Re: [a/s] 2WD vs. 4WD

[bjacobs <bjacobs@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

The up side is that you will have more traction,, nice in mud at camp
sites, much lower gears because the 4x4 will have a low range.  This one
item is king.  This is real nice when spotting a rig.  With 4 wheel low
range and 1st gear, I can really go very slow and still have the power
to move with out floating the clutch.  It is not necessary to sacrifice
good ride to get 4 wheel drive.  If you want a monster truck, expect a
little harder ride.

On the down side, it will cost about 3 miles per gallon.  I get about 15
in my F150 4x4 solo and 12 pulling a 25 ft 76 Trade Wind. I think only
the solo mileage will be effected by the 4x4.  

>   The same question can be rephrased to address another question. Namely, the
> relative merits of diesal vs. gas engines.

IMO, The diesel engine will not pay for it self unless you run the truck
over 200,000 mile.  In the past, the diesel option cost about $4000.  I
could give you the fuel and it would never pay for itself.  Even today
with the cost of gas at about $1.50, $4000 will buy 2700 gallons of
gas.  That would take you 40,000 miles.  I consider that 1/3 the life of
the truck.   I would love to have one.  It sure is a nice toy.

bill 
25 ft Trade Wind in WV