I'm looking to buy a diesel truck, something with lower miles under 100k, 4x4 with a super cab and an auto for a trans. I just want to get something thats going to be a good runner and not have any major issues. From experience I seen problems with every make, some greater then others. I know VT365's 6.0L,s had problems from working on them, I worked in a dealership that had a 5 star franchise drivetrain components were getting rebuilt or replaced daily and for GM I haven't had much experience with them except for there gasser trucks. So whats a good truck just to have as a everyday driver?
Jon

 

Ford chevy and dodge all have some good and bad points. For me the Dodge trucks have ben trouble free I have broke a few things in the past but I had it coming.

Biggest thing is how the truck was treated before you buy it.

 

That is the most important thing, Did the owner of the diesel truck take good care of it, (1) Was the oil changed every 4,000 miles (2) Was the fuel filter changed every 35,000 miles{On 6.4 the fuel filters must be changed before 15,000 miles} (3) Was the tranny fluid changed at 30,000 miles ??? These are things that must be done

 

I quess its like any other vehicle, if you do the routine maintence the truck will treat you right. Here's another question, what about MPG, it seems newer models with emission equipment have a lower MPG. I understand you can remove these parts but what about the drivabilty once you removed the parts, is there a way to reflash your ECM or add a programmer to make it run right?

 

You need a programmer to remove the DPF, But keep the DPF handy in case you have to take it to the dealer(only if the truck is under the 5/100,000 mile warranty]

 

How much are you wanting to spend?

If you're going for an auto, and arent going to want to be doing anything competitive like drag racing or pulling, I'd go for a 7.3 Powerstroke (99-early 03), especially if you are wanting a cheaper truck. It might be a little harder to find one with under 100k, but it can be done. Reliable, good mileage, and a solid truck around it.

If you dont mind shelling out a little more money, I would recommend either an LBZ Duramax (06-07) or an LMM Durmax (07-10). The earlier Dmax's had a range of problems from injectors to head gaskets to overheating, but they got them straightened out by the time the LBZ's came out.

And in reference to an earlier post, if you remove the emissions equipment, DPF and etc. (like on an LMM Dmax), yes you can buy programmer to clear any codes, and it should be runnin quite a bit better than before