Would you order XLT 4X4 without Locking Rear Differential

[Mikknj]

Hi all,
I was reviewing my order ( placed in mid July ) for an XLT 4X4. While looking at the build configurator I noticed locking rear differential as an option for $420. Then I poked myself and said, what the heck did I do? For that added cost why not? Originally I was trying to keep the costs down and only added the technology package... Got a price I thought was in my budget and submitted the order. But what a penny foolish mistake. I called the dealer today and had him add it to my order. I don't know if I will lose my place in line but I have no regrets. It sounded like no big deal, and did not change my trim level so - Fingers crossed. I had one of the first 1,500 orders in the system so I thought I might be first in line. But, I'm happy now.. If I don't get scheduled for another month I can save up the cash for the locker...

Did anyone else on the forum build an XLT without the Electronic locker? And why?

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[P. Parker]

First of all, I don’t feel that you are foolish for adding electronic to your order. With this I don’t know your particular use case but for me … I wouldn’t order a truck without one if it was available. For me, my truck has to do truck things. Critical options for me are 4x4, locking rear differential, both high and low range transfer case (believe it or not this is a dealbreaker in low trim models of Chevy trucks, in my opinion) spray-in Berliner. The tow package with brake controller. this is not a factor of the Ford ranger but lack of front recovery hooks would be a dealbreaker. Of course, some of the niceties would be heated seats and heated steering wheels, but they are not critical. Hands-free calling is at the top of my list but every other tech feature I could take it or leave it. It’s just a few of my thoughts but you are no fool to add a locking diff to your order.

 

[Mikknj]

First of all, I don’t feel that you are foolish for adding electronic to your order. With this I don’t know your particular use case but for me … I wouldn’t order a truck without one if it was available. For me, my truck has to do truck things. Critical options for me are 4x4, locking rear differential, both high and low range transfer case (believe it or not this is a dealbreaker in low trim models of Chevy trucks, in my opinion) spray-in Berliner. The tow package with brake controller. this is not a factor of the Ford ranger but lack of front recovery hooks would be a dealbreaker. Of course, some of the niceties would be heated seats and heated steering wheels, but they are not critical. Hands-free calling is at the top of my list but every other tech feature I could take it or leave it. It’s just a few of my thoughts but you are no fool to add a locking diff to your order.

I was trying to convey that the foolish decision was me omitting the locking differential. Even for sake of resale, looking back why didn't I select it in the first place for $420. That's really a great deal. I was thinking I don't offroad - much, almost never. The 4x4 is for the snow. I'm, still curious if others would order a 4x4 without the locker ( if they did I'd suggest they take a second look and add it into their order )

 

[P. Parker]

I fully understand my use 4x4 is mainly for snow also with a mix of soft muddy roads! Since you can order a locking rear Diff with off-road package it’s a no brainer. 4x4 is realistically only 2 drive wheels, the locking rear diff makes it a 3x4. Here in Canada inclement weather is always present and can roll in at anytime and northern road turn to not 6” of soup within minutes. With my
F150 I use the feature all the time, mostly for towing ie starting on an incline in less than ideal traction situation. Again your ymmv but my truck needs to truck things with my economy car can’t. Tow, haul, carry family the worst conditions and such.

Now, for resale values or resell them in general, I think a large portion of people buying rangers will get the locking diff so so not getting it, will make you less competitive in the resale market.

Again, I don’t know your situation, you may live in an area where you only get snow once in a while but here winter and winter conditions are a nine month affair, lol I’m contemplating those heated seats again and heated steering wheel.

All manufactures play package contents force my next higher package to get that all elusive heated steering wheel. At least locking Diff is a standalone package.

 

[goalieThreeOne]

Traction control systems do a pretty decent job of controlling wheel spin these days so unless you were going into heavy mud I don’t think you’d miss it too much. I’ve got along fine with my FWD Explorer “Intelligent 4WD”. That being said, for that price if it’s available, it’s a no brainer to me. Even if you only used it once to get yourself out of a situation, you’ll be grateful you got it.

 

[Gator21]

I opted for the locker, but I did something this time that I honestly didn’t think I’d ever do by ordering a 2wd truck. First off I live in Florida so no snow. I realized with my past F150 and my current Wrangler I haven’t needed 4x4 except on a sketchy mountain in NC on vacation. My “off road” mainly consists of forest service roads and WMA lands which haven’t required 4x4 so far and I have zero desire to go searching for mud or whatever else. I just want to use my vehicle to get closer to the wild and then hike in from there.

As a just in case item I decided to get the locker option. Figured it might help me if I get slightly stuck on one of those forest service roads, but without the several thousands of dollars wasted on 4x4 option, maintenance costs, higher insurance, fuel penalty, etc. So I was happy that Ford allowed it as a stand-alone option.

 

[TVRangerSTX]

Never even thought of adding it. I never had it on 4 previous Rangers, and live in NE PA with some good snow from time to time, I still don't want or need it. I put the money into the bedliner. That I want and need. Also not one of those aficionados of going off road. That's what the dirt bike is for. So NO LOCKER FOR YOU!.

 

[fordtrks4ever]

Since the non Raptor Rangers do not come with 4A I would not be without a locking rear diff.
For extra traction insurance. I usually order my trucks with the FX4 package anyway and it is included.
Just my opinion.

 

[Scooter]

Gator21, you have me thinking all I need is a 2wd truck with a locker. I have a 4G 2.3L standard tranny with no locker. Always wished I had the locker to inspire a little bit of confidence. The one wheel drive holds you back form exploring a wee bit more.

 

[jedadiah]

I ordered a 4x2 with a locker. For $420, why not?

 

[coldconfession13]

I got it just in case. Never know. Not sure if I'll ever use it and if I do then I would be glad that I did.

 

[CACTUSGREYFX4]

I have used mine once in my current vehicle...stuck in 4 foot snow drift....4 low, traction control off, diff locked....took me about 30 seconds to get out.....going to come standard in my Lariat FX4 package.

 

[Deleted member 6764]

Gator21, you have me thinking all I need is a 2wd truck with a locker. I have a 4G 2.3L standard tranny with no locker. Always wished I had the locker to inspire a little bit of confidence. The one wheel drive holds you back form exploring a wee bit more.

My thoughts exactly, XLT 4x2 with the locker is what I ordered.

 

[twintwo3]

I think you made the right choice, you don't need one until you do. A locking rear diff, when you need it, can save the day.

 

[btsmith52]

There are a lot of reasons to buy a 4x4, but for some of us it's just because 2wd trucks suck. It takes so little to get one stuck, that it makes sense to add 4x4 to an otherwise standard truck. Just adding 4x4 lets you navigate snow pretty well, pull up slick boat ramps, handle moderately muddy dirt roads, and deal with trailer towing in fields and such. If you are going on trails and rock climbing, or anything extreme - then the locker certainly makes sense. Otherwise that money will buy you a bedliner, running boards, or a tonneau cover. Also, the locker without 4wd is a valid way to mitigate the suckiness of standard 2wd, but it doesn't serve well in snow driving.

I did buy a 4x4 XLT without a locker ('22 Ranger) because I had 17 years with an F150 and never needed it, although I needed the 4x4 a number of times.

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