I tow with a four wheel drive Nissan, with manual hubs. There,s no
significant difference in mileage with the hubs engaged or disengaged. The
extra height of the 4WD will require a dropped ball receiver.
Richard L. Hensley, P.E.
Hensley Engine & Machine
----- Original Message -----
From: "Chuck Voboril" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, March 22, 2007 12:21 AM
Subject: Re: [F500] tow vehicle question
Downside:
4WD has worse gas mileage from the extra friction and diff pumping loss.
Hubs that totally disengage would eliminate most of that since the front
diff would not then not be churning while in 2WD.
Typically 1 to 3 Mpg hit on a 4WD SUV vs 2WD model-may be similar on a
truck.
The extra weight of the $WD parts is not a significant factor affecting
Mpg at large all-up towing weights.
Higher initial cost and long term maintenance for ANY 4WD.
Slightly more noise.
Upside:
If you tow in bad weather or in muddy or wet pit areas-it can be wonderful
to have.
However, with a posi or a dually rear, you may never see much advantage to
4WD.
Last:
If you don't want to be tied to only 4WD choices, go to another dealer
with a proper fleet office or go on the Internet to buy at fleet prices.
You can still trade a vehicle in.
Seriously consider antisway devices if you don't plan on a 5th wheel.
No general agreement on what is better given an antisway device on the
rear hitch setup.
5th wheel will undoubtedly turn sharper, however
Chuck
[EMAIL PROTECTED] wrote:
I'm looking at buying a new pickup for towing my racing trailer. The
deals being offered make buying a truck from dealer stock instead of
ordering very appealing. So all the local dealers only stock 4 wheel
drive pickups.
I've never considered towing with a 4 wheel drive. Are there any
significant advantages or disadvantages to consider?
Thanks
Herb Noble
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