towing on hard surfaces with a 2wd works fine. what can bite you in the rear is when you are not towing add a slight grade, or a little frost, or a skiff of mud, and there you sit and spin. once your moving you're fine, its just getting started. unloaded the diesels have huge weight on the front end and virtually nothing on the back

 

I've read all the posts here and I want to add 1 thing. The 4x4 chassis helps when towing trailers. I firmly believe that the extra weight in the front and mid of the truck aids in stability, mostly in the form of anti-sway and fighting crosswinds. It has nothing to do with actually engaging 4wd, just the weight and center of gravity of the truck.

 

But there is no difference between the 4x2 and the 4x4 frame.

The only difference in the trucks is the transfer case, front differential and drive shaft vs. an independent front suspension.

 

you don't think the massive weight of the diesel up front is enough weight by itself?

 

Even with a 5.4L, I don't think my truck is in danger of violating any of the laws of gravity.