To 4x4 convert for snow or not necessary?

[BertyBus]

Hi everyone I just purchased by short (5 window) skoolie this summer and thanks to all of you for all the posts that have answered the 101 questions!!

Found some threads on this but still not decided…..

I’m planning to drive the PanAmerica hwy starting at Prudhoe bay Alaska this March and heading south to the tip of Patagonia.

From what I’ve read 4wd isn’t needed along the way but I currently live in Canada and plan to drive a fair amount in snow to snowboard in BC and obviously up to Alaska from Vancouver island this winter.

It’s a 2wd Dually and I’m wandering if I need to get it converted to 4wd for the snow?

Any advice much appreciated

[Ronnie]

A limited slip differential, or a locking differential that you can put in the existing rear would be my first option, and tire chains.

[peakbus]

Is it a cutaway van body or a full size? I had a 5 window Thomas that would spin tires on flat grass but my cutaway bus on an E450 chassis does pretty well on the little bit of snow I've been on. Good tires are a must, chains will also be important to have. Our ski area uses many cutaway shuttle busses and they seem to do alright.

[The lazy farmer]

If your bus Is a full size, it will cost 5 grand+ to add a locker. I think I would just go buy some tire chains.

[Danjo]

I have a 5 window Thomas. I’ve found that it’ll spin a nice deep hole pretty quick. Also unless it’s running light in its Speedo the front end is a bit of a plow in sand. I think 4X4 would do it well if it’s possible. In that regard, I’ve seen a lot of 4x4 ambulances that might be good straight out of the box

[sportyrick]

After feeding cattle with a 2wd with chains my vote is chains, that truck would go where 4wd wouldn't. Ya it's cool to sit in the drivers seat and pull a lever or turn a knob and you have instant 4wd but you are hauling all that junk around all the time sacrificing fuel mileage and doubling maintenence.