Fredericksburg.

 

I wish I was flying out for Christmas/New Year's, this year. I love Virginia and regret not having accepted an assignment to the DC area back in the early 90s. I would have stayed after my time was up in the Navy.

 

It is a nice place.

 

I made mention in this thread I'm considering a diesel pickup for the purpose of hauling my 1949 Allis Chalmers WD and possibly other types of tractors or implements.

This article (10 Best Used Diesel Trucks and cars) puts the 1996-98 Dodge 2500/3500 as a good purchase based on the ability to bolt on mods for extra power and performance. I've used a 2009 model Dodge Diesel to haul a fairly heavy load and was impressed with how the automatic transmission performed.

I know Ford 6.0 diesels can be picked up for cheap but that it will cost around $4,500-$6,000 for improved aftermarket parts that correct everything wrong when they came from the factory.

I'm leaning toward a Dodge because A) I've owned a 2nd Gen and, B) I did test drive a 2nd Gen diesel when they were new, and I was impressed with the turbo charged Cummins.

Will it matter that I won't drive the truck very often? I love my 2007 5.7L, but I drive it once or twice per month and feel I would be better off getting a diesel I'll most likely work, such as hauling heavy materials and other service duties.

Any suggestions or advice is appreciated. Also, should I consider a 3rd Gen diesel?

 

Suppose it depends on if you want electronic fuel controls, or purely mechanical..... The third gen trucks seem to have done the 'creature comforts' a bit better...... or maybe it just seem that way to me because it was newer...... I don't think you can go wrong either way, as a personal preference though, I would skip the newer ones that want DEF, and such..... Whatta pain.

 

I found a 1998 3500 with only 133K miles. I sent an inquiry to the dealership to see if it's still for sale. If it is, I'll probably jump on it. It is a complete cream puff.

 

That'll haul anything you care to toss behind it.

 

As how it always happens, the creampuff has been sold. Looks like I'll be putting out some feelers.

 

Does anyone know the website that sells the good replacement headlights? I have some of the chintzy ones off amazon and they suck. I thought there was a thread on it but I can't find it.

 

AM-AutoParts.com.