All Wheel Drive with FX4 versus enhanced 4X4 with TREMOR

[James Garner]

Can anybody explain what the difference is between FX4 and the Enhanced 4X4 Tremor. I'm trying to hold the emotion down and try to buy what I need in a Maverick truck and not go for all the frills I like but don't need.

What I need:
I've got a small farm to look after (I don't live there), where the 600 ft. Long driveway is mostly up a moderately steep hill. It's gravel and dirt and I don't go out there until it's been dry a couple days with my fwd Ranger.

I also like to go hiking and camping but I haven't needed off-road capability to reach the hiking trails I use - so far.

I'd appreciate any advise you all can give me.

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[NoVaJimmy]

You'll do fine with FX4, plus the extra 2k tow capacity with the FX4 will probably serve you better on a farm. You will get all kinds of opinions about the tremor and its capabilities but the standard AWD system has more than proven itself in many YouTube videos. The difference between the systems is that the tremor has a double clutch rear differential unit giving you "locking" capability (a clutch system has its limits) and you can also lock the system into 4wd as opposed to the standard system which uses a computer to decide when to send power to the rear wheels.

 

[LM42]

You'll do fine with FX4, plus the extra 2k tow capacity with the FX4 will probably serve you better on a farm. You will get all kinds of opinions about the tremor and its capabilities but the standard AWD system has more than proven itself in many YouTube videos. The difference between the systems is that the tremor has a double clutch rear differential unit giving you "locking" capability (a clutch system has its limits) and you can also lock the system into 4wd as opposed to the standard system which uses a computer to decide when to send power to the rear wheels.

It is worth noting that FX4 does NOT have 2k more towing, unless you get the 4k tow package. It is a cheap but separate option.

 

[bgn]

The FX4 with upgraded all-terrain tires will do more for you than the Tremor AWD.

 

[NoVaJimmy]

It is worth noting that FX4 does NOT have 2k more towing, unless you get the 4k tow package. It is a cheap but separate option.

I'm saying it's capable of 2k more capacity

 

[fossil]

It's gravel and dirt and I don't go out there until it's been dry a couple days with my fwd Ranger.

I'm assuming you meant 4wd Ranger. If it's hairy with a 4X4 Ranger you'd be better off with the Tremor especially if it's loose gravel when dry. The loose stuff is hard on the air cooled AWD in the FX4.

 

[MavFromTheDead]

You'll do fine with FX4, plus the extra 2k tow capacity with the FX4 will probably serve you better on a farm. You will get all kinds of opinions about the tremor and its capabilities but the standard AWD system has more than proven itself in many YouTube videos. The difference between the systems is that the tremor has a double clutch rear differential unit giving you "locking" capability (a clutch system has its limits) and you can also lock the system into 4wd as opposed to the standard system which uses a computer to decide when to send power to the rear wheels.

I'm a Maverick Tremor fan boy, and still agree with this post.

 

[NoVaJimmy]

I'm a Maverick Tremor fan boy, and still agree with this post.

I'm pretty sure TFL truck even did a test where they used a hybrid for farm work and it did just fine

 

[James Garner]

I'm assuming you meant 4wd Ranger. If it's hairy with a 4X4 Ranger you'd be better off with the Tremor especially if it's loose gravel when dry. The loose stuff is hard on the air cooled AWD in the FX4.

No, I meant "Front Wheel Drive." I should have spelled it out since all these TLA's (Three Letter Acromyms) are similar.

Good point about the different cooling capacities.

 

[Maverickman74]

No, I meant "Front Wheel Drive." I should have spelled it out since all these TLA's (Three Letter Acromyms) are similar.

Good point about the different cooling capacities.

There has never been a front wheel drive ranger. They are all rear wheel drive with 4x4 optional. That said the FX4/4k Mav is a pretty solid truck. The main reasons we upgraded to the Tremor are increased ground clearance(we were going to have to lift our FX4 to bring it to our house), also the front valence is higher and tighter(we would have had to trim plastic otherwise), my brother designed the shocks so I really want to see em in action, and finally we oredered from Granger in early 2022 and our XLT Tremor will come in at $29,420(after the $3000 off discount).

If you have ever thought a subaru could work for you, the FX4/4k will be a wonderful truck for you, but if you have been cross shopping midsized trucks but want something a little easier to get around in, a Tremor may be right up your alley.

 

[SigOris]

No, I meant "Front Wheel Drive." I should have spelled it out since all these TLA's (Three Letter Acromyms) are similar.

Good point about the different cooling capacities.

What MY is your Front Wheel Drive Ranger?

 

[FromAway]

My subjective take which is more correct than everyone else:

1. The Tremor suspension upgrades are a complete joke. It goes from 8.6" to 9.4" of clearance. A proper coil lift is available in the aftermarket that is much better in every way.

2. The Rear Drive Unit of the Tremor is definitely an upgrade, but I think you would be hard pressed to find situations that it succeeds compared to the stock unit which is very good. And it isn't worth the loss of 4K tow capability to me.

3. The front bumper approach angle of the Tremor is an upgrade, but comes with the tradeoff of less cooling which is not ideal.

4. The upgraded half shafts could turn out to be a very important upgrade. I have not seen a direct comparison to stock yet. These will likely be available through Ford or aftermarket in the near future.

 

[710-oil-614]

The FX4 with upgraded all-terrain tires will do more for you than the Tremor AWD.

That is simply not true.

EDIT - Sorry - took that as more capable. I see what you're saying - an AWD with ugpraded tires will service his off roading needs while still providing ability for the 4K tow and increased payload should OP desire it. No Tremor necessary for the uses he described above.

 

[NoVaJimmy]

That is simply not true.

Probably just implying more capability for farm life rather than off road capability. Higher capable towing, higher payload, etc

 

[LM42]

I'm saying it's capable of 2k more capacity

Correct, with the 4k tow package. Not as just as FX4. It is important to note that.

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