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Froggi Donna · 06-27-2006, 12:08 PM

Starting to look at used one ton trucks and wondering whether I should consider 4WD only or would 2WD be okay (saves me several grand). Thanks!

Froggi Donna · 06-27-2006, 12:08 PM

Starting to look at used one ton trucks and wondering whether I should consider 4WD only or would 2WD be okay (saves me several grand). Thanks!

Paul Heuvelhorst · 06-27-2006, 03:35 PM

Donna,
The only advantages I can think of for having a 4whl drive are:
1. You plan to travel where the pavement is non-existant (sand, rocky roads, etc.)
2. If you travel snow/ice laden roads.
3. If you pull a trailer through any of the above conditions where the extra traction is needed.

As one who owns 2 4whl drive vehicles, due to the snow/ice conditions in our area, I have first-hand experience. I do love our truck when I need to back the trailer into tight situations, although 4whl drive does increase the turning radius, so I can't make as tight a turn as I can in 2whl drive.

I hope this helps you understand the right features for the truck you need.

WWFan · 06-27-2006, 04:54 PM

Donna:

I concur with Paul...we finally graduated to 4WD and it's preety darn nice IF you do any off-highway camping. And here's the REALLY good news...even though it's a couple of grand more, it's like the diesel engine- it retains it's value to a great degree so you don't wind up on the losing side of things. Consider it "putting money in the bank".

Which I just re-read your post, and you didn't say anything about getting a diesel- if you're pulling ANY considerable weight, the diesel is the ONLY way to go...I know there's some V-10 people out there that will disagree, but I know for a fact that a good majority of them never had a diesel- alot more than those who never had a gasser.

Good luck!!

Sean

melon · 06-28-2006, 07:43 AM

Its gonna cost you 500 bucks to get pulled if your in the middle of no-where, if you can get a tow truck out there. So your half way there. All I can say is as far as upgrades, the 4 wheel drive one is the one that makes the most sence. That and the deisel...and the leather seats...plus the stereo DVD...everything else can go.

Rod

Froggi Donna · 06-28-2006, 07:52 AM

It will definitely be diesel...no question there. I won't be going off-road, my Harley doesn't really like that <g>.

Seriously, mostly campground parking with some blacktop boondocking thrown in. Will be avoiding winter weather as well.

Thanks to all for your input!

Rick A · 06-28-2006, 08:23 AM

I am a 2WD guy. Every truck I have ever owned has been 2WD. I do live in an area that sees snow every winter and never had an issue. I do not do any off roading so that was not a consideration. I prefer 2WD for the lower maintenance costs and the fact that there is less to break on the truck. I will agree that resale is hurt due to the fast that it is not 4WD, and that seems to hold true everywhere, not just in the snow belt.