FX4 or Locking differential

[Georgej]

Looking at two 2021 XLT’s. Same color, one is an FX4, the other is anXLT with locking differential and remote start. I don’t really off road but sometimes the snow gets pretty bad around here. There’s also an XLT 4 x4 with no locker. I’ve never had the locking differential on any of my other trucks. Is it really worth having?

Sponsored

 

[Dr. Zaius]

Looking at two 2021 XLT’s. Same color, one is an FX4, the other is anXLT with locking differential and remote start. I don’t really off road but sometimes the snow gets pretty bad around here. There’s also an XLT 4 x4 with no locker. I’ve never had the locking differential on any of my other trucks. Is it really worth having?

Yes, it's worth having.

The locking differential is a roughly $500 option, which is a screaming bargain compared to an aftermarket locking differential.

Just for reference, an ARB is around $1k, then add the required compressor at around $300 and then installation which varies but expect $500.

As to 4x4 with the diff or FX4, it depends on if you want all the FX4 extras or not.

Mine has has the locking diff. It's been very handy the few times I've used it.

 

[Fritz]

I like to lock the rear diff and shut off the traction control. Makes it pretty easy to do donuts in the snow.
I opted for an xl truck with a locker instead of an fx4 because it saved me about 18k (found the xl used). A lot of people pay more for the fx4 and complain the suspension is junk? What’s the point then?

 

[Trigganometry]

What Dennis said. Doing it upfront is the way to go. Aftermarket will be expensive and also void power train warranty. I have an XLT Sport 4X and live in New England. Hasn’t been a problem yet. If I do decide later I do want a locker will find a junkyard axel and swap them out. In the end that will be the cheapest and simpler of all possibilities

 

[Georgej]

Im only looking at the FX4 because that’s what the dealer has. The other truck is a Velocity Blue on.I wasn’t crazy about that color but it’s starting to grow on me.

 

[Dr. Zaius]

JMO, but I haven't regretted getting the FX4 for a nanosecond.

Yes, the rear is bouncy when stock but $200 for a set of Bilstein or Eibach shocks resolves that nicely.

And that's only if it bothers you.

Most are fine with the stock rear shocks.

 

[AZRanger]

I like to lock the rear diff and shut off the traction control. Makes it pretty easy to do donuts in the snow.
I opted for an xl truck with a locker instead of an fx4 because it saved me about 18k (found the xl used). A lot of people pay more for the fx4 and complain the suspension is junk? What’s the point then?

Trail control/terrain management are the main benefits.

 

[12Bravo20]

And after having plenty of Jeeps with the different off road modes, I got spoiled. So yes to me the FX4 with terrain management and trail control are worth it. Plus I get a locking rear diff and skid plates. I would be adding those anyways so might as well get them from the factory.

And I am one that doesn't complain about the FX4 being bouncy. No it isn't as smooth as my Jeeps but it is still better than the old trucks I use to drive or any of the vehicles I drove while in the military.

 

[jflogerzi]

If I were you I would get the 4x4 with locker and add the Terrain Modes in with Forscan. If you not planning any serious off-roading or rock crawling. Remember the FX4 includes a few skid plates(all can be added afterwards) and if the non FX4 is the better color go for that. The only big thing your missing is Trail Control which so far ppl have not figured out how to add.

 

[CB750F]

1 - What do you want to use your truck for?
2- I need it to pull a travel trailer. I don't need 4X4 but it's all they sell up here.
I would have bought a 4x2 with locker if I could have, I don't do trails(none around).
So, what do you need/want a truck for? Minimum, buy a truck with locker.

 

[Dgc333]

I live in New England and have to deal with driving in the snow. The extent of my off roading has been driving on the beach. I have had a 4x4 pickup continuously for the past 30 years. None of the trucks had a locker or a limited slip rear differential and I never felt the need for one.

That being said I have a Tremor and will certainly give the locker and trail modes a try this winter.

 

[towpro]

I thought the FX4 package included the locking differential?


2020 Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road Package – list of features

First, we’ll list the features that you can expect to get when you upgrade with the 2020 Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road Package. Then, we’ll go into more detail on some of the top performers. The 2020 Ford Ranger FX4 Off-Road Package features are as follows:

• Off-road-tuned monotube shocks
• All-terrain tires
• Electronic-locking rear differential system
• Exposed steel front bash plate
• Undercarriage skid plates
• Terrain Management ™ technology
• Trail Control ™ technology

 

[OCL]

It does come with the locking diff.

The OP was asking if the FX4 was worth it over an XLT 4x4 with the optional locker. He was also looking at another model without the locker.

Do you really need a rear locker? No. The only time you'd want one is if you're rock crawling and using up a lot of axle articulation on a regular basis. Or launching boats on wet, slippery ramps. Other times, you actually want to keep your locker disengaged especially if you're negotiating tight turns on a flat ground (even off road). You can still do donuts on soft terrain with just 2WD and locker disengaged. On most easy to moderate terrain, the off road drive modes are the most useful.

The FX4 is worth it though over a standard 4x4 because you get it all: off road drive modes, skid plates, and the rear electronic locker.

 

[JesseS]

FX4 Off Road 4X4 W/Locker. only way to go....... Hate to need it and come up short!

 

[Rp930]

Drive both decide which one you like. Make sure tire pressure is at least close.

Sponsored