Excellent views and experiences posted on the question of 4x4 vs 4x2's. Been debating this issue, being in the market for a new tow truck, and have appreciated the many fine contributions made here.
As stated by several of you, the question really boils down to how one is going to use their RV; and, if one really needs 4x4 when not towing.
In our case, our TrailManor is more of a motel on wheels, used primarily to travel distances while seeing this great USA and/or family and friends. We don't usually go to a specific destination and stay a week or longer before returning home. Don't see how traveling on major roads, spending nights at RV parks, and rarely staying in one place for more than a day or two, makes a case for the initial higher cost and lower mpg of purchasing a 4x4 tow vehicle. We live in the south; rarely see snow, again no need for 4x4. And, should we ever get stuck in a muddy camp ground after a big rain, we would only be out the cost of getting a local garage to set us free.
Our fantasy life can sometimes play tricks on us and we begin to imagine all sorts of situations that would make having a 4x4 fun and adventuresome. So, once again, thanks for all your comments. They helped Dixie and me sort through this question with greater clarity.
(Incidentally, I place all-wheel drive cars and SUV.s in a different category, as with such drive trains one is getting a certain safety feature. We had a Subaru some years ago, when we lived in Nebraska, and its awd afforded a sure footedness on the road that was reassuring.)
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