Edmunds dealer partner, Bayway Leasing, is now offering transparent lease deals via these forums. Click here to see the latest vehicles!
Options
diesel engines
is it true that if you buy a diesel truck you need to make it work for the truck that it is , or can you use it for every day use.
Tagged:
0
This discussion has been closed.
Comments
I do know of lots of 3/4 ton diesel trucks that are used as daily drivers. I have not heard of any problems directly associated with these trucks either.
So, I'd say go for it if that's what you want.
Other than that, use diesel rated motor oil - like Shell Rotella. Make sure that you have an anti-cavitation additive in your coolant (not on all makes of diesels). Finally, buy your fuel at place where big-rigs go, that way you know fuel hasn't sitting in tank for months collecting water and growing algae; be religious about changing the fuel filter, and make sure air filter is clean.
As usual, Walt got to this before I did. He pretty much covered everything.
The current "moron on I95" thread in "towing and hauling" is a definite target. I'll pm you over there.
These engines are built so heavy from the factory that nitrous can be added without doing any engine modifications.
The most important point, I think, was the suggestion of adding a pyrometer for the exhaust.
I believe that they said that the nitrous and propane actually decreased the temps.
Whatever you decide to change to "upgrade" your rig, analyze the return on investment. How many miles until the dollars spent are balanced by the increased miles per gallon, or will the performance increase be worth the expenditure.
Ya know the drill, think it through so you will not be unduly surprised or flat out disappointed.
Enjoy the miles.
Please email me at egawthor@eyemedvisioncare.com
Thank you,
Erik Gawthorpe
If you live in a mountainous region and/or tow all the time, I'd suggest the 4.10. Otherwise the 3.73 should be just fine.
BTW: I get 18+/- mpg empty and 11.5+/- mpg when towing.
Just a word to the wise, F250 diesel can tow it like a charm, you won't exceed the GCWR - combined weight of trailer and vehicle, but it doesn't come with a lot of payload capacity. GVWR - gross vehicle weight rating on a 250 isn't very big considering the size of the truck - the extra weight of diesel engine reduces it further. Suggest that you look into an F350, for about $600 more you get about 1500lbs more payload.
BTW: I'd bet the 9k is the gross weight. Mine grosses about the same.
What kind of mileage do you get with the 3.73 gears on the F350? How are the 4.10 gears for normal driving and mileage? I didn’t know the F350 was that close in price. I will look into them too. The heavier springs would be nice if they’re not too stiff when the truck is empty. I would prefer the automatic transmission to a stick.
Ride of 250/350 is a lot more truck-like than you're used to with the F150, but surprisingly good considering the mass of the vehicle. Actually, ride comfort is more a function of the tire pressures and how heavy you're loaded.
Got to Ford website - they let you "build & price" new truck - you can configure comparable 250s and 350. Not that much difference in price - although that site only shows MSRP.
Supposedly new auto tranny with new 6.0 Diesel is a lot more bullet proof than previous model. Can handle more torque and doesn't require a ton of supplemental cooling when towing. Other folks still prefer control that manual gives them. FYI, if you're in market for new truck - diesel motor is getting a slew of upgrades around December time frame - redesign of turbo, fuel distribution, etc. to solve all(most) of the new motor complaints from the 03 models. Had kind of spotty problems, some motors were gems, others were dogs. Might be worth waiting for - unless some dealer has a year end special that you can't pass on.
Thanks again.
Tahnks again for all the input.
Hans
http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/news/powerstroke_torque.html
http://www.pickuptruck.com/html/stories/2003shootout/page1.html