Question:

> I have special ordered a 1998 SOHC Explorer Sport, and based the > decision to get the 4×2 on some information I received from the dealer. > Maybe someone could help me to verify this information: > First, would a limited slip 4×2 perform better than a 4×4 on icy roads?

I wouldn’t think so.  In terms of stopping maybe, but accelerating definetly not. > And second, would the gas mileage be noticeably better with a limited > slip 4×2 than with a 4×4?  

In this case I think the 4×2 with or without the limited slip would give you better gas mileage.  The weight of the front differential, transfer case and driveshaft in the 4×4 model would give you worse gas mileage. Just my .02 cents. Dan > Thanks, > Brian

– Dan Benoit                                

Response:

I have special ordered a 1998 SOHC Explorer Sport, and based the decision to get the 4×2 on some information I received from the dealer. Maybe someone could help me to verify this information: First, would a limited slip 4×2 perform better than a 4×4 on icy roads? And second, would the gas mileage be noticeably better with a limited slip 4×2 than with a 4×4?   Thanks, Brian

Response:

> I have special ordered a 1998 SOHC Explorer Sport, and based the > decision to get the 4×2 on some information I received from the dealer. > Maybe someone could help me to verify this information: > First, would a limited slip 4×2 perform better than a 4×4 on icy roads? > And second, would the gas mileage be noticeably better with a limited > slip 4×2 than with a 4×4? > Thanks, > Brian

Brian, Limited slip 2WD will not perform better on icy roads than 4WD. Gas mileage with limited slip 2WD would be no different than with 4WD. Why not just get 4WD with limited slip?  A bit more expensive, but you’d have the best of both worlds.  You have to be careful about what salesmen tell you.  Their interest is to maximize their income, by whatever means necessary.  Your interest trails theirs by a significant margin. I hope this helps. — Cheers, Steve 82 Z28 96 K1500 The opinions expressed here are mine alone and do not represent those of my employer or any one else.

Response: