I recently just got orders to move to Fort Carson, Co. My question is, do I need a 4wd truck there? I really like my current one, but I wanted a 4wd one from the get go. (wife said no. It's not practical.) Now, is this my opportunity to rectify the situation?

The reason I ask is due to the fact that it gets about 43in of snow per year. Thanks for any input guys.

 

probly be nice to have and make your life easier. we lived in PA my dad only had to take my moms suv to work a few times when he needed 4wd, but he did need it. and let me point out one very crucial point. YOU WERE RIGHT. WIFE WAS WRONG.

 

Boy was your wife wrong!

If all that you are using the truck for is going to and from work. Then 4wd isn't a must have, but when you need it, it is invaluable.

We average around 50-55" of snow each year here, and for getting to and from work I only "need" 4wd maybe once a year. But for me I end up using 4wd alot more once I am at work, for moving job trailers around-getting material to the house-and just getting myself from the road to the house, than I do getting to work.

My suggestion is to try it with the truck that you have now, with weight in the bed, if you find that you don't like it and need 4wd then start looking new trucks.

 

Thanks. We also like to do some hiking. Im pretty sure it would be nice to have to reach some of the trailheads.

 

I'd say get the 4x4. The rear end is so light without anything in the bed, when the roads are slick they tend to get squirrly. Pop on 4x4 hi and you can actually manage to stay on the road without having to watch your every move.

 

Better to have it and NOT need it, rather than need it and NOT have it!

There will be that one situation that you'll think "wow, if I only had a 4x4..."!

Hope you get it figured out! Good luck

Nem

 

When I was stationed in IL, 4 wheel drive was my best friend. Used it basically every day in the snow. You will def want it.

 

Look at the "Stuck in the mud" thread

 

I had 4x4 in the past and it was ok. Do I need it!? No.

I guess it's really up to you if you want the luxury of 4x4. No one needs 4x4 unless they live up in Alaska or upper Canada.

 

"upper Canada" has not existed since 1841 and was situated in present southern Ontario, not too many trucks around in those days. . .I live three hours north of the US boarder and a 2wd truck is not an option around here.

 

you should be ok with a 2wd. spend some money on some good tires and you should be alright. i live in the country south of cleveland and we get plenty of snow. havent been stuck yet, knock on wood, and i have the junk stock street tires. drive smart and you'll be fine

 

You dont need 4x4 for that much snow I think you could definitely get away with a 4x2 but throw some sand bags in the back for stability, I put about 400 pounds of sand In the back of mine during the winter and probably use 4x4 maybe at most three times and we get 120 inches a year. But if I was you I would have not asked us at all and convinced the wife that a 4x4 is needed if you really want one that bad.

 

You are still up there.

I know about the "upper Canada" history lesson...


But in the US there really isn't the need for a 4x4 unless you feel insecure or want it for the luxury/fun.

I've cut right through 1 foot of snow, up to my frame, with no problem, and that is with 800 lbs of sand and those junk 3/4 worn Hank00ks. I could probably cut it down to 400 or less lbs of sand with good tires or studded tires.

 

Go ahead and get the 4x4 as you will use it in the snow storms that you will get in CO.

 

Have you scoped out the neighborhood you'll be living in yet? Much of Colorado Springs is flat and you will do fine with a 2wd, just throw some sand in the back. I personally would not spend the money you'll lose by selling yours and getting a 4wd unless I knew I really needed it.