Which one would be a better beginner truck? I am looking for one that would be better as a play and work truck. I have always been a Ford guy, aka anti chevy, but I like the fact that the dodge has a factory turbo. Which one has better parts availability? Which one has more aftermarket? Also which one can be had for less if both were the same condition?

 

I personally would go with a first generation 12 Valve Cummins. They last longer. They have a stock turbo. You are able to do more performance mods to them. But they are still a mechanical engine so you aren't able to do half as many modifications to them as a computer controlled. But the turbo gives you options. The cummins may be a little more expensive but worth the extra cost.

 

The first gen Cummins is the oldest Diesel worth having from a performance standpoint. It's turbocharged, direct-injected, a better bottom end, easier to modify.

If you get a first gen you'll come to wonder why you ever considered anything else.

 

this is the first time I agree with Begle1 i think, the 7.3 IDI wouldn' teven be a consideration in my opinion just because of the lack of available power, and relative lack of dependability get the cummins and you will be glad you did

 

x2

While the IDI 7.3 is a good engine it does not hold a candle to the VE cummins in a 1st gen. Alot easier to modify, better milage, longer life.

 

1st gen cummins

 

My dad's going to support me on raising the money(I think). We just got a IH Farmall H today and had to tow it from Sunbury to Lock Haven on I-80 with his 92 6-cylinder 2wd and got 45-50 mph average on a 65mph interstate. I need an upgrade if I want to tow the H over mountains to the shows. If I get the cummins what should be the first mods?

 

guages

 

Go through the truck, change all the fluids and filters, ensure that you're getting full throttle travel and then fix all the electrical problems.

Then get gauges.

 

So if I'm reading this right the majority of the folks on this site would recommend a Cummins over the Power stroke or Duramax?

By the way what year Dodges are considered the 1st generation Cummins?