Modified SR5 vs Off-Road

I’d also argue you can’t assume empty weight. I’ve put my truck on a cat scale while loaded up for a week-long camping trip back in March and I had a 51/49 weight distribution.

Edit: I just pulled out the slip. 2900lb Front / 2860lb Rear with a full tank of gas.

 

Correct Generally FWD cars are better than RWD (with less rear axle weight) in the snow on paved roads but that wasn't what we were originally discussing. so yes you are correct but for the sake of the thread and my own curiosity have you tested your truck in sand with no locker and just A-Trac? How often are you lifting a wheel?

My personal and extensive experience driving on sand (beaches & desert) is that 4wd and rear locker is better than 4wd open diffs and A-trac. additionally I have easily driven up obstacles and hills that were significantly more difficult with 4wd open diffs and A-Trac.

But if the OP isn't into that kind of stuff then don't buy a truck with a locker.

 

We have sand here in Minnesota, but it is generally well packed. There are no legal trails along lakes or rivers where you might find unpacked sand. We have a lot of mud, dirt, organic matter, rocks, mud, snow, and ice. I find the locker most useful in high traction situations where wheel spin is bad, but those are rare. Watch an east coast off-road video if you want to get an idea of what wheeling is like in the Midwest.

 

Did not expect this thread to gain so much traction (pun intended)

 

I guess it depends on where and how you are going to wheel your truck. I've been wheeling my OR for three years and have found it convenient to use the rear locker a few times but didn't really need it. I never used the MTS until a few weeks ago and only because a discussion came up about it and it made me curious. The MTS with craw control was amazing - like off road cruise control - it got me up and over some difficult terrain (steep up hill loose rocks and some deep ruts). I got a couple of compliments on handling the obstacle but like I told the guys I was with it wasn't me it was the truck and kind of took the fun out of it. A few folks in front of me had to use their skill or needed a spotter so yeah I missed out because the truck took over. I guess in a really tough spot it would be useful though.

 

What "suspension upgrades" on the OR? You mean those tiny Bilsteins with 35mm pistons? Those aren't a noticeable step up from the blue Hitachis.

I got the OR because I go off road often and have seen enough SR5s and TRD Sports struggle on obstacles that I walk up on first attempt with the locker. What are the trails like in your region? If they have lots of rocks, sand, mud, or deep snow, then a locker will make a difference.

 

“4x4 with good tires get me everywhere I need.”
SR5. You answered your own question. Enjoy!