2WD or 4WD 3500

[Critter81]

I am purchasing a new 3500HD this week and the local dealer has a sreamin deal on the 4X4 I do not need 4WD but the pric is right.. How much will the 4WD lower my mileage??

[DmaxMaverick]

Negligible. The newer 4 X 4 technologies nearly eliminate what used to be. The things that will effect the economy are usually what is associated with 4 wheel drives, like larger/wider tires, accessories, driving habits, etc. The effects will be the same with a 2 wheel drive if you equip it the same. You do have to consider that the 4 wheel drive components add weight, and the weight does effect economy, but it is minimal.

A real upside to a 4 X 4 is resale. Not only will you recover the 4 X 4 expense, but it will be much easier to sell in most cases.

[Heartbeat Hauler]

Somethin else to think about if you are going to tow with your 3500 is that the additional weight of the 4x4 components will detract from your max towing capacity. I believe the 4x4 adds 400lbs but I'm not positive on that. I have a 4x4 3500 and run with a pin weight of 1900lbs and the truck is great! The 5ver is a 30ft w/1 slide. Any bigger than this and you could get real close on the max.
JP
Oh on edit: I get 17 mpg (16.9) around town and about 13.4 towing @65 - 70 mph.

[Pfouts1001]

Critter, I would never buy a fullsize truck without 4x4. As the other guys have said, yes the 4x4 option adds weight, but in most cases this weight is near neglible to the economy and the resale value more than makes up for it. Another thing to consider is having low range. If you have any situation where you move a trailer offroad... like through fields, or up grades on trails or non hard top driveways, that extra gearing comes in handy!

Personally I pull a 25' gooseneck (approx 13,500 lb) and get 14-15 mpg at 60-65 MPH

Unloaded I get low 20's mpg highway an 18-19 city