I've narrowed down my options to two rangers, both very similar, the main difference is that one has 4x4 and the other does not. The 4x4 Ranger costs about 3grand more. So my question is; How often do you guys actually need to use 4x4? is it worth the 3grand? thanks!

 

Personally, I wanted 4x4 when I went truck shopping there was many Ford Rangers on the market at decent prices. But I wanted a newer for Ranger, 4x4, extended cab with a regular bed and had to be the 4.0. I have plans to build it when time comes and money. But for now, I would rather have it an not need it then need is and not have it. The same way I feel about my guns.

 

Get the 4x4!!!

 

i have a limited slip 2wd on 33's, and i go anywhere i like. putting a locker in for $350, means ill be even better. 2wd wont get you into as much trouble, better on gas, easier to lift/lower, and at 3K less its a no brainer. and even living in canada, i dont put weight in my bed during the winter.

i swear, driver ability goes further then 4x4. an idiot in 4x4 is worse then a good driver in 2wd when it comes to offroad.

 

Depends on what you need it for. Do you live in a snowy area? Do you plan on 4-wheeling it?

If you live in a place with a decent amount of snow, I say go for the 4x4. Also, if you plan on wheeling it...you'll want a 4x4. Sure, you can get places with a locked 2wd. But if you plan on wheeling it regularly then you'll want a 4x4 platform.

I live in CO where we get a decent amount of snow on the front range, and lots in the mountains. I use my 4x4 maybe 30 times a year between the snow we get and getting to some camping spots. Plus I love helping people out in 2wd cars/trucks who can't make it up hills or drive off the road into a ditch when its icy. Sure, I probably don't NEED it most of the time, but I like the thought of having it. Thats worth 3k to me...especially since I usually keep my vehicles for at least 5 years.

If its going to be 99% DD, and you won't kick yourself later for buying a 2wd, go that route. As stated above, they are easier to lift or lower and typically get better MPG's.

 

It really depends on how much you would use it. You know your area and habits better than anyone. The only thing I would say is make sure the 2wd has limited slip, an open diff and an empty bed can get you stuck in the stupidest places.

 

Alright all makes sense, I'm leaning more towards the 4x4 now just because I'd rather have it and possibly not need it than need it and not have it. Thanks!
One more question though haha probably should've mentioned it in the first place...
Would you guys ever buy a rebuilt status truck? The 4x4 truck is rebuilt but apparently it was only due to a rear bumper accident. Thoughts?

 

I'm pretty happy with my 2WD. Being a EDGE model it has the same ride height as a 4x4. Once I get my truck paid off, and the locker installed it should be better.

 

I started out life with a 2wd. got old really quick. buy the 4x4

 

Even with my Truetrac, I found myself in a number of situations where I was just sitting there spinning 2 rear tires instead of 1. That is with 280 lb in the back, but with old Cooper Cobra 225/70/R14 tires. Maybe the tires really are that much of a difference in this case, hard for me to say. So I'm on the fence to be honest, probably leaning towards 4x4 if you see a lot of snow.

 

This past winter, I had lots of fun driving around town after 10" of snow fell with a bed full of snow. LOTS of people stuck...I was just puttering around looking at all the downed trees. Even the wife had a good time, though very nervous at first. I only engage mine during winter. KC has a brush drop-off...sometimes that gets muddy/soupy.

 

Go with the 4x4. These trucks can't get out of their own way in the snow in 2wd, it's nice to be able to flip a switch and have all the traction you need.

 

That's a personal decision. My truck had same issue, side damage. I didn't even know about it until someone pointed out that the paint in the sunlight looked a tiny bit different.

As to 4wd, it's awesome to be able to use it. At a drivethru at taco bell i was in 2wd and just kinda randomly slid on the ice as i was slowly driving thru to order. I put it in 4wd and was able to point my front end the right way. It's little things like that that are very nice. Also on icy intersections in winter I sometimes go into 4wd for the intersection so that i dont spin tires the whole time.

 

If it's only about saving on gas money...the 2wd will do it. If you want more from your truck, it'll cost you more. Mine I use in the snow and ice during the winter and on the beach in the summer.

So, for me a 2wd just wouldn't cut it. Decide what;s best for you.