Ford F-150 XLT Powerboost 4x2 verus 4x4

[BogeyPro]

I special ordered the F-150 XLT Powerboost back in September, with all the best options for towing. Initially, the order was for a 4x2, as I was coveting the higher payload, slightly better gas mileage, and being almost us$5000 cheaper.

Then five days later, I changed my mind and changed the order to a 4x4 instead, because of the "you don't need 4x4 for towing...until you do" logic.

Well, the Ford dealer did not catch the change in the order, and so guess what? The 4x2 was built and it arrived on the lot this week!

The 4x4 is going into production in late January, for a February delivery, so that was ordered also, no stopping that one.

I'm not on the hook for two trucks, but I do have the rare opportunity to revisit this choice again.

The confirmed payload on the 4x2 (calculated by subtracting the GVWR of the truck 7350 lbs minus the shipping weight of 5066 lbs) for 2284 lbs, that's pretty sweet.

We can't confirm the payload for the 4x4, but we estimate around 1900-1950 lbs.

I have a 2022 Globe Trotter 27' FBQ being built right now in JC. My skiing days are behind me, I'm a fair weather golfer dude, and I can't envision myself pulling that Airstream in any kind of snow and ice conditions. In fact, I would go out of my way just to avoid being caught up in that. So yeah, in the winter I would be in Arizona, and spring summer and fall, "chasing 70 degrees"

Which would you choose, the 4x2 or the 4x4, and why? I always love to hear back from this community. Thank you for your feedback.

Dorsey
Seattle, Wa.

[s1000pre]

It isn’t the ice & snow. All you need is a little wet grass or gravel on a slight incline and your 6,800 loaded up trailer will act like an anchor with rear wheel drive. You might get out, and you might not. Or you might leave two huge trenches for the host or campground to fix.

I just traded my 450hp 2019 f150 limited for a 2021 Loaded 3.5 Eco XLT. Went from 1,270 to 1,750 lbs of payload. I will now be below my rated payload. Not by much, but under. Without realizing it, I was about 400lbs. Over with my Limited. With that said, I pulled over 7,000 miles from coast to coast with the overloaded limited and it pulled great! Your power boost with 4x4 will do a fantastic job. I would choose 4x4 over payload. Not sure how many guys will want a Powerboost 4x2 in your future used market.

[Dennis C]

I agree that 4x4 in a tow vehicle has little to do with snow and ice. I won’t tow in those conditions with my 4x4, even with proper winter tires.

I would buy a 4x4 truck, but I also wouldn’t pull a 27 footer with a 1/2 ton truck. Given the fact that you’re committed to doing so, then the additional payload capacity is awfully nice. The 4x2 truck you describe has a payload rating that matches some 3/4 ton trucks.

Ultimately your choice is between a truck that has adequate payload capacity for your rig but may occasionally get stuck in certain conditions, or one that is less likely to get stuck but may be overloaded (or close to it) when towing.

Good luck with your decision. It’s a tough one!

[SilverWind]

My 2016 RAM 2500 4x4 diesel has a payload capacity (on the door sticker) of #2084. The only true indicator of payload capacity is the door sticker that shares tire inflation info etc. Your VIN number is also associated with the correct specs for the truck. Don't rely on internet or brochure specs for exact capacity.

My previous 2012 RAM 1500 2x2 got stuck on a wet grass incline the second trip out. That convinced me to go with 4x4. 4x4 also allows you peace of mind to take advantage of camping off asphalt roads.

[BogeyPro]

Originally Posted by SilverWind

My 2016 RAM 2500 4x4 diesel has a payload capacity (on the door sticker) of #2084. The only true indicator of payload capacity is the door sticker that shares tire inflation info etc. Your VIN number is also associated with the correct specs for the truck. Don't rely on internet or brochure specs for exact capacity.

My previous 2012 RAM 1500 2x2 got stuck on a wet grass incline the second trip out. That convinced me to go with 4x4. 4x4 also allows you peace of mind to take advantage of camping off asphalt roads.

Understood. The GVWR was taken from the sticker on the door, and the shipping weight number was taken off the shipping invoice.

[AppFan]

If it were me, I'd stick with the 4x4 for all the reasons mentioned.

Question about capacities. What's the max tongue weight for the 150? I believe the GT will check in north of 800lbs on the tongue.

[Dennis C]

I would imagine the F150 will have plenty of tongue weight capacity when a weight distribution hitch is used. Payload is typically the limiting factor with 1/2 trucks.

[BogeyPro]

From the Ford Towing Guide: Using a Weight Distribution Hitch, the max tongue load capacity is 1400 lbs.

[SlowPokePete]

One other thing is that a 4x4 will likely be more desirable for resale.

SPP

[Bobbo]

Normally, I would say the 4x4 for the reason you gave. However, with a 27' Airstream, no 1/2 ton is sufficient, so go with the most payload you can to reduce as much as possible how much you are overloaded. If you get stuck, tow trucks CAN be called.

[TouringDan]

I have a 2wd 2008 Tundra. I wanted 2wd for the cost savings, reduced complexity and maintenance, increased fuel economy and increased payload. I have never been stuck towing our 66 Tradewind and we primarily boondock. I do carry a set of chains with me just in case, but I have never needed to use them.

Dan

[CRH]

I have both a 2wd and a 4wd truck that I tow the AS with. Never been stuck with the 2wd, but I am very mindful of where I go with it. There's no way I would buy a new pickup and not get 4WD.

[Bill M.]

If the 4 WD drive really has 1900 lbs of payload it looks like that ought to be fine. My 2500 only has 2100 lbs. If you know you are going to load it up then maybe the 2 wd. I personally like having 4 WD drive on a pickup. I go fishing down dirt roads when not hitched. But I do not really "need" it. Does the 2 WD sit lower? Does it drive or ride better? It has been a long time since I have owned a 2 WD drive truck. I doubt if there will be much maintaintence cost difference. Maybe changing the fluid in a second differential. Maybe some u joints.

[dznf0g]

Originally Posted by Bobbo

Normally, I would say the 4x4 for the reason you gave. However, with a 27' Airstream, no 1/2 ton is sufficient, so go with the most payload you can to reduce as much as possible how much you are overloaded. If you get stuck, tow trucks CAN be called.

This just simply isn't true! You may have to order one, but they are available. My 1500 has 2034# payload, handles a 30' exceptionally well.

[kscherzi]

Having towed my 27FB with a 2017 F150 Ecoboost to Alaska and through most states west of the Mississippi I've only used 4wd twice when towing. Once in Alaska exiting a steep short grassy driveway in Alaska, though I could have probably just backed up and hit it with more speed. The second time backing the trailer its last ten feet into a reverse uphill campsite that was gravelly.

My truck has an elocker and both times I forgot to try using that instead, but it probably would have worked too.

I do use the 4WD when unhitched to explore old mines up riverbeds and places not normally travelled.

As far as payload my truck has 1650 lbs that works fine for me, but I don't carry much stuff, or heavy stuff, in the bed.

Edit: Can also confirm that 4WD adds complexity. Had a $1,100 problem where it started randomly trying to engage the front wheel 4WD splines without synchronizing wheel rotation rate during a long road trip. Made a scary loud grinding noise. Was laid up in Duluth for a week while a Ford dealership fixed the problem. Fortunately had purchased the extended warranty.

[gypsydad]

Couple of comments; 4x4 without hesitation...you nailed it: you only need 4x4 when you need it! And that can be as harmless a muddy or wet surface in a campground while parking, a freak snow or rain storm, or camping in the desert on sand or dirt...you will be happy when you have it for sure. Second comment; you should weigh your TV and also your tongue; My 28' FC comes in actual weight from a truck scale at 1150#; your 27' likely will be over the "spec" weight for sure.

Pay attention to the max payload listed on the sticker on the doorjamb for actual payload on your TV...you may be surprised; the trim levels can take you up beyond the specs, typically. I agree with earlier post; would not be towing a 27' or larger with a F150...bigger TV gives you more control, power, braking, and payload capacity, all of which will help avoid white knuckle experiences when towing..

[uncle_bob]

Hi

The door stickers should give you the payload number for the truck. There should be no need to do any math. If they don't then there is a sticker missing .....

Bob

[AbstractLogc]

In this section of the forum: "Are They Meaningless? Tow Limits, Payload and Axle Load?" Page 15 their is a link to an article about the important things to consider for a 1/2 ton truck as TV. Not exactly pertinent to your question but I think it will be helpful.

[dnsapp]

I have the Ford F-150 4X2 with the total tow package and the eco boost. It has the 36 gallon tank and the locking positive traction 4:10 rear end. I tow my 2018 FC FB without any issues from coast to coast. I’ve never had any issues. I was on a grassy area once, switched in the locking rear end and went right on. I got the 20 inch rims with the super crew. The only issue with the truck since bought it new was the navigation kinda went haywire and had to be reprogrammed. Don’t let the dealer sell you one of those extended warranties. I bought one. The dealer said you will never know when the Ford warranty runs out and the extended warranty kicks in. Well that’s a lie. The extended warranty folks always seem to find something in the fine print to say what ever is wrong is not covered under the extended warranty. The dealer said that everything is covered but anything that has to do with a computer or a chip come to find out is not covered. I went back to the dealer and of course the denied they said it and the salesman was long gone.

[BogeyPro]

Originally Posted by gypsydad

Couple of comments; 4x4 without hesitation...you nailed it: you only need 4x4 when you need it! And that can be as harmless a muddy or wet surface in a campground while parking, a freak snow or rain storm, or camping in the desert on sand or dirt...you will be happy when you have it for sure. Second comment; you should weigh your TV and also your tongue; My 28' FC comes in actual weight from a truck scale at 1150#; your 27' likely will be over the "spec" weight for sure.

Pay attention to the max payload listed on the sticker on the doorjamb for actual payload on your TV...you may be surprised; the trim levels can take you up beyond the specs, typically. I agree with earlier post; would not be towing a 27' or larger with a F150...bigger TV gives you more control, power, braking, and payload capacity, all of which will help avoid white knuckle experiences when towing..

Yes, GypsyDad, duly noted, and thank you. I believe you sent me some pictures of your friend's new Powerboost a while back.

I would hope this thread does not go down that path of getting a bigger truck, it's too late for that. I already ordered the F-150 and there's no turning back now. That said, I am aware of these concerns and I am going into this with both eyes wide open. Thank you for your concern.