works for the boat ramp too, but for off-roading you might really appreciate the locker.