2wd vs. 4wd

**Norseman** · 12-24-11, 15:08

I would like to get some opinions on 2WD vs 4WD in regards to an overall "package" when it comes to prepping. My current truck is 2wd and and more importantly (for me) is that it is paid for, only has 34,xxx miles on it, has all the space I need, and does everything I ask of it, but it is not a 4x4. As I continually re-evaluate my prep plans this is something that keeps nagging at the back of my mind, but I don't need a 4x4 on a regular basis.

So I guess my question is this; How much emphasis should realistically be put on this from the prep standpoint? Is the extra cost worth the peace of mind? Or would the money I would spend to get into a decent 4x4 be better spent elsewhere? Or would I be better off just beefing up the truck I already have to make it a bit more capable?

Any thoughts would be welcomed.

**ryan** · 12-24-11, 15:12

If you dont have much experience driving a 4x4 it will only get you stuck worse faster.

**ryr8828** · 12-24-11, 15:16

I only buy 4 wheel drives. You get your money back on the extra cost when you trade them in.
If you don't get a positrack type rear end when you get a 4x4 you're wasting your time, I'd rather have a 2 wheel drive with posi than a 4x4 without posi.
If you run off in the mud and bottom out it won't matter if you have 4x4 or not. I bought mine because I like to get around in the winter.

You could always find an older 4x4 and keep your present truck since it's low miles and paid for.

**NoveskeFan** · 12-24-11, 15:18

If you have a need to be off road, or if the areas you will be call for it, then it can be a good thing. I live in an area where the roads are about the only way to travel (woods everywhere). That said, I drive a 4x4. If my truck was 2wd I dont think I'd loose any sleep, especially if it was paid off. Just carry some tow straps and pay attention to where you go.

**cinco** · 12-24-11, 15:20

A possible upgrade for your existing truck is to install a locking rear differential. This will provide equal power output/drive to both rear tires. Most vehicles have an "open" or "limited slip" differential. Open provides power to only one tire -thus most vehicles are only "1 wheel drive". Limited slip will provide some extra drive to the second wheel. It is amazing how far one can get with only a locked rear axle.

Most "four wheel" vehicles (without locking differentials) are really only "two wheel drive" (one driving wheel in back and one in front).

**DJK** · 12-24-11, 15:21

Originally Posted by ryan

If you dont have much experience driving a 4x4 it will only get you stuck worse faster.

That is been my experience too. Like ryr8828 said, get something with an anti-spin rear end. That will help you through most situations that you are likely to encounter.

**zacii** · 12-24-11, 15:28

If you don't go off-road, or drive a lot in snow, then there is no point for 4wd.

4wd has a better resale value, and depending on where you live, a better resale market.

I live in the boonies, therefore I always have at least one 4wd vehicle.

**DeltaSierra** · 12-24-11, 15:50

If your truck is paid for, go buy yourself a good set of chains, and look into getting a locking axle....

When that truck dies, get a good four wheel drive truck (Toyota Tacoma or 4Runner....)

**ryan** · 12-24-11, 15:55

Putting a true locker in the rear is not a good idea IMO. You will wear out tires much faster. They make alot of ratcheting and popping noises (depending on model) as well as chirp the tires in parking lots. I am assuming this is a daily driver.

The best advice I think I can give would be this;

Learn the limits of what you have, a 2wd will go alot more places than people give them credit for.

If you really want a 4wd, again learn the limits of what you have, 4wd wont go as far as people give them credit for.