I've been shopping for a used Supercrew and am finding plenty of 4wd but I think I really want a 2wd this time. Most trucks I am find have the 3.55 LS rear but I've found a 2wd Lariat that has a 3.55 open rear. It is the exact color, engine and gear I want but doesn't have the tow package or LSD. After reading the post about clutches going bad in the LSD, it makes me think the open rear may be better. I'll have to add a hitch and trans cooler but woudn't change the radiator. Any problem skipping the LSD or having the small radiator? I'll be towing 7000 lbs + about 20 times per year usually 50 miles or less each way. But may make a couple of 250 mile tows a year.

 

If you really like the truck go for it. You can always slap a detroit locker or eaton in the rear diff so you can get traction at the boat ramp.

Look in the manual for the maximum tow rating irregardless of whether or not it has the tow package. This should be the safe maximum rating, hopefully 7000lbs is below that. I hope it has a 5.4 in it for towing such a load or better yet the PSD.

Personally I'd want at least a 3.73 to pull that.

 

yep, it has a 5.4, I wouldn't consider the 4.6 it is too much weight. Max tow rating is 8000. I currently pull with my '98 Expy, it has a 5.4 is 4X4 and has 3.73 but it has the 17" wheels. The rpm on this Screw seems to be about the same as my Expy. With the longer wheelbase, it should be a better pull.

 

I wouldn't get the open rear end. I have a 2WD 4.6 with a 3.55 open diff and have a terrible time with tire spin.