I'm sure there is poll somewhere, but thought I would share my thoughts on the subject of long vs short bed. At the tender age of 58, if I had it to do over again my diesel choices in life would have been long beds (for hauling, or no load). Smoother ride loaded or no load.

I think I could say the same for gas considering I had one, and a 4 hour trip in the 97 was much kinder on my back. The old 98, is a Quad Cab short bed, but it fits me like a glove and the suspension is pretty much stock. If the 98 went south tomorrow I'd look for same in replacement in gas (5.2 or 5.9).

Off road, if I had those choices to do over again, it would be a regular cab or quad cab short bed. I'd also have to lean heavy toward a V10 like one of our members. It's kinda hard to argue with 300 hp out of the gate. I've always envisioned having one, "off road" only, however impractical that sounds.


I must admit, I'm a solid 2nd gen fan, (diesel or gas and Dodge only). There are a great group of trucks and owners here. The wealth of info on this board is amazing. I learn something new everyday from you guys/gals. K.