2WD vs 4WD?
I'm in the market for a 5'er that has a GVWR of 16,600. I've pretty much decided on a 3500 crewcab long bed diesel dually for a tow vehicle. Most of the used trucks I see (GMC/Chev) have 4WD. Is ...
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It depends where you live and where you use it. I have no problems with my 2WD truck but it stays on the driveway when it is snowy or icy. I don't boondock or go off road. Inclement weather or rough terrain definitely 4WD. 2WD on a used truck could offer some advantages: Definitely a lower price up front. Not getting a rig that has been beat up off road. Generally don't have to filter out lifted and modified 4WD trucks which seems to be obligatory. Can only speak of 3rd generation Rams, the 2WD trucks had rack and pinion steering and seem to track better than 4WD counterparts. Lower bed rail height if you end up with an older trailer.
More reasons to consider 2WD:
- You will get stuck more often in 4WD because you will be testing situations you wouldn't attempt with 2WD. Up here there are plenty of 4WD drive trucks in the road ditches when it snows. Owners think they handle curves and stop faster than 2WD.
- Better fuel economy - Less weight, fewer moving parts, sits lower so less under body turbulence, less aggressive tires.
- Less weight more payload capacity.
- Better ingress/egress, especially important if you are older. No need for payload robbing running boards or nerf bars.
- Easier bed access due to lower height. Easier to access under hood components.
- Less maintenance. Less expensive gear changeout.
When I bought my truck I bought a good set of chains that I carry. Figure I will pay myself $4,000 the first time I install them. Hasn't happened yet.
Good luck with your search.
More reasons to consider 2WD:
- You will get stuck more often in 4WD because you will be testing situations you wouldn't attempt with 2WD. Up here there are plenty of 4WD drive trucks in the road ditches when it snows. Owners think they handle curves and stop faster than 2WD.
- Better fuel economy - Less weight, fewer moving parts, sits lower so less under body turbulence, less aggressive tires.
- Less weight more payload capacity.
- Better ingress/egress, especially important if you are older. No need for payload robbing running boards or nerf bars.
- Easier bed access due to lower height. Easier to access under hood components.
- Less maintenance. Less expensive gear changeout.
When I bought my truck I bought a good set of chains that I carry. Figure I will pay myself $4,000 the first time I install them. Hasn't happened yet.
Good luck with your search.
