Why FWD

[skipper]

The way I see it- The same reasons people buy 4wd vehicles goes for tractors. I always prefer 4wd for the comfort of knowing I can more things I probably couldn't do without it, but I sure don't like to pay for it. Comparing a basic tractor to a tractor with a FEL isn't apples to apples. I have seen the difference in a 2wd vs 4wd pushing snow-it can't compete. I have seen almost everything stuck from tractors, big dozers, backhoes (although he did eventually get himself out) to 6wd military trucks. It all boils down to what you need, what you want, and what your wife will pay for.

 

[CSAW]

One more advantage of fwd is that it in effect gives you four wheel brakes in slippery conditions. (Maybe only three under some conditions because of the differential.)

 

[GlueGuy]

There is no doubt at all that 4WD is required; maybe just not all the time.

There is no question that I can pull more and push more with all wheels doing some of the work. I see it all the time with <font color=orange>Lucy!</font color=orange>

Probably one of the reasons that I see it all the time is that I am putting her into 4WD and taking her out of 4WD, depending on the operation. Others have stated that steering is "sluggish" when in 4WD. I wouldn't quite describe it that way, but it is certainly less nimble. There is no question that I can turn a tighter, and quicker corner in 2WD versus 4WD. I do it all the time.

When I'm working on the road, I will have her in 4WD when I'm pulling a load with the boxblade. Have to do it that way, I don't have enough traction in 2WD. I've tried it, and when the box gets above 50% full, the rear wheels start to slip.

However, when I get to the end of a run, and I want to spin around and go back the other way, I put her in 2WD because I can make the turn in one quick go. If I keep her in 4WD, I often as not have to back up, and make a "Y" turn instead of a "U" turn.

Simple physics.