advice on which towable vehicle

northshore, as noted earlier 2wd vs 4x is strictly up to you. 4x is more complex and just adds more potential problems. As I said look at the 2 sites I mentioned. Several times I have read about the 4x systems having issues, just dont really remember all. Since both are OBD2 a scan gauge could be a good investment to have and take on a test drive. It will point out issues and codes that maybe laying dorment in the system. Also 4x get a lesser bit of milage than the 2wd. Mine weighs close to 4000lbs so that could be a factor for you. I saw an ad from a salvage yard in yuma or kalif area that had used tow parts and they were cheap, particularly the base plates. just need to do a search for used parts. Check craigs list in your area and then move out to close by states. I wish we had a explorer sport with the 4 doors but last I looked they were way over priced and none had the manual trans and I think the auto's required some sort of thing from the dealer? Anyhow if you get either one like I said do a good test drive with a scan gauge (autozone/campworld etc). Then plan to do a complete service to inculde all fluids ignition parts etc. But like I said smaller amounts are still better than the cost of a new vehicle in the long run.