2wd Vs. 4wd
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New User
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2wd Vs. 4wd
I'm considering buying an '04 2WD Expy (w/ 5.4). Originally I wanted a 4WD vehicle for NJ winters but I am reconsidering since I might be able to increase fuel economy by saving about 250 lbs. Does anyone have real life experience with any differences in fuel economy between a 2WD and a 4WD? Also, this vehicle does not come w/ optional traction control (just a limited slip axle) - how well (traction, handling, etc.) do the 2WD Expy's do in bad driving conditions?
Thanks much.
Thanks much.
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I have an 03 with the option of 2WD, auto 4WD, 4WH High and 4WD low. When I run in 2WD vs auto 4WD the diff is minimal. Maybe 1 MPG.
On the limited slip deal. I have that also (3.73LS). It depends on the tires you have and what the expextations are. If you step on the gas in snow both whells will spin rather than the 1 wheel that usually happens on cars. The back end will come around on you if you're not careful. I know that North Jersey is certainly a place I'd use 4WD in the winter
On the limited slip deal. I have that also (3.73LS). It depends on the tires you have and what the expextations are. If you step on the gas in snow both whells will spin rather than the 1 wheel that usually happens on cars. The back end will come around on you if you're not careful. I know that North Jersey is certainly a place I'd use 4WD in the winter
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2003
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From: shelocta, pa
eat the mileage. when or if you get stuck fliping the switch is woth it. I fee better knowing my wife can turn a know and make it home easily. I have an 03 FX4. and the four wheel drive system is impressive. My last 4wd was an 81 f150.
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Joined: Mar 2006
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Definitely go with 4wd. I personally think 2wd suv's and trucks in the north are a waste. Up in my home state of Iowa, I was able to drive through some snow with my fwd stratus and dad couldn't with his 2wd tundra. Couple years ago I was able to use my expy to drive up a snow and ice covered steep hill, I was very impressed. Wish I could use 4wd more often.
Elder User
Joined: Dec 2004
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From: Woodland Hills
i've got the 2wd and it works just fine all winter long! perhaps i should mention i live in southern cali...
i've had the 4wd previously, both were 5.4 and i can't say i noticed any difference in MPG.
i've had the 4wd previously, both were 5.4 and i can't say i noticed any difference in MPG.
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Thanks for the input. I just bought the 2WD '04 XLT. I understand what your saying about how 4WD is critical in snow but... even in NJ I might have had the opportunity to drive in snow/sleet only a handful of times in the past two years. To me, the added weight and friction of a 4WD transfer case (not to mention there's more mechanics to worry about breaking down) , the money I saved buying a 2WD ($17,500 w/ 30,000 miles) and possibly gaining a mpg highway made buying a 2WD a no brainer. The only bummer is that I can't take it on the beach...
Thanks again.
Thanks again.
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What you will save in MPG's by not having the extra weight and friction of the front diff & transfer case, you are going to loose in trade-in value when you sell.
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From: Lunenburg, MA
Originally Posted by scratchedvinyl
Thanks for the input. I just bought the 2WD '04 XLT. I understand what your saying about how 4WD is critical in snow but... even in NJ I might have had the opportunity to drive in snow/sleet only a handful of times in the past two years. To me, the added weight and friction of a 4WD transfer case (not to mention there's more mechanics to worry about breaking down) , the money I saved buying a 2WD ($17,500 w/ 30,000 miles) and possibly gaining a mpg highway made buying a 2WD a no brainer. The only bummer is that I can't take it on the beach...
Thanks again.
Thanks again.
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Elder User
Joined: Dec 2004
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From: Woodland Hills
Originally Posted by scratchedvinyl
(not to mention there's more mechanics to worry about breaking down)
Thanks again.
Thanks again.
not trying to dis 4wd trucks though, 4wd is great when you need it.
enjoy the truck,
al
