How to Pick a Pickup

scape2 · March 1999

Isn't torque you want in a truck not horsepower?
Test drive them all, then make your choice.

aaron8 · March 1999

lovel1
yes, test drive them all. with your duties that you want your truck to do, you'd better get the best. something that won't break. something you don't have to sugarfoot around. get a diesel at least.

gablazer · March 1999

Currently looking to get a new truck and am looking at the F-350 Super Duty Powerstroke Diesel
with the manual trans with crew cab long bed with
single rear wheels. Next step is to buy some land
so I can turn it around.

Another possibility is a similar Chevy/GM product.

Had considered the Dodge Ram 2500 but at the auto
show last weekend here in Atlanta I discovered just how little room there is in the back of any truck that is not a Crew Cab.

Comments?

stanford · March 1999

You just described the '93 I drove before my current truck ('99 CC LWB DRW 4X4 V10). As a go-anywhere do-anything vehicle, you can't beat that combination.

You may want to consider the V10 -- I love diesels, and it took a lot for me not to get another one, but the new V10 is quite the engine. With the additional cost/maintenance of the diesel, I worked out that it wouldn't pay for itself in fuel savings until ~100,000 miles, at which point it would be out of warranty (and diesel repairs out of warranty are expensive.

If you just like the way the diesel feels though, or you do a lot of long-distance highway driving, go for it. Its one hell of a truck.

f250ownr · March 1999

I used a service to when looking for my F250 called FordDirect.com. They seemed to respond to my request quickly and gave a direct quote. It may be worth a try for online shopping.
For what its worth....
http://www.forddirect.com

bonvec · March 1999

This is a must read if you are considering a Ford cab and chassis. 1. most ford dealers and salesman do not know that a mid ship gas tank is available at no charge. This not the tiny 19 gal aux. but a full 29 gal.tank. 2. 38 gal. tank in rear makes aftermarket applications near impossible. In fact I wanted to put a hydraulic tailgate on and it is impossible due to computers and pressurized lines. This lesson is costing me about 3000 bucks as I must sell this truck and buy another and pay the sales tax a second time. Unfortunately I bought this truck at Klaben
Ford in Kent and their sales and service departments are incompetent as they were trying to sell me 976 bucks worth of parts to fix their mistake , luckily I was able to find a ford mech. to look at it and he just shook his head . Couldn't believe they would sell me a truck like this when they knew from previous complaints that outfitters couldn't mount tail gates due to the tank being to large. The salesmanager said I didn't do my homework so don't make the same mistake I did. AND STAY AWAY FROM KLABEN FORD IN KENT THEY ARE RIPOFF ARTISTS.

aversano · April 1999

I am considering purchasing a used pickup that I will use for pulling a bass boat (also not yet purchased). I would like to not spend more than $10,000 and want some comforts, i.e., air conditioning, AM/FM tape, power steering and automatic transmission.

I suspect that the total boat with trailer will not exceed 5000 pounds.
I would like the following advice.

What manufacturer offers the best buy in a used truck that can haul this boat?

What size engine and accessories should I look for?

What year truck should I expect to buy?

What mileage should I expect the truck I look at to have?

Suggestions as to the best (safest/reliable) way to buy this truck?

stanford · April 1999

Any half-ton truck with a V8 should be able to haul that boat of yours. Will you be driving it often, or just to tow the boat occasionally?

jwaters · April 1999

I've got my eye on a used 97' Dodge, 3500 with a V-10, 3.54 rears and auto trans. Do any of you folks have any experience with this combo in terms of fuel economy and reliability? I plan on towing a fifth wheel trailer weighing about 13000#. I'd appreciate any comments pro or con. Thanks very much. Jim

kashg · May 1999

looking for a new smaller sized pick up 1999 model. Would like the extended cab with the extra seating. have a wife and 11 yr son. Would there be enough room for him and should I go with a 3/4 door. Any suggestions on makes or models?

denisd · May 1999

looking to buy a shortbed F250 cc, and one of the items we will be hauling is a snowmobile 1 or 2 times per year. The bed of the truck 6 1/2' + the length of the gate when it is down. Should I have any concerns about it not fitting?

jcmdie · May 1999

That depends on how long the snowmobile is.

denisd · May 1999

Not entirely sure how long the snow mobile is, but I suspect it'd "average" - whatever that is. It's a mid-range Ski-doo touring model, about 4 years old. I know it's going to hang over the end somewhat, but I don't want it to hang over too much.

molecule · June 1999

Great after reading most of the comments in several topics,I'm still at square 1.
I test drove all three Chevy, Ford & Dodge,only sat in the Tundra.All 1/2 ton V8 auto Excab's
IMO
the Dodge is uncomfortable and the gas mileage figures people are quoting are not up to Ford or Chevy

the Ford ,not as roomy inside and didn't handle as well as the Chevy.Liked the Lariet was Comfortable
TheChevy ,Had the 5.3 V8 was an LT ,very comfortable and I felt it was the best for me ,
The chevy dealers want sticker for the vehicle ,and its too long to fit in my garage.
So now im leaning toward the F150 Lariet with the 4.6 V8 with the leather bench seats . Thanks for your imput Bill

aaron_a · June 1999

I second that...

Owner of a new 99 SLT GMC Sierra.. Great Truck!

lowerkeeney · June 1999

densid....

Did you get that 250 yet? You may want to try http://www.forddirect.com for at least a quote. I think they have dealers set up from coast to coast to give direct quotes. It may be worth a try. Good luck on your 250, I think you'll be happy with the Superdutys we definitely are.

qb1 · June 1999

I have a question which is better, Chevy S10 or Toyota Tacoma? Looking for a 4 cylinder 5 speed, that has good gas mileage and is a reliable mode of transportation. I've heard Toyota is more reliable, what do you think?

selmagirl · June 1999

I am about to purchase my first truck. Currently looking at Ford F series, Chevy Silerado, and the Toyota Tacoma. Don't need anything too powerful, but do need it to be comfortable for those 5 hr trips to my lakehouse. Any suggestions?

ericg · June 1999

solar yellow

marniem · June 1999

I am trying to find information about Ford pick-ups (1970 - 1989). I am about to buy one and want to find out which years have less mechanical problems, recalls, gas mileage, prices, etc. I want an F250 or F350 with a V8, standard cab. Any suggested years or resources where I can find this information? Thanks.

scape2 · July 1999

Between a Tacoma/S-10 I would say Tacoma is more reliable. As for the Tacoma/Ranger its even steven as far as reliability goes.
Have you also test driven the Frontier by Nissan?

cpariseau · August 1999

I am thinking about buying a new pick up truck...
I want one to have enough power to pull a boat
about 5000 lbs. I am impressed by what I see with the Dodge Dakota witht he V-8 engine. I am also looking at the f150 pick up as well. I want to know if anyone out there is using a dakota to pull anything as big a as a boat.

chirs

gaspereaux · August 1999

I am considering unloading my Hyundai Elantra wagon and getting a PU with Ext cab. I want to use it for a variety of tasks but the most demanding will be to lug around a slide on camper (Idon't have that yet either). I presume that the PU must have at least a 2500 lbs payload capacity.

Can anyone advise me as to what my type of PU I should buy.

Thanks

Richard Murray
Randolph, MA

rfinnegan · August 1999

I'm going to buy a Dodge 2500 Quad 4x2diesel and need to know real fast what rearend, and anything else I should get. I will be pulling a 5th wheel with it in about 3-4 yrs. /The reason no 4x4 is I wouldn't use it

jsaxon · August 1999

What is the difference between the Tacoma "Pre Runner" 2WD and the Tacoma 2WD. I am buying this just for normal road use and merely hauling garden supplies like mulch,dirt,etc. so what type Tacoma should I consider(v4 or v6,2 or 4 wd.....)
THANKS

morgan10 · August 1999

My Father and I are looking into buying a truck for my Mom. She had a van, but she's about done it in. She takes our dog with her everywhere, and also owns a horse and is always toting around wood shavings, horse feed, saddles, groceries, and our smelly dog. We're not looking for a heavy duty truck, just one that will do the job, with extended cab (often my younger sister and I are being hauled around too!), and moderately priced. Any suggestions?

zcowgal · August 1999

HELP! Will be buying Ford turbo diesel to pull goose neck 3 horse trailer w/liv quarters, 21.5' long. Trailer is aluminum, tho weight of it and steel are close to same wt. Am considering either F250 SD Crew SWB ~or~ F350 SD Ext Cab LWB DRW. Don't really want a dually, but am concerned that the F250 SD Crew SWB won't be enough truck, safety wise. Loaded weight of trailer will be very close to max that F250 allows. What should I do?

jcmdie · August 1999

Most people that tow a lot prefer to have a margin on the truck's towing capacity. If it's a once in a while thing the 250 should do fine. If you intend to push the limit regularly,buy more truck. It'll pull better and with less repairs.

vk5blg · September 1999

Considering Ford F-250, 4X4,Auto, SD, SC, SB, V10 for occasional pulling 5th wheel. The remaining 9 months of the year this will be used as my go to the store or coffee shop with my cronies vehicle. Any info on fuel mileage and problems will be appreciated.

doickle · September 1999

If your going to tow a goose neck do not get a SWB truck. For the price your going to pay for a 3/4 ton PU you can pay just a little more and get a ton PU which will handle the weight better. A dully, in my opinion would give you a safer vehicle for pulling your horses around. I've been a trucker for the past 36 years (just retired) and don't know how many times I've seen stock trailers laying on their sides out in the middle of an interstate. Remember this golden rule "it takes weight to hall weight". Four wheels in the rear will give you a more stable platform for your horse trailer.
I know that I'll get some slack on my opinion but I'm a believer in having a vehicle that's heavyer than required because of the safety factor.
Remember not only are you obligated for the safety of your horses but you are obligated for the safety of others who share the highway with you.
Have fun: Don

kbutcher1 · September 1999

Can anyone tell me the pro and cons of towing a 27-29' 5th Wheel with a short bed pickup. I am ready to order my truck and need to find out if a long bed is the best way to go.

Thanks,

Keith

jraske · September 1999

I am concidering buying a 2000 F350 crewcab 4x4DRW
V-10 Lariat the dual wheels are going to be mostly for looks since I will never haul more than a 10ft cabover camper and a 18ft boat.From talking to other owners I hear these trucks are great,and get between 12 and 16 mpg.
I would like to hear comments from other owners of Ford super duties as well as other makes.

mdavid3 · September 1999

I have heard that the V-10's are getting between 10-12 empty and as bad as 6 towing; and the Diesels are getting above 17 empty or loaded. can anyone back this up?

eddieo1 · September 1999

LOOKING FOR INFORMATION ON THE DEKOTA PICKUP 1997
GOOD OR BAD

albertschmitz · September 1999

Under normal conditions the V10 will get 10 to 15 mpg and they tow in the 6mpg range. The Diesel is easier to get and the fuel economy toing is about double.

speedster121 · September 1999

I'm about to purchase an F-250 SD CrewCab SWB XLT, and I have a few questions. First of all, I have absolutely no serious need for this truck, except towing a 4,000lb boat on the weekends for a short distance. I mainly want this truck for its look and size. I have two questions:
1)Should I go PowerStroke or V-10? I have the upfront money, but is maintenance on the Diesel going to cost later, and is the Diesel REALLY last that much longer and save that much on fuel?
2)Is maintenance and repair on a machine like this outrageous? Once the warrenty is up, I'm I going to be forking over a King's ransom to fix my truck? Are the tire expenses THAT bad?
Any comments, criticisms or pointers would be greatly appreciated.

andy_jordan · September 1999

To address the diesel vs. gas issue. It sounds as though gas is going to be better for you. Diesel engines are really designed to take a regular heavy handling - they like nothing more than being run for long periods of time, and there lies the big advantage.

If you are going to use the truck for regular commuting / shopping etc. then the gas is the one to go for - diesels don't like short trips. Doesn't sound like you need the pulling power of the diesel either.

Gas is going to give you fewer mpg, but not a huge cost on a truck of this cost - and it sounds as though you can afford it (!)

In terms of reliability, it is like everything else, there are good and bad trucks (and good and bad drivers). If you treat the truck right you are likely to get fewer problems, and you are looking domestic so parts aren't going to be excessive.

Yes tires are expensive - the bigger the tire the more the cost, but buy quality and work out the cost per mile - it is ridiculously low.

Just my .02 for what its worth.

speedster121 · September 1999

Andy,

Thanks for the response. I make a decent living, but this purchase is going to be possible b/c of a sum of money that I'm getting unexpectedly. Now, I know that there are smarter things to do with this money, but I really want this truck. My point is, that I have the money NOW to buy the diesel. Everyone talks about the "break-even point" on the extra cost of the diesel, but I figure at a mere 4mpg on a 30gallon tank that is an extra 120 miles a tank that I can go. That is almost 3 round trips to work. I am a little concerned about the cost out of warrenty, but the mileage just seems to be a big factor. Thanks again and let me know what you thank.

gdekel · September 1999

After reading this thread I am VERY confused. I want to buy a 4x4 pickup. Will be hauling one or two canoes or a small cartoper, plus fishing and paddling gear. No towing. Mostly just me and maybe my son, occasionally 1 or 2 grand kids, so I want an extended cab even if it's a bit cramped. Don't need a back door. Will not be doing any comuteing with this. I was thinking of a dodge dakota, but maybe a ford 150 will suit me better. Also I don't want to finance so maybe a late model used is a better choice for me. Does anyone want to weigh in with advice or comments? TIA

andy_jordan · September 1999

gdekel,

I am bound to say go Dakota, because I am a Dodge head, but I will try to be a little more objective.

It doesn't sound like you are going to do much heavy duty work so a compact pick up should be OK. You seem to be looking domestic so the choice is S10, Ranger or Dakota.

That said the canoes are likely to be fairly bulky - I don't know exactly what size they are but this may be what is pushing you towards a Dakota / F150 choice.

The Dakota is larger than the other compacts, but is smaller than the F150 or comparable larger trucks (Sierra / Silverado or Ram 1500). It also has a 6 1/2 ft bed with the club cab (only 5 1/4 feet with quad cab).

I guess the main decision between Dakota or F150 is personal choice and cost. Test drive them both and see how comfortable you are with the larger feeling of the F150 as opposed to the Dakota, consider what they will be like for day to day (city?) driving. Even things like will they fit in your garage comfortably.

Finally, I guess the engine choices will figure in to the decision, if you get dakota, please avoid the 4 cyl. It is too small for a truck, even without doing much carrying. It sounds like the 3.9 V6 would be ideal for you. Whilst the engines are obviously different there is a comparable choice in F150. V8 is probably excessive for your needs, but if you want it then you can get it on either truck.

Personally it doesn't sound like you need a full size truck, but I am also aware that a well equipped Dakota is not much different in cost than a reasonably equipped F150.

As I said at the start I have a Dodge bias, and I own a Dakota, but hope this helps.

dallas75 · September 1999

I basically agree with Mr. Jordan, sounds like the 2 best choices for you would be the F-150 or the Dakota. Another consideration would be the maximum amount of gear you would be loading up with. The Ford with the 8-foot bed and ex-cab would be the best bet for the canoes plus supplies for a extended fishing trip. This combo would also be useful with a topper for sleeping in on a overnighter. You may also want to consider both the Silverado or the Toyota Tundra just for comparison sake. Half the fun in selecting a vehicle is driving different makes and irritating sales people.

andy_jordan · September 1999

dallas - not seen too many posts from you before, so here are a couple of pointers:

1) Please call me Andy, only the police call me Mr. Jordan

2) Please be careful in agreeing with me - it could get you thrown out of here tee hee.

Can't argue with your points though.

dallas75 · September 1999

No problem Andy, I get the same treatment from our local folks in blue!

richranger1 · September 1999

I want to buy an F-250 supercab, superduty.....anyone know who has some super deals. I priced a 2000 F-250 supercab, superduty for 28,900. Thanks for your help.

Rich--Indianapolis

moudry1 · September 1999

I TO AM PONDERING THE LONG BED, SHORT BED CHOICE. I NOW OWN A 98' C 1500 SHORT BOX, BUT WANT TO UPGRADE TO A 00' 3/4 TON 4X4 TO PULL OUR 5500# 23' TRIALER. I RACE MOTOCROSS AND WOULD LIKE THE EXTRA CARGO SPACE FOR MY BIKE AND GEAR. I WOULD ALSO LIKE THE EXTRA SPACE FOR BUILDING MATRIALS, ECT. THAT I OCASSIONALY HAUL. ANOTHER CONSIDERATION IS THE ADDED STABILITY WITH THE LONGER WHEELBASE. BUT THAT SHORT BOX LOOKS SO MUCH BETTER AND WHAT ABOUT MANEUVERABILITY? I TEST DROVE THE LONG BOX AND LIKED IT, BUT WHAT ABOUT TIGHT PARKING LOTS ECT.? I HAVE A SHORT BOX AND THINK I WISH I HAD A LONG BOX. ANY OF YOU LONG BOX OWNERS THINK THE OPPOSITE? LONG BOX AND RV PULLERS PLEASE RESPOND.

kernick · September 1999

First I believe you're talking regular cab right? not extended.
The longbed on a reg. cab does look a little gawky, but if you put a cap on that's a big improvement. The shortbed is inconvenient. I would definitely suggest getting the longbed and dress it up like I said. It's what $300 difference.
Also you'll be happier with that longer wheelbase towing.
If you live in the city yeah you may have some parking problems, but not in typical lots, such as a Walmart or grocery store.

moudry1 · September 1999

IT WILL BE EXTENDED CAB. CAN'T PUT A CAP ON, BIKE WON'T FIT.

mledtje · September 1999

The size of the gas tank can be major factor. Short bed comes with 25 Gal, Long bed comes with 34 gal tank. If you drive in empty country that can be a problem.

Guess 10mpg towing, that is 90 miles.

Mike

grimes2 · September 1999

I want to buy a 2000 3/4 ton 4X4 diesel to be used eventually for pulling a 29 ft 5th wheel. I have read most of the entries in this site and have summed them up. If you can enlighten me on the following, please do so.

Is cavitation still a problem with diesels? Is it a problem with both Ford & Dodge?

I read about many concerns regarding major diesel repairs after about 130,000 miles. Is that a common problem or isolated cases? What type of repairs are needed? Costs? For both Dodge and Ford?

The Dodge reportedly has had transmission problems. With the 2000 they have supposedly switched to an Allison tranny. However, the dealer tells me that the Allison is used for the 6 speed manual; Dodge uses the same automatic transmission that Ford uses? Is that correct? Does Dodge have a problem with their automatics?

Dodge uses a glow coil; Ford glow plugs. What are the advantages/disadvantages?

Dodge bodies have a reputation of falling apart. Has that improved?

Dodge seems to have better creature comforts than Ford? Any one agree? Disagree?

The Ford bed is too high for some pickup/slide-in campers to load/unload. The cab of the Ford is too tall for slide-in campers without building a platform to set the camper on - thus, aggravating the prior problem? Is this also a problem with the Dodge? Any suggestions?

Is there anyone who has valid experience with both the Dodge and Ford? Everyone seems to have their feelings about one or another - but do they have experience with both?

Looking to buy soon. Please help.

babsriggs · September 1999

I'm wondering. If I have 15,000 to spend. What sorts of trucks should I look for? I'll be towing a 2 horse gooseneck with living quarters. It's a heavy steel job. Total weight will be 4,000 more or less. Thanx for the advice

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