Guys, I think it's about that time for me to get a REAL Man's truck, yes I'm talking about a Diesel 4x4. If there is any reason why I shouldn't that I don't know about, please let me know. I was thinking about getting a 2500 4x4 98-02, a Ram of course!

Thanks

 

Uhm...deisel gas is pretty high. But, it seems to be pretty good with mileage. What kind of loads are you plan on hauling.

 

If you live in the midwest, and have availability to 'SOY BIO-DIESEL' then go for it, its about 1.00$ a gallon cheaper than regular diesel and is more efficient as well as clean. I live in Iowa and bio diesel is the ****, I just wish it would've been available before I bought my truck, otherwise I would've bought a 3/4 ton diesel instead of a 1/2 ton gasoline.

 

I really have no need to pull or haul anything, I just want a diesel 4x4, my buddy and I are both looking for a diesel truck so we can make our own bio-fuel!!! And go mudding of course!!!!!!

 

hey man deisels rock the only thing that kept me from getting one is i dont really know anything about working on the deisel engine but a couple of my buddys have them and have them jacked up and man they put out serious ponies i like them man go for it if u got the money

 

those things can pull a house down if you wanted. should see them at the diesel truck pulls 4x4 diesel 6speed on 37's with 600+ torque. switched into 3rd pulling that sled and steady hopped and spun all 4 tires. takes some SERIOUS power to do that!

 

For 4x4'ing and mudding, I would not recommend the diesels. Yes, the have boat loads of torque, but that front end is extremely heavy. I have seen gas trucks go through mud holes no problem, and the diesel just sink down in the front, getting stuck past the axle. Also, off-roading with a diesel can be tough, again due to the weight. The ideal setup is something that has good torque, but is relativiely light weight.

If you want a towing machine, then no question - get the Cummins!

Lastly, maintenance can be a little more expensive to. Take changing oil for example. I can't remember the exact amount, but there is about double the amount of oil of what comes in V8.

 

I've been considering the exact same thing... wanting a cummins diesel 01 or newer, I think however maint costs are a bit higher. Not sure about the costs of repairing but it's like anything else... learn as you go and you'll find cheeper ways to fix things..

I think there is plenty of upgrades out there too... My brother has a Power stroke ford that he did the hypertech program to and he couldnt believe the HP it added.

 

Something else I thought of that you might want to consider before taking the plunge with a diesel. You didn't say were you live, but diesels require extra attention in the cold winter climates. They start very hard, and you will need a block heater and ability to plug it in at night. Also, diesel fuel can gel up in extreme cold temps. We had this happen on my brother-in-laws '99 this weekend. Granted, it was -10 which is somewhat rare for eastern Colorado, but it really sucked none the less.

I'm not trying to talk you out of it, just some stuff I thought of.

One of the best reasons to get a diesel is longevity. If properly maintained, a diesel engine can easily run 200,000 + miles. Not that gas enignes can't also do the same, but it is just more common in a diesel. If I ever upgrade from my gasser to a diesel, it will be because of towing/hauling ability, and longevity.