Do I really need 4x4?
12-02-2011, 10:58 AM
#1
Do I really need 4x4?
I'm about to purchase/order a 2012 XL. I will make very light use of the truck - rarely hauling heavy loads or towing so gas mileage is more important to to me than power. I live in NJ and have moderate winters. I'm leaning towards the 3.7 with 3.55 axle and 2x4.
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
12-02-2011, 11:03 AM
#2
"Hold My $tone$"
Join Date: Apr 2010
Location: Dank$ville, near Bud$burg, U$A (It $tink$!)
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I'm about to purchase/order a 2012 XL. I will make very light use of the truck - rarely hauling heavy loads or towing so gas mileage is more important to to me than power. I live in NJ and have moderate winters. I'm leaning towards the 3.7 with 3.55 axle and 2x4.
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
Especially with all the electronic traction control and wheel spin technology.
But even with all that new technology, I'd still order 'Posi-traction' (lsd or locker) if it's offered.
You won't feel as 'manly' tho...............
Last edited by Bottom Dollah; 12-02-2011 at 11:05 AM.
12-02-2011, 11:03 AM
#3
I'm about to purchase/order a 2012 XL. I will make very light use of the truck - rarely hauling heavy loads or towing so gas mileage is more important to to me than power. I live in NJ and have moderate winters. I'm leaning towards the 3.7 with 3.55 axle and 2x4.
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
12-02-2011, 11:09 AM
#4
I'm about to purchase/order a 2012 XL. I will make very light use of the truck - rarely hauling heavy loads or towing so gas mileage is more important to to me than power. I live in NJ and have moderate winters. I'm leaning towards the 3.7 with 3.55 axle and 2x4.
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
How will I do in occasional winter snow, wet roads and maybe wet grass? Can I get by
by just adding weight over the axle in the winter?
12-02-2011, 11:11 AM
#5
The 3.55 ratio should come with limited slip together. Might want to double-check when ordering. With the electronic nanny's and limited slip you'll be fine. Try without sand tubes first and see if you even need 'em. Driving in snow successfully has a lot to do with technique.
12-02-2011, 11:20 AM
#6
Senior Member
The short answer is no BUT I would still suggest you go with 4x4. First, you'll get the money back when you go to sell it. 4x4 trucks just seem to do better on the used market. Second, the differential service is only about $100/year depending on your driving habits so it's not exactly a dealbreaker. Third, you will only get stuck once before you are cursing yourself for getting 4x2. Believe me, its happened to me. Finally, and subjectively, I think 4x4 trucks just look better. Better...bolder... stance.
Yes, to all of what you opine!
But, some are happy to ride around in a 'gelded' truck.
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12-02-2011, 12:01 PM
#8
2013 Ruby Red FX4 SCrew
The short answer is no BUT I would still suggest you go with 4x4. First, you'll get the money back when you go to sell it. 4x4 trucks just seem to do better on the used market. Second, the differential service is only about $100/year depending on your driving habits so it's not exactly a dealbreaker. Third, you will only get stuck once before you are cursing yourself for getting 4x2. Believe me, its happened to me. Finally, and subjectively, I think 4x4 trucks just look better. Better stance.
12-02-2011, 12:09 PM
#9
Senior Member
If you plan on keeping it till the wheels fall off then the resale value arugument is irrelevant. I got 4x4 because I wanted it not because I need it. I've driven in the lake effect snow belt of west Michigan my whole life and never needed it. I knew what my vehicles were capable of and never pushed the envelope.
A friend of mine once stated that four wheel drive just gets you to the scene of the accident faster. You can rest assured that as we approach winter driving season, I'm being extra cautious and I don't assume that because I have a 4x4 that I can throw caution to the wind on icy roads. To be honest with you I'm a bit afraid of the new learning curve.
My truck seems to have really touchy brakes compared to what I'm used to. It's like when you let off the gas the thing doesn't slow down on its own as my other vehicles do, then when you step on the brakes they really grab.
Bottom line is get what you want. You only go around once in this life so enjoy it! If you decide to go with the 4x4 just make sure you use it often. I drive through my yard to hook up my travel trailer all the time in the summer and I flip on the 4 high and/or 4 low every time I'm off pavement just to splash the oil around and keep everything loosened up.
No different than your portable generator. Dont' let it sit in your garage for 5 years and expect it to fire up and run your house when the power goes out.
A friend of mine once stated that four wheel drive just gets you to the scene of the accident faster. You can rest assured that as we approach winter driving season, I'm being extra cautious and I don't assume that because I have a 4x4 that I can throw caution to the wind on icy roads. To be honest with you I'm a bit afraid of the new learning curve.
My truck seems to have really touchy brakes compared to what I'm used to. It's like when you let off the gas the thing doesn't slow down on its own as my other vehicles do, then when you step on the brakes they really grab.
Bottom line is get what you want. You only go around once in this life so enjoy it! If you decide to go with the 4x4 just make sure you use it often. I drive through my yard to hook up my travel trailer all the time in the summer and I flip on the 4 high and/or 4 low every time I'm off pavement just to splash the oil around and keep everything loosened up.
No different than your portable generator. Dont' let it sit in your garage for 5 years and expect it to fire up and run your house when the power goes out.
12-02-2011, 12:12 PM
#10
Just another member
