Which is better for offroading: 4x4 w/LSD or 2x4 w/locker?

Specifically for sand/mud. I have heard some people say a LRD 2wd will take you more places than a 4wd w/o a locker. Just curious...

 

Too much depends on the driver to say one or the other is clearly better. I will say that in sand- I'll take 4x4 without a locker any day.

 

A 4x4 with open diffs is probly btter than 2wd locked

 

Driver is important, but if you are going to do mud get a 4x4. Sand is doable in a 4x2 but still harder. IMO get a 4x4

 

A 4x4 no doubt.

 

4x4. Anyone who says different is just jealous cause they aren't running power to the front.

 

You have to remember where your primary weight is. Floatation is great, but you still want your heaviest axle to have drive when it gets sticky.

 

Yup. ^^^ I have first hand experience too.

 

Plus, since you mentioned LSD, you're probably talking about TRAC. That will provide you with even more than the equivalent 2 wheels of power.

 

TRAC is in the newer ones though.

 

You can add lockers to 4x4 a HELL of a lot easier and less expensively than you can convert a locked 4x2 to 4WD.

If we're talking no changes, you gotta pick, go with 4x4.

 

Its still not as great as a locker, but its decent. I like mine.

 

4wd

 

With the majority of weight over the front axle (engine) and nearly nothing over the back, when the bed is empty... 2WD is far less capable... But, in 2WD... with enough air removed from the tires... can get to a lot of places that 4WDs with unexperienced drivers cannot or will not try.

The beauty of 4WD is that you can go slow over rough/ steep terrain and not damage the truck... In 2WD, you may need to have momentum (speed) to get over tough areas.. and that can damage your truck.

 

ATRAC locks up though.

 

True on both accounts, but from the title, I'm assuming the reason for the OPs query is to compare SR5 (or Standard) 4x4 to TRD-OR 4X2 due to likely price concerns.

We all know that Lockers are great and Mechanical LSD is convenient as all get out. But, both come at a price. And a hefty one too.

But to the OP, please correct me if I'm wrong.

 

I already bought a 2010 Sport 4wd...but, I have a friend that likes to argue about everything who told me that a LRD on a 2wd is better. It sounded crazy so I decided to pose the question here. Of course, if I would have bought a 2wd w/LRD he would be telling me how much better 4wd's are.

 

4x4 FTW

 

Huh? What am I putting on? LOL!

 

This.

Plus the "smart" wheels will not have the traction, making steering in the mud and rocks more challenging.

Plus 4WD gives you a low range transfer case - which is essential for long, steep hill climbs.