Lookin for a Ford Diesel!

[OG 8 Lug]

Yes, it's true. I will soon no longer be an FSC owner. I am in the market for a 92-97 Ford F250/F350 (SRW) crew cab with a 7.3. However, I also have some great plans. Tell me what you all think.

-6" to 9" lift
-35" tires, hopefully Toyo M/Ts
-18" to 20" XD Monster rims
-Straight pipes
-Performance chip
-White paint, with all black accents (trooped out - black wheels, grille, bumpers, lights, exhaust tip)
-Full sound system with two 12" subs under the backseat and new door speakers
-Steel front bumper

Tell me what you think. I think it should be totally badass when it is finished.

[TugboaT]

they last for ever. but i think u should get the truck first.

[OG 8 Lug]

What do you mean?

[rebelbowtie]

Meaning don't make any plans until you own the truck

[nick613]

Not gonna lie I love those trucks too lol. CCSB or CCLB?

[OG 8 Lug]

Meaning don't make any plans until you own the truck

I'm making plans but I'm not actually buying anything until I'm getting one for sure.


Not gonna lie I love those trucks too lol. CCSB or CCLB?

Either one, just depends on what I can find. But now my dad is trying to say there is no benefit of having a diesel. So I need to do a little convincing cause if I end up with another gas truck Im gonna be pissed as ****. I dont think my dad realizes that one of my goals in life is to have a multi-functional diesel... why not start now?

[Koots]

Diesels are versatile engines, very simple iN design, can be very reliable.

The downside is this:

The older 7.3L is an indirect injection diesel (like the 6.2 diesel) which starts the combustion process in the heads before it hits the cylinder. Which creates a lot of heat in the heads...which limits the power ceiling a little and makes it a little more fragile than the more modern diesels.

They are still diesels though, they can be turbocharged, they can put out more torque than most SBCs could dream of and run alternative fuels. The last one requires some careful research and proper parts and care, but isn't impossible. I've thrown everything from 2 stroke oil, gas (to help thin out the used motor oil I used)., used motor oil, ATF and even used ATF.

Just take good care of your Injection pump, injectors and glow plugs, don't use ether to ever try and start it under any circumstance...do all of this and you should have a dependable, beast of a truck that can outmuscled most big blocks, purely on cubic inches alone.

[OG 8 Lug]

Not to mention a straight-piped diesel is probably one of the greatest sounds ever known to man.

[Koots]

Not to mention a straight-piped diesel is probably one of the greatest sounds ever known to man.

100% correct

There is no sound quite like a high compression NA diesel IMO

In my town there are more 7.3 IDIs than any other older diesel. I love hearing them clack down the road. Makes me miss having my K5 on the road :(

[bayko]

Makes me miss having my K5 on the road :(

What happened to it??

And my brother has a 96 ECLB powerstroke, it is fun to drive but I would take my 6.2 over it any day.

[OG 8 Lug]

Also considering a 5.9 Cummins, saw a ECSB the other day, so sick.

[sniper_101]

Another person buying a diesel just to blow smoke I'm guessing . . . stick to gassers.

[Koots]

What happened to it??

And my brother has a 96 ECLB powerstroke, it is fun to drive but I would take my 6.2 over it any day.

It's halfway through a transmission swap, waiting on parts now. Should be better than ever afterwards.

[OG 8 Lug]

Another person buying a diesel just to blow smoke I'm guessing . . . stick to gassers.

Actually I'll be hauling sound equipment, and hoping for better city mileage than 10...

[FordeatinZ71]

they last for ever.


you sure about that? i owned a '96 F350 (originally an F250) 4x4 SCSB (Ford calls 'em Super Cabs...get it right...) with a 7.3 Powerstroke and a 5-speed manual. 136k miles. i'm gonna link a picture to it at the end of what i type. here's my list of mods and then the problems i experienced within a year...

Mods
150cc Swamp Donkey injectors
3.5" downpipe (if you get a bigger one in that bodystyle PSD, you deserve a cold beer)
4" Banks Monster exhaust
BRV (Boost Relief Valve-fools the computer into thinking it is getting less boost...otherwise the computer cuts fuel/timing when boost hits 25 psi)
Dana 60 (High Pinion) swap
4-position computer chip from Northern Diesel Performance with custom tunes by Tony Wildman
Tymar cold air intake
6" suspension lift
37" Super Swampers
South Bend Con-O-Fe clutch (garbage. fvck South Bend...ask me why)
Pro-Comp lateral traction bars
'02 Super Duty center console
Silver Face gauges (to include the 3 gauges on the A-Pillar)
JVC AM/FM/CD/MP3 player with remote
10" Kicker sub (1,000 watt amp)
Reunel "moose proof" front bumper (not in pic)
can't remember type of wheels right off hand

dyno'd at 308.8 rwhp and 620.1 rwtq

probably other stuff i've forgotten...now...onto the list of problems. and before anyone says it...i have worked on cars/trucks/vans/semi's/Humvee's for years...i knew what i was doing. never had a vehicle mess up repeatedly like this one...so, not in any particular order...

-transmission input shaft snapped
-clutch blew (LuK)
-all clutch hydraulics
-starter
-both batteries/cables
-rear axle bearings failed (rebuilt axle)
-front axle had excessive slack in R&P (rebuilt front axle)
-front wheel bearings went out (4 different times...2 new spindles and 2 sets of locking hubs...and of course a set of brake pads)
-too many u-joints to count
-transfer case got hole knocked in it thanks to u-joint exiting at high speed
-rear pinion bearing
-ABS sensor
-power steering pump
-rear axle flange seal
-core support broke 3 times (have fun with this...it's a common problem on the 94.5-97 PSD trucks that are off-roaded...breaks on both sides of the hood latch...your hood cable sheath will hold it down somewhat)
-new clutch slipped after gentle 1,000 mile break in (resurfaced flywheel, installed exactly as specified...fvck South Bend)
-multifunction lever went out (had to hold back on lever to have any headlights...brights only. for 150 miles...i was popular with my Sylvania Silverstars)


i've probably forgotten some...funny how time erases certain things. truck had 136k on it...was the biggest P.O.S. I've had to date. so, no, they don't last "forever"...and, a picture of my beautiful mess...

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f342/myspaceisgeigh/1320286138.jpg

(hope that link works...my phone is goofy)

[rebelbowtie]

Actually I'll be hauling sound equipment, and hoping for better city mileage than 10...

I can tell you know you aren't serious about towing if you plan on putting a 9" lift on the truck. You can prob get away with a gas engine, just admit you WANT a diesel.

[Mark13]

Actually I'll be hauling sound equipment, and hoping for better city mileage than 10...

With your list of mods, don't count on it.

And I'm guessing your not talking much weight, you may be further ahead with a gas truck especially if you don't drive alot.
Around here diesel is currently $.60-80 cents more a gallon, I get the same city mileage as a gas truck usually, and I have higher maintenance and up front purchase costs. I used to drive 35k+ a year and the diesel was nice for that. Now that I'll be lucky to average 9k this year I'm loosing money with the diesel but it's what I have and it's setup the way I need.

[sniper_101]

No truck lasts forever, and some get lemons/abused trucks . . . also complaining about drive-line wear on lifted truck with 37's, lmao.

[rebelbowtie]

Josh! Getting a 3" downpipe on an old ford is a feat let alone a 3.5" and it does need a beer from all the hammer swinging you're gonna be doing beating the firewall back.

[FordeatinZ71]

No truck lasts forever, and some get lemons/abused trucks . . . also complaining about drive-line wear on lifted truck with 37's, lmao.

well go on ahead and laugh your @$$ off. i've had more lifted trucks than i can count and even my '79 K30 with 11" of lift and 44's didn't wear like that P.O.S. i'm not some "noob" when it comes to lifted trucks, diesels or vehicles in general, bud. i've never had any vehicle give me trouble like that b!tch did. the next owner emailed me about a month later...the wheel fell off because the bearing failed again and the transmission broke again. good riddance.

and abused? not while i had it. the previous owner? quite possibly. the heaviest thing i ever towed was a tiny wooden trailer (normally pulled by a Volvo wagon) with a 400cc street bike in it. heaviest load i hauled with it was it's Reunel bumper. i wheeled it a few times but really didn't get to much...it liked the garage more.

so...yea...don't make me out to be some rookie idiot who's never touched a truck before.

[FordeatinZ71]

Josh! Getting a 3" downpipe on an old ford is a feat let alone a 3.5" and it does need a beer from all the hammer swinging you're gonna be doing beating the firewall back.

don't i know it. i thought i was gonna have to send it back. couldn't squeeze a fährt between it once it was installed.

[sniper_101]

well go on ahead and laugh your @$$ off. i've had more lifted trucks than i can count and even my '79 K30 with 11" of lift and 44's didn't wear like that P.O.S. i'm not some "noob" when it comes to lifted trucks, diesels or vehicles in general, bud. i've never had any vehicle give me trouble like that b!tch did. the next owner emailed me about a month later...the wheel fell off because the bearing failed again and the transmission broke again. good riddance.

and abused? not while i had it. the previous owner? quite possibly. the heaviest thing i ever towed was a tiny wooden trailer (normally pulled by a Volvo wagon) with a 400cc street bike in it. heaviest load i hauled with it was it's Reunel bumper. i wheeled it a few times but really didn't get to much...it liked the garage more.

so...yea...don't make me out to be some rookie idiot who's never touched a truck before.

The people with reliable and good working 94-03 7.3's FAR outweigh the owners with trouble like you had. It isn't a million mile platform for nothing.

I never accused you of being a "noob", or "rookie", but complaining about drive-line wear on a 3/4 ton (probably 7800lb truck), with engine upgrades (309RWHP is about twice stock power), with a 6" lift and 37's on a truck that was originally TTB that has "rebuilt" axles that had issues . . . again, these are things that come with a lifted, higher performing modded truck, sounds like you had higher than average issues, but not uncommon. Going to have front end issues when lifted on big tires be it a Cummins or Duramax.

Care to compare the number of happy vs. displeased 7.3 owners?

However, your misfortune of having a lemon can be used to further show a diesel costs far more to own than a gas, no matter which brand.

[OG 8 Lug]

I can tell you know you aren't serious about towing if you plan on putting a 9" lift on the truck. You can prob get away with a gas engine, just admit you WANT a diesel.

Well, more like 6. And yes I want a diesel (very badly actually), but not "just because".


With your list of mods, don't count on it.

And I'm guessing your not talking much weight, you may be further ahead with a gas truck especially if you don't drive alot.
Around here diesel is currently $.60-80 cents more a gallon, I get the same city mileage as a gas truck usually, and I have higher maintenance and up front purchase costs. I used to drive 35k+ a year and the diesel was nice for that. Now that I'll be lucky to average 9k this year I'm loosing money with the diesel but it's what I have and it's setup the way I need.

Diesel here is about $0.25/gal more. I'm just ready for a change. I'm already tired of the old 350 Vortec. I want to at least try a diesel.

[Mark13]

Diesel here is about $0.25/gal more. I'm just ready for a change. I'm already tired of the old 350 Vortec. I want to at least try a diesel.

Depends what diesel you go "try" and that'll effect your thoughts on them. The impression a 6.2/6.9 or 6.5/7.3 idi will give you is going to be different then that of a 12v cummins or a 7.3. And compared to the trucks that some of us are used to a tuned 7.3 is old news and not that much fun to drive but still makes a good work truck platform. If it was up to me and I had the choice to go drive an old idi diesel or a newer gas motor I'd probably pick the gas motor. Not only does it make more power but is more fun to drive around town. And not to mention the transmission behind it will be more updated along with an all together newer truck.

[FordeatinZ71]

The people with reliable and good working 94-03 7.3's FAR outweigh the owners with trouble like you had. It isn't a million mile platform for nothing.

I never accused you of being a "noob", or "rookie", but complaining about drive-line wear on a 3/4 ton (probably 7800lb truck), with engine upgrades (309RWHP is about twice stock power), with a 6" lift and 37's on a truck that was originally TTB that has "rebuilt" axles that had issues . . . again, these are things that come with a lifted, higher performing modded truck, sounds like you had higher than average issues, but not uncommon. Going to have front end issues when lifted on big tires be it a Cummins or Duramax.

Care to compare the number of happy vs. displeased 7.3 owners?

However, your misfortune of having a lemon can be used to further show a diesel costs far more to own than a gas, no matter which brand.

i don't dislike the 7.3. it's a great engine...and if you look through my complaints, i never had one bit of trouble with mine...the rest of the truck couldn't stay together. i bought a 3/4-1 ton truck so it would take more abuse...but honestly my "worn out" 220,000+ mile '91 K1500 with its original engine/rebuilt tranny took way more abuse than that F*rd ever did (towed loads no 1/2 ton should, hauled loads i'm impressed didn't break a leaf spring and got driven like it was stolen a lot...off roaded almost daily. and out of the 2.5 years i had it i only did a tune-up, some upgrades (not necessary), a thermostat, a u-joint, a temperature sending unit and a radiator. they don't say "Like A Rock" for nothing...:D

[OG 8 Lug]

Depends what diesel you go "try" and that'll effect your thoughts on them. The impression a 6.2/6.9 or 6.5/7.3 idi will give you is going to be different then that of a 12v cummins or a 7.3. And compared to the trucks that some of us are used to a tuned 7.3 is old news and not that much fun to drive but still makes a good work truck platform. If it was up to me and I had the choice to go drive an old idi diesel or a newer gas motor I'd probably pick the gas motor. Not only does it make more power but is more fun to drive around town. And not to mention the transmission behind it will be more updated along with an all together newer truck.

Truthfully, the only experience I've had driving a diesel was an 07.5 GMC 2500 and I loved it.

Also, I don't really have the money to afford a newer gas motor. But **** if someone offered me a 1995 F250 with a 7.3 or a 2011 Dodge 1500 with a Hemi, I'd take the Dodge.

[FordeatinZ71]

well, buying a new D*dge is a good way to get to know the parts/service technicians at the local stealership :crazy:

[sniper_101]

Truthfully, the only experience I've had driving a diesel was an 07.5 GMC 2500 and I loved it.

Also, I don't really have the money to afford a newer gas motor. But **** if someone offered me a 1995 F250 with a 7.3 or a 2011 Dodge 1500 with a Hemi, I'd take the Dodge.

Curious, but have you looked into the maintenance cost of a diesel?

15-40 dino oil + a good filter will be $50-100+, if you use conventional. Nearly double that for Synthetic. The auto fails, expect $2k+ for a reman stocker, that WILL go again if it's modded and/or lifted. Injectors start at $1k a set for a 7.3. Plus all the added cost of high quality and quantity of fluids and filters. Glow Plug relay upgrade and maybe glow plugs. If you can't do this stuff yourself, expect shop bills to be the cost of parts or higher.

Just something to think about. If you don't have the need for a diesel, they can and a lot of the time do either nickle and dime you to death, or cost far more then expected for general fuel consumption and maintenance.

[OG 8 Lug]

Really the only gas truck I am looking at is the '02+ Dodge 1500 crew cab with the 4.7 or 5.7, or maybe a '99+ Ford SD with the 5.4.

To me, diesels are entirely intriguing, and I'd really love to get into them and working on them, but I'm not sure I want to pay for constant maintenance. I just wish I had millions of dollars because then I'd have no problem making a decision.

[Mark13]

Truthfully, the only experience I've had driving a diesel was an 07.5 GMC 2500 and I loved it.
Well now that you know what the newer dmax truck's are like, your going to be pretty disappointed by say a 93 Ford or Chevy/GMC. At that point your comparing a nice personal jet to an old Cessna that is lucky to have a seat cushion.


Really the only gas truck I am looking at is the '02+ Dodge 1500 crew cab with the 4.7 or 5.7, or maybe a '99+ Ford SD with the 5.4.

To me, diesels are entirely intriguing, and I'd really love to get into them and working on them, but I'm not sure I want to pay for constant maintenance. I just wish I had millions of dollars because then I'd have no problem making a decision.

Have you considered any of the ls based gm motors in the 99+ trucks? I think you'd be quite surprised by a 5.3 in a 1500 or a 6.0 with some minor mods in a 2500. Stock the 6.0 trucks are not really that exciting to drive, but the potential is there to make a monster.

[OG 8 Lug]

There is a slight chance. I found a nice 02 or 03 GMC 2500 CCSB for $3100 once... if I can find a deal like that then yes. But I'm really tired of the OBS torsion-bar-based IFS.

[Mark13]

But I'm really tired of the OBS torsion-bar-based IFS.
What's the problem with it?

[OG 8 Lug]

Judging by the work and money I've put into the front end of my 96 K2500, a lot.

[SlvrdoHDmax]

I dont know why people make such a huge ordeal about diesel maintenance costs. Yes your right if a part fails on the engine it may cost a bit more but something like an oil change isnt that bad. For my truck, a 2.5 gallon jug of Rotella at $30 and a Baldwin filter for $8. Just throwing in my .02

[FordeatinZ71]

are you just looking to do more maintenance? the F*rd 5.4 in the year range you are wanting to look at has a nasty reputation for blowing spark plugs out of the heads...you have any idea how much it costs when that happens? at a F*rd dealer that's a $3-4,000 job. call 'em if you don't believe me. i make $750 or so everytime i do it (been 5 times so far). not to mention they are generally weak engines that will leave you disappointed in power expectations and fuel consumption. i could go on but i'll leave that one at that.

and D*dge...just google "DaimlerChryslerSucks" or "DCXSucks"...those trucks are worse than the F*rds. transmissions that don't last, dashes that bust within 100k miles, engines that develop knocks like their bearings are made out of cardboard...and i could go on. and on top of that (i know warranty probably won't be an issue for you) a warranty department that finds some way to blame you for every problem their truck develops. even if you can prove regular maintenance and no abuse. read about it. lots of people have lawsuits against D*dge right now from the gore marks they have from "Grabbing Life By The Horns". lets not forget that the D*dge you crave so bad has...Independant Front Suspension. thought you were tired of that? D*dge's system is no better than GMs.

it just seems to me like you say you have no money, but you're wanting to jump out of the frying pan into the fire. you're wanting to buy junk. granted, your truck might be worn slam out and it might be time for a new one...but why wouldn't you get a GOOD truck to replace a good truck? what you're wanting to do is basically replace a Snap-On tool with a Harbor Freight tool. :D

[bayko]

I do agree with a lot of what's being said, but if the guy wants a diesel, let him get a diesel. What difference does it make to any of us?

[sniper_101]

I dont know why people make such a huge ordeal about diesel maintenance costs. Yes your right if a part fails on the engine it may cost a bit more but something like an oil change isnt that bad. For my truck, a 2.5 gallon jug of Rotella at $30 and a Baldwin filter for $8. Just throwing in my .02

Quite possibly it has been brought up because . . . yes they are more costly to maintain, and repair.

My truck uses 18 liters/4.75 gallons of oil with my bypass system. A stock 7.3/6.0 use 3.5'ish gallons. Also, yes, everything about a diesel is more expensive, not sure what world you're living in?

[bayko]

Also, yes, everything about a diesel is more expensive, not sure what world you're living in?I live in a place where diesel fuel is a lot cheaper than gasoline! :cool:

[FordeatinZ71]

well it seems Canadia did one thing right at least...eh?

[SlvrdoHDmax]

Quite possibly it has been brought up because . . . yes they are more costly to maintain, and repair.

My truck uses 18 liters/4.75 gallons of oil with my bypass system. A stock 7.3/6.0 use 3.5'ish gallons. Also, yes, everything about a diesel is more expensive, not sure what world you're living in?

I never said that everything was not more expensive. Maybe Im just lucky with mine being that Ive only had $150 in repair cost in a year. :dunno:

[sunsetorangeHD]

I would stay away from the f-250 ttb front end.

[rebelbowtie]

TTB if properly maintained is better than torsion sprung IFS, Not to mention it can easily be upgraded to take more abuse or converted to long travel.

[sunsetorangeHD]

My personal thought would be the option of having a dana 60 over the ttb dana 50. That would be the axle of choice.

[rebelbowtie]

D60 solid axles are obviously better, I thought you were comparing a D50 to GM IFS

[sunsetorangeHD]

No, i was just talking about ford, i am not sure if it is a myth but i heard that the ttb does not have both front tries centered in the wheel well.

[Quyonmob]

5.4L SD? GIANT TURD. Gutless in a 1/2 ton, even worse in the one of the heaviest 3/4 platforms.

Only diesel you have driven is a Duramax? Don't expect the driving experience of a 7.3L idi to be anything like a Duramax.

[Diesel Dan LB7]

TTB if properly maintained is better than torsion sprung IFS, Not to mention it can easily be upgraded to take more abuse or converted to long travel.

TBIFS can be upgraded plenty as well.

I personally would never own anything with a TTB front end, don't align for sh*t, and "properly maintained" means balljoints every 15 miles.


The long travel setup works decent if used on a mid sized rally truck.

[FordeatinZ71]

5.4L SD? GIANT TURD. Gutless in a 1/2 ton, even worse in the one of the heaviest 3/4 platforms.

Only diesel you have driven is a Duramax? Don't expect the driving experience of a 7.3L idi to be anything like a Duramax.

i agree totally...except for one thing. he was talking about a Powerstroke, not an IDI. now, he did get the year range wrong...Powerstroke was introduced in '94.5, not '92. but, i just wanted to clarify for anyone reading the thread, because a few people have made reference to IDI Ford's.

[Quyonmob]

i agree totally...except for one thing. he was talking about a Powerstroke, not an IDI. now, he did get the year range wrong...Powerstroke was introduced in '94.5, not '92. but, i just wanted to clarify for anyone reading the thread, because a few people have made reference to IDI Ford's.

10-4, didn't know the years, not a ford guy, but did have a 92 7.3L 2wd F350 CCLB as service truck. Was like driving a 40ft long tractor. :D

[FordeatinZ71]

hahah they are like tractors. i had an '85 F250 4x4 with the 6.9 diesel and then my '96 F350 4x4 with the 7.3 Power(?)stroke.

[OG 8 Lug]

are you just looking to do more maintenance? the F*rd 5.4 in the year range you are wanting to look at has a nasty reputation for blowing spark plugs out of the heads...you have any idea how much it costs when that happens? at a F*rd dealer that's a $3-4,000 job. call 'em if you don't believe me. i make $750 or so everytime i do it (been 5 times so far). not to mention they are generally weak engines that will leave you disappointed in power expectations and fuel consumption. i could go on but i'll leave that one at that.

and D*dge...just google "DaimlerChryslerSucks" or "DCXSucks"...those trucks are worse than the F*rds. transmissions that don't last, dashes that bust within 100k miles, engines that develop knocks like their bearings are made out of cardboard...and i could go on. and on top of that (i know warranty probably won't be an issue for you) a warranty department that finds some way to blame you for every problem their truck develops. even if you can prove regular maintenance and no abuse. read about it. lots of people have lawsuits against D*dge right now from the gore marks they have from "Grabbing Life By The Horns". lets not forget that the D*dge you crave so bad has...Independant Front Suspension. thought you were tired of that? D*dge's system is no better than GMs.

it just seems to me like you say you have no money, but you're wanting to jump out of the frying pan into the fire. you're wanting to buy junk. granted, your truck might be worn slam out and it might be time for a new one...but why wouldn't you get a GOOD truck to replace a good truck? what you're wanting to do is basically replace a Snap-On tool with a Harbor Freight tool. :D

I think you're misinterpreting me. When I say I don't have the money for a newer gas truck, I mean I don't have the money to buy like an 05 F250. I do, however, have the money to buy a GOOD truck and still have money to put into things I want.

As far as the 5.4 goes, I've never heard much of spark plug problems :O. I have a friend with an '05 F150 with the 5.4 and it's been great to him so far.


Quite possibly it has been brought up because . . . yes they are more costly to maintain, and repair.

My truck uses 18 liters/4.75 gallons of oil with my bypass system. A stock 7.3/6.0 use 3.5'ish gallons. Also, yes, everything about a diesel is more expensive, not sure what world you're living in?

This is the only reason I am rethinking my decision.

If not a diesel, which trucks should I look into? I know some people are anti -Dodge and anti-Ford because they've had bad experiences but I am not looking for bull**** bias.

[FordeatinZ71]

so...wait. if people base their decisions on real-world experiences that's bull$h!t bias? :lol: are you serious? what, exactly, are we supposed to base our opinions on? it's not like i said "oh, i don't like ovals so fvck Ford". i based my opinion on the FACT i have lived.

with that being said...i've had Fords i absolutely loved. like the '87 F150 that belonged to my great grandpa...has the I6 and the 4-speed...that is one great truck. and all my '93-'94 Rangers. those were great. can't forget my '86 and '88 Mustang GTs...those were wonderful. so no, i'm not anti-Ford. i'm anti certain models.

same with Dodge...i don't hate them as a brand...i hate certain models. its not my fault the models you named were junk. but it's cool, don't listen. have fun at the repair shop/side of the road.

oh, and if you get an '05-newer F-series you won't spit out plugs. those models like to seize in the head, then you pull out the threads when you try to take 'em out. but they don't blow out. i thought you meant an 04-older model. those blow out. don't believe me? google it.

and as for a truck suggestion? call it "BS bias" if you want...but i say as new of a Chevy/GMC as you can afford. gas or diesel but probably gas. get the 5.3/6.0 and you'll be happy. if you feel you need a 3/4 ton, get one...but even with a newer 1/2 ton you'll probably be happy. but good luck with whatever you do...i mean that.

[OG 8 Lug]

I wasn't directing that toward you. I just meant anyone who was looking to give me an opinion. Cause we all know someone who doesn't like Ford or Dodge or Chevy "just because".

[rebelbowtie]

With all the dodge hate you'd swear I had the only good dodge ram....actually I had 2 of them. Both of them had significantly less problems than my GM trucks, with the exception of a transmission failure at 80,000 miles on my 99 ram sport 1500

[FordeatinZ71]

lol you pretty much did. i've heard most Dodge owners call their trucks any word other than "reliable" or a "good truck". glad you had good luck with yours though!

[Jon4x4]

hey og, if you need oil i will stock you up for dirt cheap, i got my buddy 23 quarts for 60 bucks, so let me know what ya need and ill help out lol

[FordeatinZ71]

pretty easy to steal the bulk oil from the quickie oil change places down there in FL?


:lol:

[Jon4x4]

No? I work for ford and get oil for cost.

[FordeatinZ71]

i...was...joking...relax...#xanax

[OG 8 Lug]

If I don't do a diesel, I'd love to do something similar to this...

http://www.mhtwheels.com/images/gallery/Dodge_1500_Hostage_1_M.jpg

... just with some smaller rims and a few extra things. I think that looks great.

[Jon4x4]

yeah youll love to do that until your wallet falls apart with that 7mpg.

[FordeatinZ71]

he'll learn...the hard way...but he'll learn.

[OG 8 Lug]

yeah youll love to do that until your wallet falls apart with that 7mpg.

No, I already know, I only get about 10 now.


he'll learn...the hard way...but he'll learn.

I'm always willing to learn.

[kemble]

The 5.4s spit plugs out left and right when they have the PI heads. Got one tore apart right now that has had 3 plugs spit out since new (different cylinders).

Oh the 2 valve 5.4 is gutless in a 3/4 ton, the 3 valve is a little better but still nothing to write home about.

[OG 8 Lug]

Well in the end it will come down to what is the best thing I can find for the best price.

[Mark13]

And get 5mpg?


Friend of mine has an 03 Dodge 2500 4x4. 5.7/auto. 4 door/long bed. All stock besides 305 trail grappers on the stock wheels. He's lucky to see 9mpg. They've had the truck since new and it's never done very good on gas.

[Jon4x4]

lmfao, every 5.4 we have come into the shop we immediately rec a tune up, takes on average 4 hours for spark plugs. youll always have 1 thatll break off.

[Jon4x4]

just get a 1500hd, and be done, itll be the 3/4ton in a 1/2 ton.

[OG 8 Lug]

Well in the end it will come down to what is the best thing I can find for the best price.

Again, this.

Kinda funny though, I want a diesel for fuel efficiency but I say I want a gas truck people say the mpg sucks.

[rebelbowtie]

A GMT900 half ton with the vortec max would be am even better choice than a 1500HD. Heck I hate to say it even a tundra, they're making these half ton trucks these days more capable than older 3/4 ton amd 1 tons.

It's no oil burner but it's still something to consider

[Jon4x4]

there was a 2500 down the street, CCSB 7.4 200k miles 4x4 auto and leather interior, clean as hell for 7500, wish i could offer 6k

[OG 8 Lug]

A GMT900 half ton with the vortec max would be am even better choice than a 1500HD. Heck I hate to say it even a tundra, they're making these half ton trucks these days more capable than older 3/4 ton amd 1 tons.

It's no oil burner but it's still something to consider

Any kind of Toyota truck is waaay overpriced down here. I really don't like the older Tundra either.

Also GMT900s are really far out of my price range. I really like them though. I have two friends my age (18) from school, one has a 2010 1500 and the other has a 2009 2500HD with a 6" lift on 35s, I've driven both of them and I love them.


there was a 2500 down the street, CCSB 7.4 200k miles 4x4 auto and leather interior, clean as hell for 7500, wish i could offer 6k

What year?

[rebelbowtie]

Older tundras aren't much of a truck anyways...but I figured I'd just throw out a few other options.

[OG 8 Lug]

Yeah with my budget i'm not looking at any Tundras.

[FordeatinZ71]

i know this is on mobile youtube but it should work no matter what...one of my many thoughts on the Turdra...lets not get into the whole "uglier than an abortion gone wrong" thing...:lol:

m.youtube.com/watch?gl=US&hl=en&client=mv-google&v=EWjTbiYo3x0

[Koots]

Well in the end it will come down to what is the best thing I can find for the best price.

You won't be burnin up the road or rolling coal (without an EGT gauge) but you can see anywhere from 15-27MPG out of a 6.2 diesel. Its about as powerful as a 305 stock, but gets better mileage than any 4.3 I've driven. Even my moms 09 Sierra with aluminum 5.3L that gets a stickered EPA 19/25MPG only gets 16-17 MPG real world and I drive it a mix of sensible and spirited. I got that in the K5 in my sig in pictured form, driving through a mix of road and wet gravel with 3.42 gears, in 3rd most of the way.

It may not tow like a cummins, but it can still haul a cummins ram out of the mud like it was nothing though :D

[Koots]

Extra fact!

The older 6.9/7.3 IDI diesels used a counter rotating version of the same pump used in the mechanical 6.2 and 6.5s. So any extra power the 7.3s have over these Detroit diesels is the extra displacement.

[Quyonmob]

Even my moms 09 Sierra with aluminum 5.3L that gets a stickered EPA 19/25MPG only gets 16-17 MPG real world and I drive it a mix of sensible and spirited.

That EPA MPG sticker would be IMP gallons (4.5L), not US gallons (3.78L), meaning it is not comprable to any MPG numbers anyone would post on this forum as the imperial gal is around 17% larger.

[Koots]

Who even uses IMP gallons anyway?

Thats super lame :lol:

[Quyonmob]

Who even uses IMP gallons anyway?

Thats super lame :lol:

Canadian MPG window stickers do. I always wondered why my dad was getting 23mpg from his 2005 Z71 ECSB 5.3L (L33) and my 07 Classic Z71 ECSB 5.3L was only 19mpg, right down to the same tires... Then I realized how old school he was, using imp gal. :D

[FordeatinZ71]

well if that's what it takes to make him feel better about his truck...:lol:

[Jon4x4]

Any kind of Toyota truck is waaay overpriced down here. I really don't like the older Tundra either.

Also GMT900s are really far out of my price range. I really like them though. I have two friends my age (18) from school, one has a 2010 1500 and the other has a 2009 2500HD with a 6" lift on 35s, I've driven both of them and I love them.



What year?

i wanna say like a 2000

[Koots]

Canadian MPG window stickers do. I always wondered why my dad was getting 23mpg from his 2005 Z71 ECSB 5.3L (L33) and my 07 Classic Z71 ECSB 5.3L was only 19mpg, right down to the same tires... Then I realized how old school he was, using imp gal. :D

Ive always calculated my own mileage in US gallons, I just thought IMP gallons was there to trick us LOL.

[rebelbowtie]

SeCretly Americas hat wishes it were America

[FordeatinZ71]

lolwut¿

[rebelbowtie]

Because race car

[FordeatinZ71]

se habla espanol¿¡

[rebelbowtie]

Leopluradon

[FordeatinZ71]

will you take me to Candy Mountain?

[rebelbowtie]

Stick a banana in your ear

[FordeatinZ71]

as long as no banana pudding ends up in my ear i'm down...:looking:

[kemble]

The gift that keeps on giving.

[OG 8 Lug]

Extra fact!

The older 6.9/7.3 IDI diesels used a counter rotating version of the same pump used in the mechanical 6.2 and 6.5s. So any extra power the 7.3s have over these Detroit diesels is the extra displacement.

I'm not sure if you're telling me to get a 6.5 or 6.2 over a 7.3, but that goes back to what I originally said. Not to mention 6.2s and 6.5 are practically nonexistent in these parts.

Edit: I have no idea what the hell is going on up there... ^

[Koots]

It's a suggestion, but if there are none around, don't go out of your way. The 6.5s are okay, but definitely don't cross state lines for one :lol:

[FordeatinZ71]

i wouldn't personally cross county lines for one. don't get me wrong, for fuel mileage in a full size pickup, they are king. and they are a reliable powerplant...really reliable when properly maintained...but if i'm buying a fullsize truck with a diesel, i'm buying it to tow/haul heavy stuff...not really for fuel mileage...and the 6.5 doesn't really excel at that. not compared to the Cummins/Powerstroke/Duramax/Kubota/VW TDi.

there's a reason GM offered the 6.2/6.5 in 1/2 ton trucks when neither Ford/Dodge ever did.

[rebelbowtie]

I always wondered how the Audi Q7 with the VW TDI W12 diesel with 900lbs ft/tq towed...for some reason I just don't see that "truck" being designed to tow.

[BlacK20]

TBIFS can be upgraded plenty as well.

I personally would never own anything with a TTB front end, don't align for sh*t, and "properly maintained" means balljoints every 15 miles.


The long travel setup works decent if used on a mid sized rally truck.

dont knock TTB unless you have owned a vehicle with TTB setup, i prefer it over GM IFS anyday, as long as it maintained its fine. Ive never done balljoints in either of my fords now, and they were just fine.

[FordeatinZ71]

i'll agree on the alignment thing with TTB Fords...but that's it. they are very tough IFS setups...i've owned a few and never had real trouble at all

[Koots]

I always wondered how the Audi Q7 with the VW TDI W12 diesel with 900lbs ft/tq towed...for some reason I just don't see that "truck" being designed to tow.

I heard some good things about the Tuareg when it had the V10 TDI. I'm sure 2 extra cylinders wouldn't hurt...but I'd say its far from an HD diesel motor and might not like being hooked up to a trailer...kinda like trying to tow with an SL65 AMG.

[FordeatinZ71]

hell, if 10 cylinders is good...and 12 cylinders are better...why not just go with 24 or 36 or so? i mean, where does it end?

[Koots]

I would go for less cylinders, personally...

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=6v53%20diesel%20chevy&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CEcQtwIwAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DK3y ohoCqD2E&ctbm=vid&ei=vau6ToGCLILy0gGm8-XfCQ&usg=AFQjCNF5qBEZ-P0zr-D9BzWSJLeAquQ-bA

[FordeatinZ71]

hell yea! that's what i'm talking about! i totally, 100% agree...i was being sarcastic in my other post. i think those 10/12 cylinder diesels are kinda assinine...

[Koots]

I figured you'd enjoy it :cheer:

89-91 CCLB DRW with that drivetrain, would make for a legendary light duty hauler.

[FordeatinZ71]

yea i had actually jacked off to...er, SEEN that video before...it's a good un!

and honestly, i guess it depends on your version of "light duty hauler". i think your limitation would mostly be the frame with that drivetrain...i think it would pull whatever you could hook it to...if it could get traction...

[rebelbowtie]

I <3 Detroits

[FordeatinZ71]

:word:

[Koots]

yea i had actually jacked off to...er, SEEN that video before...it's a good un!

and honestly, i guess it depends on your version of "light duty hauler". i think your limitation would mostly be the frame with that drivetrain...i think it would pull whatever you could hook it to...if it could get traction...

I Mean light duty next to a Topkick/Kodiac/Brigadeer/3500HD (GMT400)

I'd take my quiet but weak 4 stroke over that for a DD though. I'm sure the noise would be awesome, but not 6am when I'm hungover and bringing my GF to work :lol

[FordeatinZ71]

:lol: yea sometimes the relative silence is nice...:D

[OG 8 Lug]

Hmm now I'm thinkin Cummins over Powerstroke. I'd rather have an I6 5.9 than a 7.3 V8, I don't really need that kind of engine. Not to mention I don't need glow plugs, Florida is never cold enough to choke up a diesel.

[FordeatinZ71]

now you're thinking smart! just make sure you get a handshaker (manual)...

[OG 8 Lug]

I'll take what I can get if the price is right. Auto or manual.

[Koots]

just remember that the big power comes with big weight. A 5.9 cummins will weight around 1000lbs and that is on the low end of the spectrum. The D60 in my old bosses 99 Ram would take a beating from all the weight. A solid axle that is definitely needed for the big, rattling diesel.

don't get me wrong though, If I was gonna build a tow rig, it would have a 12V in it and I would enjoy every minute of it.

[OG 8 Lug]

Well that's the thing about an I6, the I6 reduces vibrations because the engines are self-balanced, unlike V8s, so they aren't necessarily "rattling". And as much as I'd love an SAS, I don't think I'll be able to afford it.

[Koots]

Well I meant diesel rattle, which comes from the combustion event.

I had my 6.2L V8 diesel idling next to my bosses aforementioned 99 Ram, when he started up his truck I couldn't hear my truck anymore. Mine is a naturally aspirated diesel with a true dual exhaust, so engineering wise, I should have the loudest engine. I can actually order at drive-thrus...he can't :lol:

[rebelbowtie]

Well that's the thing about an I6, the I6 reduces vibrations because the engines are self-balanced, unlike V8s, so they aren't necessarily "rattling". And as much as I'd love an SAS, I don't think I'll be able to afford it.

Lolwut? You're looking at buying a dodge they come with SFA

[OG 8 Lug]

Well I meant diesel rattle, which comes from the combustion event.

I had my 6.2L V8 diesel idling next to my bosses aforementioned 99 Ram, when he started up his truck I couldn't hear my truck anymore. Mine is a naturally aspirated diesel with a true dual exhaust, so engineering wise, I should have the loudest engine. I can actually order at drive-thrus...he can't :lol:

Eh, for me louder = better, unless that loudness is in the cab.


Lolwut? You're looking at buying a dodge they come with SFA

That's what the hell I thought, I've got myself all confused now.

[Diesel Dan LB7]

5.9L vibrate a hell of a lot more than my V8, .02.

[OG 8 Lug]

Maybe because it's a diesel. Straight-sixes are constructed in a way that they are self-balanced so they don't cause as much vibrations.

[Diesel Dan LB7]

Maybe because it's a diesel. Straight-sixes are constructed in a way that they are self-balanced so they don't cause as much vibrations.

my V8 is a diesel. Infact I have several v6 diesels that shake much more than my v8.

[OG 8 Lug]

I said straight six, not V6. There is a big difference.

[Diesel Dan LB7]

my V8 is a diesel. Infact I have several I6 diesels that shake much more than my v8.

Edit: typo

[OG 8 Lug]

In theory they aren't supposed to. But then again real life =/= theory.

[FordeatinZ71]

I'll take what I can get if the price is right. Auto or manual.


you'll find the auto trucks cheaper...and around 80-150k miles you'll see why...but you go ahead, find that "good deal"...:D

[OG 8 Lug]

Well I know the trannies are notorious for going out early, are the manuals any better?

[rebelbowtie]

The Autoboxes in the 2500's aren't that bad but they have a bad fluid pump and torque converter solenoid that doesn't circulate fluid well. I had to change mine out on my 98 along with a valve body rebuild but my 99 half ton was fine.

They do generally crap out at 80,000 miles though if they're going too. They just get a really bad rep behind the 12v because people turn up the "smoke" screw and burn out the trans. Go on a diesel forum and see all the allison's that shît the bed with a simple tuner.


But the good thing about the 47re is the HUGE aftermarket for it and it's easy to build.

[FordeatinZ71]

the moral of Tim's story...yep, they go out prematurely. and yep, the NV4500/5600 (6 speed, came only behind the 24v Cummins HO) last a LOT longer when treated properly.

[rebelbowtie]

Actually the moral of the story was, yes they crap out often but so do GM trannies ie; 4L60e and the Allison.

[FordeatinZ71]

that's like saying, yea, mexicans die but so do caucasians. the question was still answered...yes, Dodge transmissions crap out early, especially behind a Cummins. and, for the record, my 4L60 is doing wuckin funderful at 149k miles...all original...heheheh...

[OG 8 Lug]

Hmm, now I'm thinking Pstroke, if I can find one with a Dana 60 up front. I'm not sure.

[stockchev]

the manuals behind a dodge are great ones, the clutches arent great for much, but the trans themselves hold well, my cousins cummins had a 500hp dualdisk southbend and it slipped so bad the truck maxed out around 60, now hes got a 750, and if he keeps im much longer it will probably have to go bigger
the allisons are junk, my friend sliped his with just his edge, (its an lml) now its got efi live and a new tranny is in his near future

[Mark13]

the allisons are junk, my friend sliped his with just his edge, (its an lml) now its got efi live and a new tranny is in his near future

Considering efi live is not available for the lml your story is flawed about how bad the allisons are.

[FordeatinZ71]

OH SNAP!!!!


(Stupid ass capitalization blocker...gotta type some dumb $h!t filler down here to make it leave my capitalization alone. Stupid friggin crap. Did I mention it was friggin stupid? Because it's totally friggin stupid. The "man" needs to $h!t and fall backwards.)

[SlvrdoHDmax]

The Allison is a good transmission. They are not made from the factory to be run with aftermarket power adders. Behind a stock or very lightly modified engine, and maintained, they could last the entire life of the truck

[stockchev]

Considering efi live is not available for the lml your story is flawed about how bad the allisons are.
my bad, idk which one it is, its an 08, all i know for the motors is that 06 and 07 were LBZ which is the best, then there was the LB7 and theres a lml and an lmm?i im not to much on keeping up with all those aberivations

[SlvrdoHDmax]

LB7, LLY, LBZ, LMM, LML
All in time order