So I recently received orders to change bases from Florida to Alaska, and I have no real idea what I'm in for. I'm down to two options: keep my 2012 V6 and prep it as best as I can for the snowy climate or trade it in right before leaving for an affordable AWD vehicle. The reason that I'm leaning towards keeping the Mustang is because I absolutely love it and I'm currently upside-down in the loan. I have about 6 months before I start prepping for the move up there, but I don't know if that will be enough to get a good amount of equity in the car. I've already looked at snow tires (Blizzak seem to be pretty popular), an engine block heater, possibly an oil pan heater, and even adding some weight in the trunk. I guess what I'm asking is: "Does anyone have any experience at all with a RWD vehicle in snowy climates, specifically dealing with the traction issues?"
Air Force and it'll be at Elmendorf in Anchorage, AK. From what I hear, they keep the roads fairly cleared, which is a good sign for the Mustang haha. Plus, these 2 videos are what give me hope for keeping my Mustang haha.
Air Force and it'll be at Elmendorf in Anchorage, AK. From what I hear, they keep the roads fairly cleared, which is a good sign for the Mustang haha. Plus, these 2 videos are what give me hope for keeping my Mustang haha.
Brrrrrrr. It's in the 40's now in Houston and I'm freezing !!
So the old "got transferred to Alaska" routine!
Did you go off on a superior officer? Jk
I would personally get an awd vehicle. SUV/truck or a suburu sti if you wanted something sporty yet stable.
I have trouble keeping this Rwd beast pointing straight in the summer in Houston. I'm not sure how I would feel driving it when it's 20 below on a flurry. Yikes.
Air Force and it'll be at Elmendorf in Anchorage, AK. From what I hear, they keep the roads fairly cleared, which is a good sign for the Mustang haha. Plus, these 2 videos are what give me hope for keeping my Mustang haha.
I did my artic survival school there when it was -78 degrees there (and I had a blast).
The first thing that you are going to want to buy and install is an engine block heater, without it your mustang is just dead weight. Also for the winter time you are going to want to get some chains for you tires, or studs. Check with the base on which is allowed. The best place is to go on www.airforcecrossroads.com. The main roads are easy to travel on, but watch out for the moose, they have the right of way, and they some some them still get up and go after they are hit. Good luck.
If you do trade it, do not go AWD. Definitely get 4x4.
I mean if you want AWD specifically, that is up to you, but if you like sportiness and want to have fun with the option of better traction, then 4x4 is the way to go.
If you are new to the Air Force, you might check and find out if you are allowed to take a vehicle to Alaska. Also, will Uncle Sam pay to have it shipped to Alaska or do you have to pay or drive it there?
Here is the site for the JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska.
JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska
Also, if you are driving, make sure you read the part about transporting firearms through Canada.
I've been in for 5 years. I'm allowed to take a vehicle since it's a Permanent Change of Station, not just a temporary tour. The military will pay to have it shipped or will pay for me to drive it. Either way, it won't cost me. I currently don't have a firearm. I was going to get one once I'm in Alaska.
I take to my friend that jus theft there and is stationed here with me and she said that they do allow studs on the tires and that it is highly recommended. Also look into having your car shipped vs driving do to mileage from your current location.
Alaska is not like what people think it is... I know many people who think it is ice year round, it isn't... It does snow in the winter and you will get like 6 hours of sunlight also, but during the summer it gets hot, and the sun stays up ALL day. If you live in Alaska, just make sure you have a 4wd truck and you are good... Lots of long roads close by also to open up the Stang. Also make sure you have a place to store the stang in the winter... I actually love alaska, i have family there and haven't been in a while, i really want to go again.
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Mustang Evolution Forum
2.1M posts
50.9K members
Since 2003
A forum community dedicated to Ford Mustang owners and enthusiasts. Come join the discussion about performance, horsepower, modifications, troubleshooting, racing, and more!