I have never owned a four wheel drive before so please forgive my simple question.

In Consumer Reports they made a comment that most F-150 models (2010) do not have a full time four wheel drive option. Is this true? Could someone please educate me on this subject?

Thank you in advance!

 

F-150's have a 4x4 option, but no AWD option.

AWD is sort of like 4-wheel drive, but ALL the time.

4x4 is a selectable option in your truck that you can turn ON or OFF at any time pretty much. You decide when you need it.

That's it in a nutshell, what the magazine meant by that comment. There are other differences and I'm sure someone here will gladly go into more detail for you.

 

If you do get one, if the model you choose doesn't have a "lockable" differential, make sure to get a "limited slip" differential. It's still an option on some models of 4WD's. It was on my XLT, anyhow.

 

The Harley Davidson edition has All Wheel Drive, which differs from 4WD. AWD is always on. good for wet traction and handling on pavement, etc.
4WD means you can SELECT to have the front axle turning the front wheels when you need it to. It also offers low range (4LO) for crwaling up hills, on trails, pulling stumps, etc.
4WD is generally the better option for a truck that will see off road use. AWD is more for someone who will use the truck around city driving.

 

AWD in the Harley F-150 also has reduced towing capacity over the 4WD models, like 6000 pounds instead of 11,000.

Not a bad explanation of the terms.

 

Thank you very much for the information! Had Consumer Reports used the term "AWD" I would have known what they were talking about. AWD is not what I am looking for.

 

I am considering a STX with the 3V 4.6L engine & 3.73 limited slip differential.

Do you think the 3 Valve engine with a 6 speed transmission is a worth the extra money?

 

The 3V 4.6L and 6-spd auto gets you better acceleration and better fuel economy. There is no penalty besides the upfront costs. IMO, the upgrade over the 2V 4-spd is worth every penny.

 

I dont feel it is worth the extra money unless youre towing heavy loads. I drove both and went with the tried and true 2 valve. It tows my 4,000lb. boat no problem.

 

I very well could be wrong, but I believe the 4.6L 3V, 6 speed is the standard powerplant for the small V-8 in 4X4's. What you describe is exactly what I have in my XLT 4X4 as far as the engine and gearing go and I'm very happy.

 

The STX I test drove had a 4 speed and a 2 valve engine. It is hard to find a dealer with a 3 valve STX on the lot.

 

The STX 4x4 comes with the 2v and the 3v is an option.

 

If you check out the pickuptrucks.com shootout, the F150 is the only truck that can get up a slippery slope without having to stop and go into four wheel drive. I bet Consumer Reports did not tell you that.

http://special-reports.pickuptrucks....e-tractio.html

 

Can you get an STX with 3.73s and the 2V motor? I would think not, but could be wrong. That old 2V will run forever, but the 3V is just as hearty and breathes a lot better. The 6 speed is a great addition and will increase the mileage and towing capabilities, not to mention the 4x4 crawling ratio.

 

Here is part of the window sticker of the one truck I am interested in:



It has the 2 valve motor & 3.73 limited slip.

So far the X-plan is the best price I have been able to obtain. Maybe I should wait until the 2011 models are out?