Ford 4 Wheel Drive Question

If It was over to do again I would take the one with the manual 4X4 lever as the other ones are so Expensive to repair if they go out.

Push button is not able to switch on the fly much above 3-5 MPH

With my older 4x4's, could manually switch gears up to about 20 MPH...gotta know HOW2 'feel' the gears as you double clutched'n rev'ed the engine...

Bedlam wrote:
I preferred the manual stick and hubs on my Ford due to being able to run in 2wd lo range. My Ram also has the manual stick but automatic hubs - If it wasn't for cost, I would convert them to manual to get back that functionality and simplicity.

I think your hubs are actually locked all the time but there's a center axle disconnect which keeps the driveshaft from spinning. For what it's worth I agree with - my ideal setup would be a lever and ditch the disconnect but add manual hubs.

There are issues with automatic locking hubs if you have to rock your vehicle to get out of a depression - The hubs may engage and disengage while you rock. I have always preferred a manual system that stays in the desired state until you change it. Choosing the knob selector over the stick limits you to automatic hubs (although Ford did have manual hub engagement). You still lose the ability to use 2wd lo range.

If your talking the stick for the 4 wheel drive it's easy to use just not convenient for front center seating. The push button dash is more electronics that can go wrong. I always preferred manual hubs as I know they are locked, not hoping they will. I lived in northern Idaho pan handle, off grid, 25 miles to town for years where 4x4 isn't just convenient, it's a must have.

I don't think reliability of either will be an issue. I had a 2004 F250 and a 2007 F350 with electric 4x4 shift. And now have a 2012 F350 with electric shift. No problem with any. And have never heard of them being a problem. Had a 1987 with the 4x4 stick on the floor. Prefer the switch on the dash. Whatever you find the best deal on or like best.

I preferred the manual stick and hubs on my Ford due to being able to run in 2wd lo range. My Ram also has the manual stick but automatic hubs - If it wasn't for cost, I would convert them to manual to get back that functionality and simplicity.

It is doing the pulling. This will be my new tow vehicle.

The manual shift will be more reliable in the long run, with no motor, switch or electronics to fail. Having said that, my dad's 2000 F250 has the electric shift with zero issues in 150000 miles. The electric shift leaves a cleaner floor and is easier to use.

Is it going to be pulled or do the pulling?