Do these affect the smoothness of the ride?
 

Hi, all,

We are looking at '08 Expeditions and my husband is leaning toward getting a 4x4. Is there any difference in the smoothness of the ride between a 4x2 and the 4x4? THis will primarily be used as our family vehicle.

What about tire size? Would you see any difference in turning radius or smoothness of your ride in 18" vs 20" tires?

Thanks for helping a newbie.

You'll have to drive them to tell, but usually a 4x4 rides rougher than a 4x2.

Again, you'll have to drive them, but unless the factory installs a 20" wheel, you can expect a rougher ride than an 18.

First, a 20" tire uses a lower profile which means a shorter sidewall on the tire. Shorter ends up stiffer and ride suffers. Wheel dings and flats become more likely with a short sidewall also.

A 20" wheel weighs more than an 18. More unsprung weight = poorer ride, braking etc. If the factory "compensates" in the suspension tuning, you might be ok. But if it's dealer installed, forget it.

Turning radius: Some 4x4 do not turn as far, the owners manual or Edmonds on line can tell you the diff. A fat 20" tire might hit things also, especially dealer installed. Factory installed would make sure it doesn't hit as this is a very poor situation and a liability.

Also, you will not like the price of 18" tires, but the price of 20's will leaving you gasping....

Spend the money on an extended warranty from Ford if you plan to keep it past the standard period.


4x4 in LA? What, you on mud roads? You ain't thinking snow....

We had just purchased a new 08 4x4 XLT and I must say I like it alot better then the 4x2.

The 4x2 had mushy handling and I like the slight stiffer ride and better handling of the 4x4.

We also got the 18's and I think it is a great combination.

Give the husband a thumbs up for the 4x4.

Tmod

my dads got a 08 4x4 EL with 20's and it rides perfect we always use it when going to austin 3hr trips loaded up with the kids.

I've got a 08 XLT EL 4x4 w/ rear air suspension. I came from a 04 2500 Yukon w/ quadra steer. The 08 Rides better then any SUV i've been in bar the buick enclave. It ride smooth w/o a harsh ride. I notice no difference in ride between the 20s and 18s, we have a few of them w/ 20s at work, I got 18s because I'm cheap (profit sharing will do that). There is almost no cost difference in tires if you shop around. The 20s definatly handle better w/ less sidewallflex. I'm getting 19 MPG in a 60 mile a day commute, mostly highway between 55 and 65 mph. Over 70 the fuel economy drops quick (again in a profit sharing company). if you stick to say 62 to 65 and just ride you'll get 20 mpg or better. I've only got 2000 miles on my truck so i'm sure the fuel economy will get better.

I test drove a limited w/ 20's before getting into another limited w/ 18's. The ride was noticeabvly smoother w/ the 18's on the bumpy roas that I test drove on. On a smooth highway, you can't tell the diff, but hit some potholes and the 20's are definitely stiffer. Not as much tire sidewall to absord the bumps.

What about the 17" tires?

Our '07 XLT is pretty bare other than HD towing. Ride is great.

-- Chuck