mark11

As I search for a tow vehcile for a future 5th wheel, (expected to be around 10,000# and 30'), the Mega Cab 2500 with a 5.9L is on the radar. Never having had a 4wd truck the idea didn't seem too appealing, however when thinking about pulling a 5er around campgrounds in the rain, or other similar situations, the idea warrants further consideration. Granted 4wd reduces the payload and towing capacity somewhat, yet the reality is that the 2500's suspension will need to be upgraded to 3500 standards with either choice (3500s are more difficult to find). With the 4wd I'll probably have to flip the 5er's axles, and have the slight increase of the center of gravity.

What are the pros and cons that you guys have experienced with either 2wd or 4wd.

Homer S.

These trucks are so front end heavy that they easily become stuck in soft sand, wet grass, etc. without a trailer. I've had to use 4wd in places where I never had to with any other vehicle. Plus the 4wd low range comes in handy sometimes when backing a trailer in soft or rough terrain.

Busboy

The low range is great for maneuvering a trailer in tight spaces with a standard transmission. You don't say auto or standard trans but there is only ONE way to never have an automatic transmission problem when towing, buy a standard transmission. As for flipping the axles? Most newer 5vers either have the adjustable height suspension or are made just high enough to accommodate a 4x4 truck. I think they are 50 inches to the pin. Also I believe a 2500 should be able to handle most 30 foot 5ver pin weights.

stumpjumper

go with 4x4, the suspension on the rear will prob handle it mine does. i chose to raise my trailer 4 inches to be level with truck. i repositioned the leaf spring in a lower hole in the mount bracket on the trailer and i bought taller spring equalizers...

Jeff in TD

I'd say get a 4x4. You will get nearly all the cost difference back in higher resale value, and if it saves you from having to get pulled out a time or two you will be better off.

My 5th wheel is in the weight range you describe. My last truck was a 3500 SRW, and with the pin weight, weight of the hitch, and people in the truck, it leveled it out nicely. If you can find a 3500 I'd grab that, to stay within weight ratings and to not have to add airbags.

With my older 5th wheel, I had marginal clearance between the bed and frame with the trailer riding an inch or two higher in the front. Since I go into really rough, uneven spots, I chose to do the axle relocation thing. I bought new spring seats and took them and the axles to a professional welder. Total cost I think was like $70, and the trailer tracks true, and seems to handle the same as it always has (though I never try to set land speed records while towing around curves in the first place).

Anyhow, newer trailers are often set up to clear the higher bedrails of later trucks, so you may not have that issue.

With the mega, depending on the 5th wheel you may need a slider...

annabelle

If you ever owned a 4X4 you would not consider a 2wd. When you need it you have it.

TexasCTD

I am definately another vote for 4wd. They cost a little more upfront but your truck will always be worth that much more no matter how old it gets, imo. They can help you in sand, mud, or wet grass towing or not towing. The 4wd can help you when backing up hill or in slow moving situations, especially with an automatic by helping it stay cooler. And lastly, 4wd trucks just plain look better and sell easier down the road.

2wd vs. 4wd is kinda like a decision involving a short vs. long bed truck.......you might or might not need it, but you can't use either one if you don't have it. Think of it as an insurance policy. You may not need it, but you will be glad you have it if you do.

..

clive

im with annabelle,good call annabelle

PChouinard

4x4
Like the old commercials,
Never leave home without it.

Besides that, chicks like 'em.

blackimpala

I have a Dodge 4X4, had to pull a friends Ford 2wd & 5er up a gravel incline. He had the power but not the traction. I really wish I would have gotten a picture of it *Hee Hee Hee*
Floyd

Gary Emerald

hot-shotting down the interstate? get a 2wd

camping off the pavement? get a 4wd!

DieselDo

4wd is almost the only thing that holds resale value on any vehicle. besides who drives 2wd anymore. j/k you 2x4 ers.

Jeff in TD

Well there are some advantages of 2wd... They are lower- no bedrail height issues, easier to get in and out of if your knees have some miles on them, and generally get a bit better MPG.

I'd still go 4x4, though. I remember when my neighbor got a dually 2wd, planning on snow birding and not needing it... Then it snowed before he left, and he couldn't get the truck out of the driveway.

Lurch

Just for the sake of discussion. 2wd benefits:
better fuel mileage
better front end
better ride
less parts to wear out/replace
easier cab entry for the vertically challenged

All that said. I'm a farm boy so certainly believe in 4wd.
When I was over the road full time I bought a 2wd for just those reasons. I never had a problem getting stuck, but you MUST be aware of your vehicles abilities.

cdhd2001

Depends on where you live. 4wd is a no brainer in the northern states. 2wd is the norm in the southern states.

I have always had 2wd. Just need to know your limits and not do anything childish.