Hi,
I've tried doing a search to see if this question had already been answered, but didnt see it.

I am looking to sell my fj cruiser and buy a f150 (2007-2008 model). Mainly because I want to eventually buy a sailboat (24'-27') and I'll need a proper towing machine. I have been wondering if there is any truth to the assumption that 4x4's are better at towing than 4x2's. Currently when I tow anything in my FJ, I put it in 4 wheel drive. Is it more stable? I dont know.

Any opinions? It would really help me in my purchasing decision.

 

Putting your rig in 4x4 on dry pavement is never a good idea, and I know plenty of guys that tow with their 2WD trucks just as often and as well as I do with my 4x4. Either or should perform just as well on dry roads. However 4x4 does have obvious advantages. I love 4-low when I'm pulling my mastercraft out of steep, and slick boat ramps. It's also been a savior when it comes to some muddy; not so conventional non-boat ramp lake drops. And 4x4 is great for snow as well, but I'm not sure how much winter sailing you'll be doing... As far as stability goes, your truck's stability depends on the tow package you choose, not whether you have 4x4 engaged or not. I never tow in 4-hi. Hope this helps.

 

4x4 makes absolutely NO effect on towing! In fact the GCWR on a 4x4 is less than a 2wd due to the extra components.

Like Forever said, 4x4 is for limited traction situations only.

 

^^ These two know there stuff.

You'll want to assess the boat ramps you use for your sailboat. If they're steep and slick, go with the 4X4 (Yellowstone Lake at Grant Village is a beast). If they're dry, go with the 4X2. Also, I have a 4X4 with the limited slip rear differential. I can go alot farther in 2 wheel drive than I could in any prevoius vehicle I owned without limited slip. Maybe that's all you need???

 

i put her in 4x4 low whenever im on the boat ramps.

 

4x2 typically has a higher towing capacity than a 4x4. However, I absolutely could not launch my boat with a 4x2 at some of the locations I launch from. I'm sort of an "extreme fisherman", lol. One of the launches I use is covered with slick algae year-round. Another launch I use is just a muddy bank with a truckload of gravel dumped into one area every once in a while. Without 4x4 low, I'd never be able to get my boat back out of the water.

 

Like I said, 4x4 has it's advantages, especially in boating.

 

I do the same thing!

 

how heavy is the sailboat- loaded, fueled, water, on the trailer, ready to drop in the water with gear in the bed of the truck?

 

i say go with 4x4 cuz it sure is a lifesaver when you cant get up a ramp. it may have a smaller towing cap, but either way your not going to exceed it with a boat