I prefer 2WD trucks. Less to go wrong and much cheaper to buy and maintain. With a bit of knowledge and experience your can do everything a 4wd willl do with a 2WD. Great video
@@Arctic_Adjuster Back when men were men and trucks were trucks everyone got around just fine in there 2WDs. It’s okay. Justify your 4wd somewhere else. They have a use. But it’s not necessary
What I'm saying is I can drive from WA to Texas and go a bunch of places on the way for $641 and sleep in the back. In a 4WD the cost is at-least 750 probably 850. and in a full size pickup closer to 1200 to 1500. There is no way to do this with a 4WD. You can't. You don't have the money to do it period. So yes a 2WD can do more, it goes further for less.
Your other reply is cut off and hidden but I will try to say regardless. An electric vehicle is on a schedule, if I'm in a gas vehicle there is no scheduling and fueling up takes 5mins or less. It's a non event. You also can take a more direct path especially with a high MPG vehicle because it has to take less stops so that's another factor. A trailer on an electric vehicle reduces the range of the electric vehicle even more. I will use my ranger as a modular stealth sleeper maybe not permanently but it is something I want to do with it. Right now I'm building some extended wood walls for firewood and debris hauling and it is one of the cheapest vehicles to do so with, it's cheaper than the VW rabbit because the bed is significantly bigger. I don't understand why people always tell me VW Rabbit maybe because its the only way to one up me talking about the ranger because to me it's not even comparable without a bed close to 6ft long which is waaaay more useful for hauling stuff that humans do, but upgrading to a full size pickup for some one who isn't constantly doing contractor type jobs isn't always worth the cost. For me it wasn't so I switched from a 75 350 gmc to the Ranger.
Your comparison of your big truck vs your Ranger isn’t an even comparison. Your tire contact patch is just slightly larger on your F350 but the weight of the truck is probably double. I agree 100% with the rest of your video. Great content
I'm extremely happy to hear this I have a two-wheel drive Toyota tundra 2006, i love my truck and didn't want to get a new truck, I'm going to be living in Colorado springs, can I have a buddy that swears I need to get a different truck because I need four-wheel drive for the snow, but as i read more into it, putting snow tires in the rear and adding weight definitely help!!! Even people say its better then a 4wd truck. That is extremely pleasing to hear.
I live in Colorado Springs. You aren’t getting around in a 2wd truck when we get hit with the bad storms; too many hills. However, most of the time you’ll be fine.
Good stuff Chad. I don't know if the 4WD affects the big truck operating in 2WD, but I think you are spot when you mention weight. In my experience, the weight of trucks like an F-250/350, or 2500/3500, especially with the added weight of a diesel, causes the issue. And man, if it's a dually...be prepared to spin! I have seen a guy in a beautiful, new Ram 3500 4WD dually get "stuck" on wet grass and slight incline. He eventually got up the hill, but not without tearing up a lot of grass, and nearly having a full temper meltdown!
Thanks, Chris! I've seen that too with a dually. Which - seems counter to what you would think, right? It seems like more tires should equal more traction. But I think the additional width of two tires wide gives it more flotation than dig?
Growing up, we owned a 1987 Chevy S10, with a standard transmission, and my dad would rather drive his 1979 K5 Blazer than to drive the S10 because the Blazer had 4 wheel drive. Despite the fact he was really good driving a stick. I guess he never felt as confident on the road during the winter driving it. 😊 I had a 1995 S10 with an automatic, but didn't drive it very much during the winter. I preferred my front wheel drive 1993 Pontiac Grand Am. That's pretty much my experience driving on winter roads, but growing up here in the south, we didn't have to worry too much about it. But we usually did get one big storm every winter. ❄️❄️❄️❄️ Thanks for sharing, Chad!
Absolutely. I live in Maine and have driven a 2wd Dakota in 24" snowstorm to work. Good studded tires, some weight directly over the axle, and driving safely as per road conditions will get you basically anywhere.
Good Morning Sir, YES WE CAN ( I had a Dodge Ram Van B 350 1984 ) and It was doing very good in winter time but I had some tricks ( very good winter tire, heavy in the back for adding weight on the rear diffenrencial ) 👌👍😇💪 2 wdr have a better fuel effenciency than a 4 wdr 🧐👍👍 I often start on 2nd gear on ice 🧐👍👍Keep Warm Sir Cheers 😇👌🍻
I'm in Idaho, and have been driving my 87 Ranger in the winter...its a bare base model, 2WD with the 2.9L V6. Does fine in the snow/ice...just need to have some weight in the bed, otherwise because its such a light weight truck it don't wanna go anywhere LOL. Don't have snow tires, apparently none of the damn tire shops think people need 14" tires anymore. 4WD might get you moving but it isn't going to do anything to help you stop because you were going faster than you should have been in the first place....the 4WDs and AWDs are the first ones in the ditches every time it snows. We had a foot of snow about a month ago, and the only problem spots were in my own driveway, the roads are pretty well cleared off or at least packed down....I just start off in 2nd gear when its slick to keep from spinning the tires as easily. The problem with my driveway is on the exit of the circle drive is a slight incline, no big deal until the damn snow plow comes by and throws all the snow into my driveway....so I just go out the other side so I don't have to try and go through the snow plus the snow from the plow and up the hill LOL.
I lived in northern utah for 3 years with a 2wd f150. It was fine. I had to drive up the pass to mountain green for work. Cant remember missing a day. Main roads are always plowed.
Last week we got 9 inches of snow in Southeast Ohio level 3 snow emergency I ran around playing in the snow 90% of the time with just my electronic Locker that was with no weight in the bed my truck is 4x4 but playing in two-wheel drive is funner that's when I realized if I had a two-wheel drive truck with an E locker and weight in the bed I could go almost anywhere I needed. but if u got an open diff its so much harder a posi track or E locker makes all the difference in the world. Great video brother
I have an 87 long bed Ranger 2 wheel drive 5 speed with the 2.9L V6...love driving it regardless of the weather....the only trouble is, being a bare bones basic model its so light weight I gotta put some weight in the bed so it'll get enough traction in the snow/ice LOL....other than that it does great.
Did fine with 2wd and all seasons somehow. Id say you can do well with just being a good driver having all seasons with good snow rating and 200-300 bounds of weight over rear axle.
I have always had 2-wheel drive we don't get much snow in west Tenn but when we do, they do not grade the roads to often I have always made it fine driving in snow we mostly get ice then we stay home.
Heyhey Chad when we lived in Ohio near you we always had 2WD vehicles and we have had a few here in Alaaka also. Many people here drive 2WD cars and trucks. But almost all of them run Blizzak tires. So it can be done. Take care my friend
Absolutely. I can’t imagine trying to drive this little truck around with my summer tires on during a snow. The winter tires make a huge difference. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
@@PurpleCollarLife I live in one of the U.P. snowbelts and have been driving a Focus with winter tires on it for 12 winters now. The tires make most of the difference. Having AWD or 4WD is gravy. I'm really glad you emphasize your use of winter tires in your video.
Thanks! I'm comfortable in the snow in this little truck, even though it's only 2WD. I have the studded winter tires and usually some sand bags in the bed for weight. It's all the OTHER drivers that I worry about. :)
Tires and weight in the back definitely make a difference! I had an ancient Chevy van with studded tires for snow, id put on. With two bus wheels and tires in the back, that thing was phenomenal in snow!
Thanks! Just be careful about that loose weight in the back. I've seen cinder blocks fly up and through the back of the truck bed/cab when the truck impacts something. That's a little scary!
The main difference between your big and small truck in snow is the tires. That's why it works better than big truck on 2wd. Use the same tires on both and then you can compare apples to apples. Ps! I love your clean Ranger!
While they're not exactly the same brand - the tires I use on the big F350 are also metal studded winter tires. But you're right - since they're not exactly the same - it's hard to compare. Thanks for watching! And thanks for the compliment on my daily driver Ranger. That's a great little truck.
Had the exact truck years ago, I miss it! I spent the $ and put a posi rear in it. Then snow tires. The posi was wasted $ cuz the snow tires and weight in rear made 2x more difference than the rear diff. Younger people also seem to have completely forgotten bout snow chains too. At least once a year I put them on out of boredom just to see what I can climb in 2wd. I even have a zip tie set that can work in a pinch.
I've never put chains on a vehicle. I don't think it's permitted around here. But I have lots of experience putting chains on farm tractors and garden tractors. :) Chains on those make a HUGE difference in the snow and mud.
2WD is way more fun in the snow lol. It makes me more alert and prepared. My Ram does have 4x4 but I hardly touch it. My first vehicle was a 2WD F150 and that had 50% worn all season street tires with 240lbs weight in the back and it barely struggled. Like you said about shifting early, my my F150 was auto so I'd put in in gear #2 and then drive.
Less torque in a higher gear at a lower RPM certainly helps keep traction. I've found that a 2WD does much better in 2WD than a 4x4 does in 2WD. I don't know if it's all that additional weight in the front of a 4x4?
I'm also a victim of the, "Lake Erie Snow Machine" and I absolutely ALWAYS buy 4x4. A 2WD isn't a chance I'd take on the freeway going to work. Smart using studded tires. I run K02s on my trucks and have no issues with 4x4.
I certainly wouldn't want to rely on a 2WD truck as my only option. I know there are people that do it - and do fine. But like you - when the snow machine turns on, I'd rather be in the 4x4. :)
I should have stated that I drive a 2 wheel drive full size chevy truck. I put about 300lbs over the rear wheels and have dedicated snow tires for winter driving. I learned many years ago to use my tranny on slippery roads. Easy on the brakes.
I have heard both sides of the debate on this - shifting down into a lower gear using the transmission to decrease speed/maintain a slow speed, and shifting into neutral for the brakes. It's an interesting debate for sure.
Drove an ‘88 Ranger 2wd, 5spd for 6 winters in New England. No problems at all. One really snowy winter, I didn’t put my 4x4 Silverado into 4x4 the whole time. 4x4 under steer is pretty scary. I’d rather have controlled over steer with a manual any day.
The understeer vs oversteer and difference between handling in a 2WD truck (RWD) vs a 4X4 truck is a great point! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
Thanks for watching! I certainly recommend winter tires if you're in a cold weather climate with snow/ice/sleet. Especially with the torque you'll get in that 5.0 V8! It does help to use a higher gear (less torque) when accelerating if possible, so that your tires don't lose grip as easily. And shifting down with the transmission on slick roads is avoided. Here's a video I did about winter tire advantages: th-cam.com/video/mdZm95bzJsc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JTyqJOu6q4RkRVRN
That's a great question. I really like dedicated winter tires, with the 3 peak rating. Around here, metal studs are permitted, and make a big difference. But if you don't want to do the studs or can't use them where you live, I've been really impressed with Bridgestone Blizzak tires. I made a video about them: th-cam.com/video/M4RrSC6TxiQ/w-d-xo.html
You never mentioned what types of rear differentials were in the two trucks. It looked like the four-wheel drive truck had an open differential and that the ranger had a limited slip. That's very important to know because comparing the two in slippery conditions is a very unfair comparison. And by the way, the ranger that year came with either an open differential or a limited slip and again there is a huge difference. That thing would be practically worthless with an open differential. With all your experience you should have known or at least mentioned it
The F350 has a limited slip 3:73 differential. The Ranger has an open differential, with electronic traction control (which does REALLY help). Great question.
Yeah I found open differential dang near useless in the snow but an electronic Locker or a posi Trac makes all the difference in the world if you have a two-wheel drive with an E Locker or a posi Trac and some weight you can go dang there anywhere you need to but open differential done
Yes - I believe all these 5 speed Rangers came with an open differential. But - the 2010 and 2011 (and maybe other years of this generation) do have the traction control, which helps.
Having a Fiat 126p (engine and rear-wheel drive), in winter I often started in second gear. On the other hand, when driving front-wheel drive cars with a manual gearbox (90% of cars in Europe) there was usually understeer, so the torque delivery was not that dangerous (except in a corner) - I remember once, when I was young, I lost the brakes in an old sedan (on luckily I noticed it) and I reached home driving without brakes (and driving through a large city) for about 50 km. With a manual gearbox you can do wonders (slide into a corner with half-clutch or stop completely without the brakes), but with age the left leg becomes more and more lazy ;-)
@ ok thanks I bought a 2010 ranger super cab sport it’s 2wd I live in Canada so we get snow I have a 3 inch lift and a set of winter approved all terrain s my truck also has a open diff and tractoin control how do u think it will perform
Sure, a fuel injected vehicle will start in Sub-Zero weather even if it has sat for a while, but that doesn't mean that it should be started when it's that cold out. You should definitely have it plugged in anytime. The temperature is below 10° above zero, otherwise it's just very hard on the engine
That’s interesting. I’ve had engine heaters on my diesel trucks - but never had a gas engine truck that was equipped with one. Are you using an aftermarket engine heater to plug in?
@@PurpleCollarLife most vehicles they are available aftermarket or as an oem accessory, but my Ford Ranger actually come from the factory in Montana with a two block heaters and a battery heater. My Honda CRV also sold in Montana came with a block heater
you have some very good points and yes, you can get away with a 2wd, I personally have a same year Ranger ext cab FX4 off road 5 spd manual. Likewise I get away with being in 2wd in that truck, but I wanted the 4x4 just for the extra peace of mind, so if needed it I have it and I will say it has come in handy on quite a few occasions, like at the boat launch and blizzard white knuckle driving, honestly now I think about it 4x4 is a necessity for me as I very frequently have to use it just to get out my damn driveway lol.
@PurpleCollarLife honestly only problem is they are bad on bear asphalt and if you have a manual easy on the gas because they have so much grip you can fry a clutch easy
Yes, I grew up in the snow belt and had that exact truck for 9 years. Shirt box regular cab 5 speed ranger. You can drive in snow up to a point (6” or less”) and have to do it just so, however, people watching this. This does NOT mean you can drive on the sand on a beach.
With lockers and sand tires that are big enough and tall enough, you can drive on the sand! You have to use a locker and specialty tires just for the sand. Then you take the rear tires off before driving it on the road.
@@Zach-sg5uuI see this every time I go to the beach. Unless that sand is hard packed from being wet, 2 wheel drive anything will not make it on the beach. If you swear by this, I need to see a video
@@PurpleCollarLifeyou be afraid to try putting weight on the tired that drive you huh ur special just don't use an old engine block for weight with out securing it that could shift but your thought process is bas awkward
They're amazing and reliable little trucks! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Every comment, click of the "like" button, and subscriber helps our small channel grow.
While i was in Alaska one thing i hate is 4x4 trucks who likes to tailgate and drive fast in a sketchy winter condition. go figure why you only see 4x4 trucks and SUV in the ditch all the time.
Yes - I see that often too. People think that because their truck has 4-wheel drive, they can go flying down the road at normal speeds even in snow and slush. I think that most of the time they learn that's not true, eventually.
Maybe you should get a ranger with a longer cab and cruise control, seems like that would solve a lot of issues but a 4cyl manual as well. Hard to find I know but might be worth the change. I think they come with those specs anyway. Might not be to hard to ad cruise control as well but then you would still have the seat issue.
Drove my 2wd nissan hardbody for 15 years in Saskatchewan, You can do it if you prepare but most people dont wanna do the extra effort. Need good snow tires or studded snow tires an id put 300-700lbs in the bed an that truck could go anywhere. Kinda annoys me now that people think you cant. All trucks were 2wd until late 80s mostly anyway
Thanks for watching! I agree that these 2WD trucks can be capable as long as you're prepared and careful. We do use the metal studded winter tires, and I typically have sand-bags in the bed for extra weight. But, like I mentioned in the video, when it's really bad - I prefer to drive the F350 4X4. The bigger size feels safer from other drivers on the roads. th-cam.com/video/y3LLMYqD9eg/w-d-xo.html
I prefer 2WD trucks. Less to go wrong and much cheaper to buy and maintain. With a bit of knowledge and experience your can do everything a 4wd willl do with a 2WD. Great video
You can actually do more, as in drive a lot further.
@@Arctic_Adjuster Back when men were men and trucks were trucks everyone got around just fine in there 2WDs. It’s okay. Justify your 4wd somewhere else.
They have a use. But it’s not necessary
What I'm saying is I can drive from WA to Texas and go a bunch of places on the way for $641 and sleep in the back. In a 4WD the cost is at-least 750 probably 850. and in a full size pickup closer to 1200 to 1500. There is no way to do this with a 4WD. You can't. You don't have the money to do it period. So yes a 2WD can do more, it goes further for less.
@@Arctic_Adjuster How is that related at all?
Your other reply is cut off and hidden but I will try to say regardless. An electric vehicle is on a schedule, if I'm in a gas vehicle there is no scheduling and fueling up takes 5mins or less. It's a non event. You also can take a more direct path especially with a high MPG vehicle because it has to take less stops so that's another factor. A trailer on an electric vehicle reduces the range of the electric vehicle even more. I will use my ranger as a modular stealth sleeper maybe not permanently but it is something I want to do with it. Right now I'm building some extended wood walls for firewood and debris hauling and it is one of the cheapest vehicles to do so with, it's cheaper than the VW rabbit because the bed is significantly bigger. I don't understand why people always tell me VW Rabbit maybe because its the only way to one up me talking about the ranger because to me it's not even comparable without a bed close to 6ft long which is waaaay more useful for hauling stuff that humans do, but upgrading to a full size pickup for some one who isn't constantly doing contractor type jobs isn't always worth the cost. For me it wasn't so I switched from a 75 350 gmc to the Ranger.
Your comparison of your big truck vs your Ranger isn’t an even comparison. Your tire contact patch is just slightly larger on your F350 but the weight of the truck is probably double. I agree 100% with the rest of your video. Great content
I'm extremely happy to hear this I have a two-wheel drive Toyota tundra 2006, i love my truck and didn't want to get a new truck, I'm going to be living in Colorado springs, can I have a buddy that swears I need to get a different truck because I need four-wheel drive for the snow, but as i read more into it, putting snow tires in the rear and adding weight definitely help!!! Even people say its better then a 4wd truck. That is extremely pleasing to hear.
I live in Colorado Springs. You aren’t getting around in a 2wd truck when we get hit with the bad storms; too many hills. However, most of the time you’ll be fine.
Lovely Ranger! I have been looking for a video of a ranger in snow and this is perfect! Much appreciated
Thanks for watching! I am glad you found the video helpful.
Good stuff Chad. I don't know if the 4WD affects the big truck operating in 2WD, but I think you are spot when you mention weight. In my experience, the weight of trucks like an F-250/350, or 2500/3500, especially with the added weight of a diesel, causes the issue. And man, if it's a dually...be prepared to spin! I have seen a guy in a beautiful, new Ram 3500 4WD dually get "stuck" on wet grass and slight incline. He eventually got up the hill, but not without tearing up a lot of grass, and nearly having a full temper meltdown!
Thanks, Chris! I've seen that too with a dually. Which - seems counter to what you would think, right? It seems like more tires should equal more traction. But I think the additional width of two tires wide gives it more flotation than dig?
Nice video awesome ranger
Thanks! It's a great little truck.
Growing up, we owned a 1987 Chevy S10, with a standard transmission, and my dad would rather drive his 1979 K5 Blazer than to drive the S10 because the Blazer had 4 wheel drive. Despite the fact he was really good driving a stick. I guess he never felt as confident on the road during the winter driving it. 😊 I had a 1995 S10 with an automatic, but didn't drive it very much during the winter. I preferred my front wheel drive 1993 Pontiac Grand Am. That's pretty much my experience driving on winter roads, but growing up here in the south, we didn't have to worry too much about it. But we usually did get one big storm every winter. ❄️❄️❄️❄️ Thanks for sharing, Chad!
Absolutely. I live in Maine and have driven a 2wd Dakota in 24" snowstorm to work. Good studded tires, some weight directly over the axle, and driving safely as per road conditions will get you basically anywhere.
Thanks for watching!
Good Morning Sir, YES WE CAN ( I had a Dodge Ram Van B 350 1984 ) and It was doing very good in winter time but I had some tricks ( very good winter tire, heavy in the back for adding weight on the rear diffenrencial ) 👌👍😇💪 2 wdr have a better fuel effenciency than a 4 wdr 🧐👍👍 I often start on 2nd gear on ice 🧐👍👍Keep Warm Sir Cheers 😇👌🍻
Thanks @RCAFpolarexpress - those are all great tips!
@@PurpleCollarLife 👍👍😇😇👌👌🍻🍻
I'm in Idaho, and have been driving my 87 Ranger in the winter...its a bare base model, 2WD with the 2.9L V6. Does fine in the snow/ice...just need to have some weight in the bed, otherwise because its such a light weight truck it don't wanna go anywhere LOL. Don't have snow tires, apparently none of the damn tire shops think people need 14" tires anymore.
4WD might get you moving but it isn't going to do anything to help you stop because you were going faster than you should have been in the first place....the 4WDs and AWDs are the first ones in the ditches every time it snows.
We had a foot of snow about a month ago, and the only problem spots were in my own driveway, the roads are pretty well cleared off or at least packed down....I just start off in 2nd gear when its slick to keep from spinning the tires as easily. The problem with my driveway is on the exit of the circle drive is a slight incline, no big deal until the damn snow plow comes by and throws all the snow into my driveway....so I just go out the other side so I don't have to try and go through the snow plus the snow from the plow and up the hill LOL.
I lived in northern utah for 3 years with a 2wd f150. It was fine. I had to drive up the pass to mountain green for work. Cant remember missing a day. Main roads are always plowed.
That's awesome! Did you ever have to run chains on it?
Just bought ford f150 RWD and it's useless in just 1inch snow 🤦🏽. I guess I have to get studs
Last week we got 9 inches of snow in Southeast Ohio level 3 snow emergency I ran around playing in the snow 90% of the time with just my electronic Locker that was with no weight in the bed my truck is 4x4 but playing in two-wheel drive is funner that's when I realized if I had a two-wheel drive truck with an E locker and weight in the bed I could go almost anywhere I needed. but if u got an open diff its so much harder a posi track or E locker makes all the difference in the world. Great video brother
It's definitely fun to play in the snow with 2WD!
My 2nd pick up was a 87 ranger bought new 2 wheel drive. I kept it 12 years drove in all kinds of conditions. Great truck wish I still had it.
That certainly would be a great truck to still have!
I have an 87 long bed Ranger 2 wheel drive 5 speed with the 2.9L V6...love driving it regardless of the weather....the only trouble is, being a bare bones basic model its so light weight I gotta put some weight in the bed so it'll get enough traction in the snow/ice LOL....other than that it does great.
@wildbill23c mine was a stx short bed cab was bigger with the jump seats. Also 2.9 leaked oil valve covers had good power for that time. 5 speed also.
Did fine with 2wd and all seasons somehow. Id say you can do well with just being a good driver having all seasons with good snow rating and 200-300 bounds of weight over rear axle.
I have always had 2-wheel drive we don't get much snow in west Tenn but when we do, they do not grade the roads to often I have always made it fine driving in snow we mostly get ice then we stay home.
Thanks for watching!
Heyhey Chad when we lived in Ohio near you we always had 2WD vehicles and we have had a few here in Alaaka also. Many people here drive 2WD cars and trucks. But almost all of them run Blizzak tires. So it can be done. Take care my friend
Winter tires make a big difference
Absolutely. I can’t imagine trying to drive this little truck around with my summer tires on during a snow. The winter tires make a huge difference. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment!
@@PurpleCollarLife I live in one of the U.P. snowbelts and have been driving a Focus with winter tires on it for 12 winters now. The tires make most of the difference. Having AWD or 4WD is gravy. I'm really glad you emphasize your use of winter tires in your video.
What I've found: When it snows, a 2wd truck holds the road much better than a front wheel drive sedan.
Thanks! I'm comfortable in the snow in this little truck, even though it's only 2WD. I have the studded winter tires and usually some sand bags in the bed for weight. It's all the OTHER drivers that I worry about. :)
This makes me feel so lucky to live in Arizona!!
Thanks for watching! I enjoy our seasons. The snow can be fun. :)
Yeah, but you get the snowbirds from up here coming to you in the winter. They can't drive here in the summer! 😂
Manual transmission as well.
Yes!
Tires and weight in the back definitely make a difference! I had an ancient Chevy van with studded tires for snow, id put on. With two bus wheels and tires in the back, that thing was phenomenal in snow!
Thanks! Just be careful about that loose weight in the back. I've seen cinder blocks fly up and through the back of the truck bed/cab when the truck impacts something. That's a little scary!
Any more Ranger videos n do another winter driving video
The main difference between your big and small truck in snow is the tires. That's why it works better than big truck on 2wd. Use the same tires on both and then you can compare apples to apples. Ps! I love your clean Ranger!
While they're not exactly the same brand - the tires I use on the big F350 are also metal studded winter tires. But you're right - since they're not exactly the same - it's hard to compare. Thanks for watching! And thanks for the compliment on my daily driver Ranger. That's a great little truck.
Had the exact truck years ago, I miss it! I spent the $ and put a posi rear in it. Then snow tires. The posi was wasted $ cuz the snow tires and weight in rear made 2x more difference than the rear diff. Younger people also seem to have completely forgotten bout snow chains too. At least once a year I put them on out of boredom just to see what I can climb in 2wd. I even have a zip tie set that can work in a pinch.
I've never put chains on a vehicle. I don't think it's permitted around here. But I have lots of experience putting chains on farm tractors and garden tractors. :) Chains on those make a HUGE difference in the snow and mud.
@@PurpleCollarLife studded tires arent legal here in WI. But honestly its like a free for all last few years, u cant get pulled over for anything
I find it hard to believe that it snows in Northwest Pennsylvania. I always thought that the Erie area had palm trees
near Mill Creek Mall......
Those palm trees are fake! :) Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
How much weight do you put in back
2WD is way more fun in the snow lol. It makes me more alert and prepared. My Ram does have 4x4 but I hardly touch it. My first vehicle was a 2WD F150 and that had 50% worn all season street tires with 240lbs weight in the back and it barely struggled. Like you said about shifting early, my my F150 was auto so I'd put in in gear #2 and then drive.
Less torque in a higher gear at a lower RPM certainly helps keep traction.
I've found that a 2WD does much better in 2WD than a 4x4 does in 2WD. I don't know if it's all that additional weight in the front of a 4x4?
I'm also a victim of the, "Lake Erie Snow Machine" and I absolutely ALWAYS buy 4x4. A 2WD isn't a chance I'd take on the freeway going to work. Smart using studded tires. I run K02s on my trucks and have no issues with 4x4.
I certainly wouldn't want to rely on a 2WD truck as my only option. I know there are people that do it - and do fine. But like you - when the snow machine turns on, I'd rather be in the 4x4. :)
@@PurpleCollarLife ❤️
I always downshift with my auto transmission on icy hills .
I should have stated that I drive a 2 wheel drive full size chevy truck. I put about 300lbs over the rear wheels and have dedicated snow tires for winter driving. I learned many years ago to use my tranny on slippery roads. Easy on the brakes.
Thanks!
I have heard both sides of the debate on this - shifting down into a lower gear using the transmission to decrease speed/maintain a slow speed, and shifting into neutral for the brakes. It's an interesting debate for sure.
No, it seems to help with breaking to simply use engine breaking and less brakes!
Drove an ‘88 Ranger 2wd, 5spd for 6 winters in New England. No problems at all.
One really snowy winter, I didn’t put my 4x4 Silverado into 4x4 the whole time. 4x4 under steer is pretty scary. I’d rather have controlled over steer with a manual any day.
The understeer vs oversteer and difference between handling in a 2WD truck (RWD) vs a 4X4 truck is a great point! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
Nice, I’m around the meadville area
This is pretty much exactly what I thought it was like, but figured I’d watch a second opinion
Thanks for watching!
How about 6spd 5.0L V8, with all season M/S tires. If i drove in different gear when the roads are slippery would it help. Great video!!!
Thanks for watching! I certainly recommend winter tires if you're in a cold weather climate with snow/ice/sleet. Especially with the torque you'll get in that 5.0 V8! It does help to use a higher gear (less torque) when accelerating if possible, so that your tires don't lose grip as easily. And shifting down with the transmission on slick roads is avoided. Here's a video I did about winter tire advantages: th-cam.com/video/mdZm95bzJsc/w-d-xo.htmlsi=JTyqJOu6q4RkRVRN
If you know how to drive and acknowledge that some of your snowy commute will be a little bit sideways, it can actually be fun. Especially in a manual
What are the best tires to use in the winter climate?
That's a great question. I really like dedicated winter tires, with the 3 peak rating. Around here, metal studs are permitted, and make a big difference. But if you don't want to do the studs or can't use them where you live, I've been really impressed with Bridgestone Blizzak tires. I made a video about them: th-cam.com/video/M4RrSC6TxiQ/w-d-xo.html
Dedicated snow tires for snow. Studded tires for ice
You never mentioned what types of rear differentials were in the two trucks. It looked like the four-wheel drive truck had an open differential and that the ranger had a limited slip. That's very important to know because comparing the two in slippery conditions is a very unfair comparison. And by the way, the ranger that year came with either an open differential or a limited slip and again there is a huge difference. That thing would be practically worthless with an open differential. With all your experience you should have known or at least mentioned it
The F350 has a limited slip 3:73 differential. The Ranger has an open differential, with electronic traction control (which does REALLY help). Great question.
Yeah I found open differential dang near useless in the snow but an electronic Locker or a posi Trac makes all the difference in the world if you have a two-wheel drive with an E Locker or a posi Trac and some weight you can go dang there anywhere you need to but open differential done
Does this truck have an open differential?
Yes - I believe all these 5 speed Rangers came with an open differential. But - the 2010 and 2011 (and maybe other years of this generation) do have the traction control, which helps.
Having a Fiat 126p (engine and rear-wheel drive), in winter I often started in second gear. On the other hand, when driving front-wheel drive cars with a manual gearbox (90% of cars in Europe) there was usually understeer, so the torque delivery was not that dangerous (except in a corner) - I remember once, when I was young, I lost the brakes in an old sedan (on luckily I noticed it) and I reached home driving without brakes (and driving through a large city) for about 50 km. With a manual gearbox you can do wonders (slide into a corner with half-clutch or stop completely without the brakes), but with age the left leg becomes more and more lazy ;-)
Thanks for the great comment!
you may want to leave the wipers up in the air....not on the windshield...then they will not be frozen in ice to the windshield
Thanks!
to help the doors from freezing shut add silicone lube to the seals
Thanks! I'll give that a try for sure.
Dose that have an open rear differential?
Yes- but it is a 2010, so it does have traction control.
@ ok thanks I bought a 2010 ranger super cab sport it’s 2wd I live in Canada so we get snow I have a 3 inch lift and a set of winter approved all terrain s my truck also has a open diff and tractoin control how do u think it will perform
Chains and be careful absolutely
Sure, a fuel injected vehicle will start in Sub-Zero weather even if it has sat for a while, but that doesn't mean that it should be started when it's that cold out. You should definitely have it plugged in anytime. The temperature is below 10° above zero, otherwise it's just very hard on the engine
That’s interesting. I’ve had engine heaters on my diesel trucks - but never had a gas engine truck that was equipped with one. Are you using an aftermarket engine heater to plug in?
@@PurpleCollarLife most vehicles they are available aftermarket or as an oem accessory, but my Ford Ranger actually come from the factory in Montana with a two block heaters and a battery heater. My Honda CRV also sold in Montana came with a block heater
@ That’s awesome!
I've got a 4wd pickup but I got about 400 pounds of wight in the back I get around just fine I live in Indiana
Some additional weight definitely helps. Thanks for watching and leaving a comment.
I wish they would make these pup trucks again.
They would sell like crazy! They're reliable, economical, and easy to drive.
you have some very good points and yes, you can get away with a 2wd, I personally have a same year Ranger ext cab FX4 off road 5 spd manual. Likewise I get away with being in 2wd in that truck, but I wanted the 4x4 just for the extra peace of mind, so if needed it I have it and I will say it has come in handy on quite a few occasions, like at the boat launch and blizzard white knuckle driving, honestly now I think about it 4x4 is a necessity for me as I very frequently have to use it just to get out my damn driveway lol.
Been doing it for 50 years with no problem
You've certainly mastered the technique!
No lie I kill it in my 2.3l 95 ranger in the snow a good set of v bars and your good
That's awesome! I've never used the v-bar chains.
@PurpleCollarLife honestly only problem is they are bad on bear asphalt and if you have a manual easy on the gas because they have so much grip you can fry a clutch easy
7:31
I think your ford farted
It does have gas. :)
I miss my 96 💪😎Ranger 5 speed 😢😢
There are so many benefits to these little Rangers. I can’t believe they don’t make anything like this anymore.
@ I agree 👍
My Ranger is so light even if it gets stuck I can push it out easily, it's like a go cart. also, never got stuck.
That’s awesome! They are easy to move around if needed.
I have a 99 ford ranger auto 2wd and I just put some sand bags in the bed and drive slower and it does just fine
Yes, I grew up in the snow belt and had that exact truck for 9 years. Shirt box regular cab 5 speed ranger. You can drive in snow up to a point (6” or less”) and have to do it just so, however, people watching this. This does NOT mean you can drive on the sand on a beach.
Thanks! My Ranger does surprisingly well in the snow with my studded winter tires. No sand - I’d be afraid to even try that!!
With lockers and sand tires that are big enough and tall enough, you can drive on the sand!
You have to use a locker and specialty tires just for the sand. Then you take the rear tires off before driving it on the road.
@@Zach-sg5uuI see this every time I go to the beach. Unless that sand is hard packed from being wet, 2 wheel drive anything will not make it on the beach. If you swear by this, I need to see a video
@@PurpleCollarLifeyou be afraid to try putting weight on the tired that drive you huh ur special just don't use an old engine block for weight with out securing it that could shift but your thought process is bas awkward
I have an 03 Ranger, 2 wheel drive and manual tranny. No a/c either, I love my littlecRanger.
They're amazing and reliable little trucks! Thanks for watching and leaving a comment. Every comment, click of the "like" button, and subscriber helps our small channel grow.
A two-wheel drive ranger is probably the last thing I would take in the snow. I would use a two-wheel drive F-150 at a minimum
While i was in Alaska one thing i hate is 4x4 trucks who likes to tailgate and drive fast in a sketchy winter condition. go figure why you only see 4x4 trucks and SUV in the ditch all the time.
Yes - I see that often too. People think that because their truck has 4-wheel drive, they can go flying down the road at normal speeds even in snow and slush. I think that most of the time they learn that's not true, eventually.
How much weight do you put in the bed ?
Usually 3-4 tubes of sand. I think they're 70 lbs each.
If you pack the bed with snow, it helps tremendously!
Maybe you should get a ranger with a longer cab and cruise control, seems like that would solve a lot of issues but a 4cyl manual as well. Hard to find I know but might be worth the change. I think they come with those specs anyway. Might not be to hard to ad cruise control as well but then you would still have the seat issue.
Try driving up a hill on an unplowed road with rear wheel drive.
Momentum is your friend. Once you're stopped and have to start on the hill - that can be trouble.
Georgebrost7666 4 wd won’t go up a Un plowed hill either lmao.
Weight in the bed as everyone says, helps a lot. Good snow tires, limited slip & chains if needed for a 2wd works well.
@bostonbruinsfan247 not necessarily driving a 2wd truck takes skill and a 2wd drive with a rear locker will go further than ur 4x4 with no lockers
Lessen the tire pressure!
Drove my 2wd nissan hardbody for 15 years in Saskatchewan, You can do it if you prepare but most people dont wanna do the extra effort. Need good snow tires or studded snow tires an id put 300-700lbs in the bed an that truck could go anywhere. Kinda annoys me now that people think you cant. All trucks were 2wd until late 80s mostly anyway
Thanks for watching! I agree that these 2WD trucks can be capable as long as you're prepared and careful. We do use the metal studded winter tires, and I typically have sand-bags in the bed for extra weight.
But, like I mentioned in the video, when it's really bad - I prefer to drive the F350 4X4. The bigger size feels safer from other drivers on the roads. th-cam.com/video/y3LLMYqD9eg/w-d-xo.html