Out of all the pickups I've owned only had 1 2wd. It was nice going down the highway but thats it. Got stuck in my FLAT driveway in 2 inches of snow. Never again.

 

Well, that's a question only you can answer. For me 4x4 is the only truck I will own, I drive off pavment too often to not have it.

 

Keep in mind that your 98 12 valve is the Holy Grail of Dodge pickups. If you can comfortably pull the new trailer with it, keep it and use the money you save to buy some new goodies for the 98. Just my opinion. As for the 4x4, I engage mine every once and a while to make sure it works, but have been in situations with previous trucks that makes me feel more comfortable knowing that it is there if I need it.

 

im definately in the pro-4x4 category. The 4wd is there if you need as well as 4 low for tough pulling situations. Another category plus for me is simply the "looks". That's a personal thing, and very subjective, But I think a 4x4 truck looks alot better than a 4x2. I also like that they stand up taller for better visibility.

Whatever the initial cost difference is on the front end you will probably get it back when you sell it.

The only downside I can see is a slight decrease in mileage.

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4x4!

These trucks are so heavy in front, if you go anywhere that isn't plowed and sanded or in any grass or dirt or mud you very likely will be stuck.

My truck is a truck, not a grocery getter. I need to move things, pull things, get places in deep snow, and work on construction sites. A 2 wheel drive wouldn't work for me pulling a 10,000 pound trailer up a muddy dirt road. So really it's all about how you use your truck.

In my area 2 wheel drives don't sell well. A 4x4 will always get an extra $5K, if not more.

 

i have a 03 dually 4x4 if you think u will burn more fuel with 4x4 put manual lockers up front and there is no front diff drag anymore

 

I'd never get a 2wd diesel unless I was only hotshotting and was willing to park it at the 1st blush of snow or used it just to snowbird my RV to AZ.
Especially a dually, they get worse traction than an equal single wheel truck.
I believe you'll recoup most of your initial cost at resale. Extra maintenance is a big factor if you're putting on lots of miles, otherwise no different up to at least 100k mi.