I know there are lots of threads out there with fx4 and axle choices, etc.
Wanted to post mine to make sure I'd be making the right choice for my type of driving, and what is listed on the Canadian build site.

Mine would be used for a mix of highway and city commuting, sometimes in a lot of stop and go traffic, and some longer road trips on highways, ranging from 4 - 14 hours of driving in a day.
I will never tow anything. Nor will I likely do any real off road stuff, and I won't use it for work. Pretty much a fun family 'car' with a ton of room for stuff for our road trips and great to have for east coast winters. I typically put on about 30k km's per year on my cars..

I like the idea of having skid plates underneath, but other than that not sure if i really need anything from the FX4 package, if I should get it anyway for the sake of resale down the road, etc..

So...
I can get FX4 package (on Lariat screw w/5.5 box) for $750, and it will get me the sticker, shocks, skids, hill descent, and the 3.31 locker.

Or, I can get skid plates alone for $120. I can also add a locker for another $400, and by doing it this way, I can choose from 3.31, 3.55 or 3.73, all same price.

Which is the best option for me? If I go with the second option, and I get the locker, should I get 3.55? Is it a noticeable difference in how the truck drives? I seem to have read both. Some say it has more go power from a stop? Others seem to say if you tried two trucks and one had a 3.31 and the other a 3.55, you'd never know the difference if no one told you..

Lastly, the integrated brake controller....it is a $350 option. Again, I'll never tow. Am I hurting myself down the road for resale? Can't these be added aftermarket anyway?

Thanks!!!

 

For your driving/usage 3.31 is fine and will result in the best fuel efficiency. You definitely do not need anything else if you do not intend to tow.

Not really sure that you will need the locker either, unless you find yourself absolutely stuck in snow and then it might get you out of a bad situation, but since you don't do offroad, probably not justifiable.

You don't need the integrated brake controller. Yes, it can be added later by someone that needs it.

I suggest saving the money and just getting the skid plates if you really want them, but even they wouldn't totally be necessary for your needs.

Good luck with your decision!

 

Thanks! One other thing... Do the skid plates block access to the oil pan and filter? Need to be removed for oil changes?

Cheers

 

In my FX4 (2009), the ride is much stiffer than other models. I don't mind it, but it is noticeable.
If you make your purchase based on resale value, you will probably not come out ahead. I would go with what you want right now, however, I'm sure you will be happy either way.
I'm going FX4, 5.0, 373's but I have three trailers and I use them quite a bit.

 

Not sure which engine you have selected, but based of your info it sounds like a 3.31 would be sufficient. Also, I would suggest considering resale value before ruling out the FX4 package, and hopefully your dealer could assist you with this consideration.

 

Sorry, meant to include that, will be getting the 5.0 engine for sure.

 

Based on your description of what you plan on doing, the 3.31 non-locker is fine.

Despite the fact that you said you wouldn't tow or go off-road, if you ever found yourself in a position where you needed to tow (e.g., help a friend, your needs change, etc.), the 3.55 would make a better choice than the 3.31. You really won't see an appreciable MPG drop between the 3.31 and the 3.55, either.

Skid plates? You said you're not going off road. You don't need them - that's just extra weight on the highway.

Integrated trailer brake? For your current needs, not needed.

That said, my truck is primarily highway usage, but there might be a trailer with an ATV or lumber in the back once in a while and I never know where I'll find myself (i.e., off-road), so with the 5.0L, I went with the 3.55 locker.

I consider the 3.55 be the best all-around gear for the majority of people's needs (unless they do LOTS of heavy towing, then it's the 3.73). If you are 100% sure you'll NEVER tow or NEVER go off-road, then you can do fine with the 3.31 - but I personally wouldn't.

 

You don't need the fx4. But I would add it just because. Especially if you pony up $520 for skid plates and the locker by itself.

 

I think the OP needs a VW Jetta wagon diesel not a truck.

 

I think some people shouldn't procreate.