in your business what type of trucks do you have? if you have any rams, how are they holding up with all the abuse you give them? Do you perform regular maintenance on your trucks? thanx in advance
nocarters: I agree that the Silverado is a better looking truck than the F-150. However, I'm not willing to buy one and run the risk of having to deal with the bugs that seem to plague this truck. Many posts in other topics within this conference relating to the Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra discuss problems with shimmying/shaking at various speeds that cannot be curred despite numerous trips to the dealer for tire rotations, tire balancing, replacement of all tires and other failed attempts to cure the problem. Other posts address squeaking problems that cannot be fixed, unusual or inexplicable oil leaks and engine failures. One Silverado buyer had to have the entire engine replaced after 5000 miles. The authors of these posts seem extremely disappointed in the Silverado. Several of them discuss pursuaing claims against GM under their respective states' lemon laws.
I own a roofing firm and have branched out into the demolition industry; ie:interior demolition only: refabbing offices and the like. We own all sizes of trucks from half-tons to tri-axle dumps. The truly heavy-trucks were all bought used but all light-duty(one,3/4,half ton) are purchased new. We maintain service through a garage of my cousin's who also services other owner-operators. Regular maintenance is a must for our company. I wouldn't even want to consider the alternative. Warranty work is done by the dealers. Rams? We have four total. Surprisingly to myself, they have held up better than the GM products of similar model years. I would recommend with a side-bar: Watch for axle and wheel bearings to fail if under constant stress and abuse. The engines have been reliable if nothing else. I still prefer Ford due to my own personal history of costing less in the long run for service. I could ramble on but my fingers are getting tired....... ---- Tomorrow, maybe I'll elaborate.
Thanks for the info. What year are the rams that you own? And do you have any tranny problems?
Just to let you know why I am so curous...I ordered a 2000 ram 1500 4x4 sport quad cab. So i want to know what to expect. I figure if I keep up the maintenance it should last as long as I want it to.
Dear PBWJR: Despite the problems you are reading about in the Silverado posts, I do think that other people with Fords/Dodge/Toyota are experiencing problems too (different ones). Don't forget, the percentage of people who actually posts their problems on this website are very small. No one likes to deal with buying a new truck and having to take it back to the dealer numerous times, however, don't single out the Silverado.
However, since demand for the Siverado is SO extreme that GM can't keep up with orders, you may as well opt for a different kind of truck, the wait from order until delivery is excrutiating.
95 and 96 are the model years of the Rams in question. We had a slipped tranny in one of the 95s but was taken care of by the dealer due to warranty. He did tell me to expect more problems with the others though due to reputation of those model years. I would hope that by now you shouldn't have to worry much. As I am led to believe, Dodge has improved their trannys over the past few years due to the problems. Have fun with your new truck!
I don't need a truck. I really don't need a F-250 SD. I really, really don't need 4 wheel drive or a V-10. I am in the Navy and currently have no use for all this. I bought for looks, excellent vision on the road, and if I want to, in the future, drive in snow, tow, carry camper, or whatever... I can! Those of you b**tching about people like me can Kiss my *ss! It is my $28,000 and I earned it!! Right now I would settle for a Yugo as I am walking everywhere in Japan!! No offence intended to anyone.
on Consumer Auto Insider:HARLEY-DAVIDSON KICK STARTS A NEW LTD PICKUP In a great marketing strategy move, Ford announced it is teaming up with Harley to make a limited edition F-150 pickup. Expect lots of chrome and leather, including the Harley-Davidson logo stitched to the back of the seats. This is a great match up since many bikers own Ford trucks.
Just some sarcasm at some older posts! I think some people are insulted that other people own trucks that don't use them. I bought a truck because I wanted it.
I understand what you mean about wanting something, but not necessarily using it. I have some CD's that I've only listened to once, shoes in my closet in the box yet, and 5 extra toothbrushes. So don't feel alone if you're walking rather than driving that truck. Besides in Japan those minicars would probably get sucked into your engine and clog the air filter.
mccdon1, I like to [non-permissible content removed] because it makes me feel good. Maybe I tend to get irritated when some clown, who knows nothing about trucks mind you, criticises me for my purchases. Gee big truck guys, I own over 30--maybe I might know what I'm talking about? Go right ahead and buy your truck and I honestly hope you will enjoy it. Navy? Now long ago, I was a Marine and I would like to know how you are going to pay for that truck!!!! LOL!
planejane, Good observation on the harley connection. Since I own both Harley and Honda, maybe a limited edition of a Toyota made in Indiana as well??
I have been in for 14+ years and will become a "Mustang" Officer next week. I also paid all my debts while in exile in Guam! Where and when did you do your time in the Marines? I promise no Marine jokes!
My decision for the truck was based on what I learned here, and personal taste. If I don't enjoy the truck, I will never admit it to my friends who hear me talk about it every day!! LOL
That Harley Ford is supposed to be availible next spring,it will have an exhaust that sounds like a harley along with 20" rims the biggest ever on a factory truck.
;-) I don't think Harley would agree to that co-venture! That's a cute idea, I could just picture it. East meets west. Haha.
Can you imagine the truck with that Harley roar? I can't take that noise on a motorcycle! Sorry guys.
mccdon1: You started out real intense (when I 1st read your post), but you seem like you're alright! I'm sure you will enjoy your truck no matter what you use it for. I intend to trash mine (well, put it to good use anyway).
I was just having fun on the first post, I couldn't wait for someone to respond In my job I have to pretend to be intense even when I am not, sometimes it can be real fun! I will baby my truck until the first scratch, then I will beat the hell out of it!!
That harley ford is a co-venture,it will be a special edition for the next five years a limited edition,ford and harley both agree that most bike owners also own pickups so they agreed on a limited edition f150,
Is the tundra considered a full size or a midsize I read an article in Motor Trend calling it a midsize comparing it to the dakota,the dakota's wheelbase is actually longer but the tundra is 2" longer overall and almost a foot shorter than a fullsize truck,this was based on the dakota extended cab and the tundra xtra cab.
I think we paid about $23800 for our Silverado; could have been better, could have been worse, but I know we got skinned on the trade-in (well, they are pros). Like it so far (2k miles, first oil change today, first road trip coming in 2 weeks). So far, 16.5-18.6 mpg, no vibration. Only irritation so far is the automatic headlites and door locks.
mccdon1, At a foolish age in high school, 17, I decided to be a jar head. I entered at 18 after graduating and regretted my decision for three years until I got the hell out in 82. I wasted time in Panama at the Rodman Naval base. After a five month stint on the FFG-16, I wanted out. Got out and went to school in Philadelphia working as a roofer paying the bills. I then decided that I didn't need to wear a tie and still make a ton load of money so I stuck with roofing. I may just be the most educated roofer in this town! Just joking!! Marine jokes? Fine by me! I have a few as well but I'm hampered by the rules of this site.
tomfitz, For that price, what size engine did you receive and with what type of additionals? I hope it works out fine for you.
I know I am a little late to the ball on this one, and everyone is going to see the posting from me and assume a fanfare for Dodge........but:
The reason why there are so many yuppie truckers here, is that trucks are so flexible they appeal to all buyers. It doesn't matter what you use it for the space always comes in handy, the height is great etc.
Yes I am a yuppy driver, but I also have a big dog, a need to carry a light but bulky dog sled, and tow a 23' cabin cruiser.
Oh yeah, and I paid $37,700 Canadian bottom line (about $150 US) for a 230hp V8, that can tow over 6,000#, carry me in comfort, and has all the toys I could possibly want. Now that's value.
I may not be a truck expert, but neither do I attack on subjects I know nothing about, yes I enjoy banter with other regulars here, but if they have opinions other than mine, good for them - its not my fault if they are all wrong - Tee Hee.
Just remember Dodge rules - now I think I'll sit back and wait for the attacks.
GM offered a press release yesterday stating the availability of the new Duramax 6600 diesel and the Allison 1000 5-speed automatic for the 2001 Silverado/Sierra 2500HD/3500 trucks. Despite dave40s post reporting 300hp and 520 lb-ft, this release states that "for competitive reason", GM will not announce the final power ratings until just before production begins, although they do claim besyt-in-class, and made note in the PR to say that competitors must detune diesels because of the limitations of the automatics available (hint Dodge).
No information was released ast to manual trnasmisions, although the NV5600 6 speed used by Dodge with the Cummins is a sure bet, since GM and DaimlerChrysler co-own New Venture.
Word has also not been released as to whether these new trucks will join Ford and Dodge in having solid-axle front ends in 4x4 configuration.
DETROIT, Sept. 8 /PRNewswire/ -- The 2001 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty (HD) pickups, scheduled to go into production next fall, will be available with an all-new Duramax Diesel engine and an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission from Allison Transmission. These new powertrain options promise to make diesel-equipped HD Silverado and Sierra pickups best- in-class in terms of power, performance, torque, durability and quiet operation. Gary White, Vehicle Line Executive, Full-Size Trucks, GM Truck Group, said, "GM's all-new full-size pickups have set new industry benchmarks. In this case, we've parlayed our relationships with Isuzu, the world's largest producer of diesel engines, and Allison Transmission, the world's largest producer of commercial-duty automatic transmissions, to create a powertrain combination that will deliver more of just about everything to truck customers with heavy-duty or commercial requirements." Later this calendar year the company will roll out all-new full-sized sport utilities -- the new Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, as well as the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL. Then, next fall, GM will introduce its 2500HD/3500/3600 Series pickups, including Crew Cab, Big Dooley and Chassis-Cab models. "GM President, Rick Wagoner, has described the full-size truck platform as 'the economic engine that drives General Motors,' and he wasn't exaggerating a bit," White said. "That's why it's so important that every truck we bring out based on this platform be a leader in its segment. The new engine and transmission options we're announcing today will help us put the newest versions of the Silverado and Sierra into exactly that position." Heavy Duty and Commercial Diesel Demand Growing The growth in the pickup truck market over the past decade has been outstanding, and the portion of that market devoted to users with heavy duty hauling and/or towing needs has grown apace. This is especially true for trucks equipped with diesel engines. "Ten years ago, the industry sold less than 10,000 diesel pickups a year in the United States," White said. "Today, customer requirements for more power and torque, coupled with a need for more efficiency and durability, have raised demand far beyond that. We think we'll see industry sales of more than 250,000 diesel pickups a year in the very near future. "Competition is fierce out there, so we know we have to provide a product that is head-and-shoulders ahead of our competitors if we hope to be successful," White added. "We believe the all-new Duramax Diesel 6600, coupled with the new 5-speed Allison Transmission 1000 Series(TM) automatic transmission will be such a product. This combination gives us performance capabilities that our competitors can only dream about." Duramax Diesel 6600 V8 The Duramax Diesel 6600 is an all-new, 90-degree V8 with Bosch common-rail direct-injection and an overhead valve (OHV), four-valve-per-cylinder design. It replaces GM's current 6.5-liter turbo diesel and will provide Silverado/Sierra 2500HD/3500 Pickup and Chassis-Cab customers with best-in-class power, performance, fuel efficiency, reliability and durability. In addition, it will provide best-in-class noise/vibration/harshness characteristics ... virtually eliminating the noise, shake and roughness often associated with diesel powerplants. The new engine will meet Federal and California emissions requirements, allowing it to be sold in all 50 states, and has been designed to meet government regulations well into the 21st century. The Duramax Diesel 6600 is the second in a totally new, growing family of GM-branded Duramax engines. The first was the Duramax 7800 (7.8-liter) Diesel introduced by GM for use in its 2000 model year medium-duty series trucks. The Duramax engine family is the result of a joint venture (DMAX Ltd.) between GM and Isuzu Motors. GM's relationship with Isuzu began in 1971 and was strengthened in 1997 when GM announced that Isuzu would develop diesel engines for GM. Because of Isuzu's expertise in commercial vehicles and diesel engines, the company plays an important role in GM's global strategy. Isuzu is a world leader in diesel engine design and development, and has produced more than 60 million diesel engines in the past six decades. The Duramax Diesel family is domestically sourced, and will be produced in a brand-new DMAX, Ltd. facility in Moraine, Ohio. Allison Transmission 1000 Series(TM) 5-speed Automatic Transmission Most of the diesel engines installed in light-duty trucks, including those of GM's primary competitors, have to be restricted in terms of power output because the automatic transmissions being used with them cannot handle more horsepower and torque. That's the new Allison Transmission 1000 Series 5-speed's reason for being. It's specifically designed to handle all of the horsepower and torque the new Duramax Diesel 6600 can deliver, and Allison Transmission's hard-earned reputation for reliability and durability in commercial-duty applications ensures that Chevy and GMC customers will enjoy the benefits and bottom-line savings that they expect and deserve. The 1000 Series is a fully automatic, electronic 5-speed with overdrive and a park pawl, and it offers planetary helical gearing similar to that now used in Allison Transmission's popular World Transmission. It will be produced in Allison Transmission's Indianapolis, Ind. manufacturing facility, which has recently been updated and expanded as the result of a $275-million investment by GM. The 1000 Series(TM) is ideal for general use in trucks of up to 19,850 lbs. gross vehicle weight (GVW) and 26,000 lbs. gross combination weight (GCW). It features 5-speeds forward (with 5th gear as overdrive), a torque converter with lockup clutch and integral spring damper, and fully electronic controls. Allison Transmission, part of the GM family since 1929, was originally founded in 1915, and is the world's leading designer, manufacturer and seller of medium- and heavy-duty automatic transmissions. SOURCE Chevrolet Motor Division CO: Chevrolet Motor Division; General Motors Corporation; Isuzu; Allison Transmission ST: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana
TRUCK FORCE CHIEF NOW "DEAD MULE JAKEY" -- HOW MANY STRANGE WAYS HAVE YOU PUT YOUR TRUCK TO USE? Best Stories Win Truck Force Action Prizes!! In my neck of the woods, when the Amish don't know your name, you'll probably be called "Jakey" sooner or later. My time was sooner when I received a scratchy phone call from an "Amish Pay Phone Booth". (They keep phones away from where they live, often in shacks where rain fouls-up the connection and voice quality.) The voice on the other end was unmistakeable, an Amishman. "Hey", says he "you're the hearse driver for mules aren't you Jakey?" Half asleep, I thought some buddy was putting me on, so I said, "ya, sure, you got Jakey the mule hearse man." "What can I do for Abner", I enquired? (You call all Amishmen Abner if you don't know their names.) "Well, I got this mule ain't doing me no good no more cause he's dead and I gotta get him outa the front of my place cause my Wife don't like dead things and it's startin' to sticnk some, you know." "In a flash of brilliance, I replied, "I guess it does ... don't all dead mules stink Abner?" "Yeah, Jakey, you got that right and I'm Milo, not Abner." "Abner's my cousin." Do you know him Jakey?, he asked rather suspiciously." No, I don't really know Abner well", said I, "but how do I get to your place to get the mule?" "It's gonna cost you fifty bucks and you've got to have the men to load it on my truck." "It's against my Religion to lift dead mules." "Really, Jakey, and what religion might that be?" I told him I was sorry but that it was also against my Religion to tell him the name of my Religion. "That would be too Worldly", I said. He replied, "Well Jakey, I certainly understand that, but do you think you could make it $35.00 for the mule carcass?" I shouted, "Hell no, I was going to get you for $75.00 plus mileage but I kinda felt you were the type of man that deserves a break." "Maybe not." "Oh no Jaakey", he said quickly, "I am that type of man and I deserve a break for true" "Fifty it'll be and you'll get no more argument from me." "To get to my place, you first pass Intercourse on the way toward White Horse, passing Bird-in-Hand and when you get to the big street in Blue Ball, turn left and go 2.7 miles to the white place with a red barn and a green roof on the house ... that's me" "Name Milo Stoltzfoos is on the box." "You can't miss it." Wearing my full respirator mask and blasting the AC, I drove my Black Beauty into Milo's spread just past dusk to see some 15 Amishmen, several with Coleman Lanterns lighting-up the huge, dead mule. They told me it weighed between 1200 and 1500 lbs. dead. With a hoist hanging out of the upper barn window and hundreds of feet of 1" manila line, they manhandled the dead thing into my well protected cargo area (I'd stopped and bought a throw-away plastic drop cloth at the Hardware store to protect my sano super machine.) My Super Duty shocks and struts hardly budged when they dropped the big dead thing into the truck. Milo tried writing a check, but I reminded him about my Religion and how we only deal in cash. He looked cheated because he couldn't cheat me, which he'd loved to have done, and I blasted off the renderers. The Flowmasters made a beautiful sound on that quiet country night and Amish Farm, and just getting $50. from an Amishman is a jackpot rarely duplicated in my experience. If you need Jakey's Hearse, Just call Truck Force Dave. Next time I'll tell you about the $1,000.00 fine I helped a friend pay to his nasty ex -wife. He took 50,000 pennies and dumped them into my truck bed filled with corn syrup (on protective plastic sheeting). My job was to dump the whole load in her front yard and give her a note from him that said something like, "Here's your grand [non-permissible content removed], I hope you have fun taking it to the bank! She yelled, screamed and groaned and I told her, I'm Truck Force Dave, alias Jakey the Hearse Man, I can't help you ... I just deliver in style!! If you've got a good story (and they have to be better than these), send them with pictures if possible and we'll make you a WEB-SITE STAR and send you a Truck Force Gift of great value. Well, sort of great. http://community.webtv.net/dp2000/TRUCKFORCEACTION
You read about the highest performing high-performance truck event ever... There have been many envious responses to this posting. I've been amazed sincerely Truck Force Dave.
Call it what you like, but one thing we can agree on. Ducati is not overhead cams. Desmo = pushrods. And pullrods. Because that's how that engine works. No valve springs. The same rod that opens the valves by pushing on it, shuts it by pulling on it.
Now I said World Superbike, did not say 650's. Troy Corser was one guy I saw whipping up on Scott Russell and his Muzzy Kawasaki. Beating up on poor Jamie James and Colin Edwards Yamahas too. I think Miguel Duhamel might have been the other Duc rider. Always out front, just about everytime I watched Cycle World, but it hasn't been recent.
After today, I'll be on vacation for two weeks, and will be back on Monday October 11th. The Ram and I are making a road trip from NJ to Dallas to visit some friends - 1500 miles each way, so stay tuned for "Anecdotes from the Interstate" in the Road Trips topic (#376) in the News & Views conference here at Town Hall.
I am now the proud owner of an F250 XLT 4X4 supercab with the 5.4 and 3.73 limited slip.I couldn't drive the lightning in town Boston any more it was getting ruined by all the construction.The F250 is just as much fun to drive as tha lightning.
Quad, I'll trust your explanation of the Duc motor-even though, you'll have to agree that it is unique. It's 600 and 750 class--there is no 650 for racing. Duhamel? I always thought he rode Honda? Either way, my point to ZBADDD was that claiming push-rod tech as superior to OHC was a stretch.
Rocles, It's not Duhamel, you're right. I can't think of his name. World Superbike Champion. Still, agree 100% push-rod not superior to OHC, but GM has refined it to the functional equivalent for trucks.
Barlitz, I'm shocked at you, but think you have a much more useful truck now. I did see a "White Lightnin' today that was hot, but I'd take your F250 any day.
Working on construction site downtown Boston the lightning was becoming less and less more practicle,especially with winter coming. The F250 is a great truck although I do miss the speed and performance of the lightning,I may do some minor mods to the 250 like exhaust and maybe K&N.Do you know of anything I could do ?
Hi Barlitz, There is a website that modifies a Ford truck to get more power and better gas mileage. It's not a super duty, but it still should be of assistance in deciding what to add. The website is: http://www.performanceunlimited.com/projectmpg/
I don't think you'll ever get the power of the Lightning out of a F250. The size, weight, gearing, etc., etc., will make it impossible without spending a whole lot of money. But, you should be able to get a little more out of it. I just ordered a new 2000 Sierra 1/2 ton, more for performance than work (although I will do some work with it). Performance wise 1/2 tons I believe are the best. For work 3/4 or a 1 ton - I espically like the Superduties. I hope you got either the V-10 or a better choice would be the powerstroke for your F250. I've said it before that GM makes probably the best gas engines right now, and Ford has a lock on diesels, Dodge is somewhere inbetween and falling behind. What do you think???
Trading in my lightning was a very hard decision,I had to get the best value and leave feeling pleased with my decision,I have an F250XLT light duty 4 door, 4x4 supercab with the 5.4 triton 3.73 limited slip,auto,factory tonneau,4 wheel abs,all terrain tires,tow package,keyless entry, remote start, alarm.the truck is loaded all options,it is bright red clearcoat with chrome rims and tinted out windows,I would like to change the exhaust and get a K&N fuel injection kit and upgrade the stereo.I know the lightning can't be replaced but the lightning can't go through 12" of snow, with the F250 or any full size 4x4 for that matter you feel like you could probably go anywhere it is a much more practical truck and in the long run will hold its value better.
Quad, Ducs are awesome fine crafted machines. But believe me when I say if you let the Japanese bikes have 900 cc instead of 750 there would be no comparison. Anyway I ride mostly dirt on my dual sport Husaberg now. I'm still on the fence over a new 6.0l G.M.C. or S.D. v-10 my lease is up on my 150 and like all my past Fords it's been near flawless. It's just every time zbad71 opens his mouth it pushes me toward the Ford. Take care, Jack
The lightening would be fun for a while, but up here in snow country it's just so impractical. You'd probably blow away just about anything in the summer and get whipped by a 4 cyl. S-10 4X4 in the snow. I wish they would make a performance 4X4. Horsepower for the 5.4L is 260 this year up from 235 - either way it's a strong motor and a little tweaking should be able to produce 300. What's nice about the new silverado/sierra is that it has 2 cats that feed into one muffler making it very easy to upgrade. I don't know about the Fords, but Gibson makes a system that you can bolt on yourself in about a 1/2 day. I don't know about you, but I'm extremly picky about what's done on my vechiles and doing it myself definately appeals to me - a greater sense of satisfaction probably at a lower price. I too am looking for a K&N filter and ignition system - any ideas on what a high output coil cost and the effectivness of them?? Good luck with the F250!!
Thanks,you are exactly right about the S-10 in the winter.I just got a JC Whitney catalog in the mail today I was gonna flip through it and get some ideas,I would like to get some step rails and I would like to look into the exhaust system,I will also check on the K&N and get back to you on this site.
I just got a aftermarket catalog in the mail today. I didn't order it at all! The must know I'm getting a new truck some how. I'm definately getting a exhaust and K&N filter. Was also thinking about a high output coil (ignition). I've heard you get increased mileage and power, but have heard there expensive. Do you know anything about them?? Think I'm also going to get a sunvisor, spray in bedliner, and would like a CD/Cass. Unfortunately, you can't get the CD/Cass in the Reg. Cab., but everywhere I've looked they've been over $500 - too much! I've heard the best thing to do for exhaust is go to a couple of shops - most the time they have everything in the catalogs and stuff even better. Good Luck..
Comments
thanx in advance
Eric G
john
I own a roofing firm and have branched out into the demolition industry; ie:interior demolition only: refabbing offices and the like. We own all sizes of trucks from half-tons to tri-axle dumps. The truly heavy-trucks were all bought used but all light-duty(one,3/4,half ton) are purchased new. We maintain service through a garage of my cousin's who also services other owner-operators.
Regular maintenance is a must for our company. I wouldn't even want to consider the alternative. Warranty work is done by the dealers.
Rams? We have four total. Surprisingly to myself, they have held up better than the GM products of similar model years. I would recommend with a side-bar: Watch for axle and wheel bearings to fail if under constant stress and abuse. The engines have been reliable if nothing else.
I still prefer Ford due to my own personal history of costing less in the long run for service.
I could ramble on but my fingers are getting tired.......
Just to let you know why I am so curous...I ordered a 2000 ram 1500 4x4 sport quad cab. So i want to know what to expect. I figure if I keep up the maintenance it should last as long as I want it to.
Eric G
Despite the problems you are reading about in the Silverado posts, I do think that other people with Fords/Dodge/Toyota are experiencing problems too (different ones). Don't forget, the percentage of people who actually posts their problems on this website are very small. No one likes to deal with buying a new truck and having to take it back to the dealer numerous times, however, don't single out the Silverado.
However, since demand for the Siverado is SO extreme that GM can't keep up with orders, you may as well opt for a different kind of truck, the wait from order until delivery is excrutiating.
95 and 96 are the model years of the Rams in question. We had a slipped tranny in one of the 95s but was taken care of by the dealer due to warranty. He did tell me to expect more problems with the others though due to reputation of those model years. I would hope that by now you shouldn't have to worry much. As I am led to believe, Dodge has improved their trannys over the past few years due to the problems. Have fun with your new truck!
In a great marketing strategy move, Ford announced it is teaming up
with Harley to make a limited edition F-150 pickup. Expect lots of
chrome and leather, including the Harley-Davidson logo stitched to
the back of the seats. This is a great match up since many bikers
own Ford trucks.
So don't feel alone if you're walking rather than driving that truck. Besides in Japan those minicars would probably get sucked into your engine and clog the air filter.
I like to [non-permissible content removed] because it makes me feel good. Maybe I tend to get irritated when some clown, who knows nothing about trucks mind you, criticises me for my purchases. Gee big truck guys, I own over 30--maybe I might know what I'm talking about?
Go right ahead and buy your truck and I honestly hope you will enjoy it.
Navy? Now long ago, I was a Marine and I would like to know how you are going to pay for that truck!!!! LOL!
planejane,
Good observation on the harley connection. Since I own both Harley and Honda, maybe a limited edition of a Toyota made in Indiana as well??
My decision for the truck was based on what I learned here, and personal taste. If I don't enjoy the truck, I will never admit it to my friends who hear me talk about it every day!! LOL
Can you imagine the truck with that Harley roar? I can't take that noise on a motorcycle! Sorry guys.
mccdon1: You started out real intense (when I 1st read your post), but you seem like you're alright! I'm sure you will enjoy your truck no matter what you use it for. I intend to trash mine (well, put it to good use anyway).
Can't wait any longer...
Mac
Now remember that the Viper motor does in fact fit under the hood of a Ram
kcram
Community Leader/Smart Shopper Conference
Is the tundra considered a full size or a midsize I read an article in Motor Trend calling it a midsize comparing it to the dakota,the dakota's wheelbase is actually longer but the tundra is 2" longer overall and almost a foot shorter than a fullsize truck,this was based on the dakota extended cab and the tundra xtra cab.
kcram
Community Leader/Smart Shopper Conference
At a foolish age in high school, 17, I decided to be a jar head. I entered at 18 after graduating and regretted my decision for three years until I got the hell out in 82. I wasted time in Panama at the Rodman Naval base. After a five month stint on the FFG-16, I wanted out. Got out and went to school in Philadelphia working as a roofer paying the bills. I then decided that I didn't need to wear a tie and still make a ton load of money so I stuck with roofing.
I may just be the most educated roofer in this town! Just joking!!
Marine jokes? Fine by me! I have a few as well but I'm hampered by the rules of this site.
tomfitz,
For that price, what size engine did you receive and with what type of additionals? I hope it works out fine for you.
The reason why there are so many yuppie truckers here, is that trucks are so flexible they appeal to all buyers. It doesn't matter what you use it for the space always comes in handy, the height is great etc.
Yes I am a yuppy driver, but I also have a big dog, a need to carry a light but bulky dog sled, and tow a 23' cabin cruiser.
Oh yeah, and I paid $37,700 Canadian bottom line (about $150 US) for a 230hp V8, that can tow over 6,000#, carry me in comfort, and has all the toys I could possibly want. Now that's value.
I may not be a truck expert, but neither do I attack on subjects I know nothing about, yes I enjoy banter with other regulars here, but if they have opinions other than mine, good for them - its not my fault if they are all wrong - Tee Hee.
Just remember Dodge rules - now I think I'll sit back and wait for the attacks.
No attack.
LOL
See - so full of rage I can't type
eh?
No information was released ast to manual trnasmisions, although the NV5600 6 speed used by Dodge with the Cummins is a sure bet, since GM and DaimlerChrysler co-own New Venture.
Word has also not been released as to whether these new trucks will join Ford and Dodge in having solid-axle front ends in 4x4 configuration.
kcram
Community Leader/Smart Shopper Conference
Also interesting that GM outsold Ford F series in august.
The 2001 Chevy Silverado and GMC Sierra heavy-duty (HD) pickups, scheduled to go into production next fall, will be available with an all-new Duramax Diesel
engine and an all-new 5-speed automatic transmission from Allison Transmission. These new powertrain options promise to make diesel-equipped HD Silverado
and Sierra pickups best- in-class in terms of power, performance, torque, durability and quiet operation.
Gary White, Vehicle Line Executive, Full-Size Trucks, GM Truck Group, said, "GM's all-new full-size pickups have set new industry benchmarks. In this case,
we've parlayed our relationships with Isuzu, the world's largest producer of diesel engines, and Allison Transmission, the world's largest producer of
commercial-duty automatic transmissions, to create a powertrain combination that will deliver more of just about everything to truck customers with heavy-duty or
commercial requirements."
Later this calendar year the company will roll out all-new full-sized sport utilities -- the new Chevy Tahoe and Suburban, as well as the GMC Yukon and Yukon XL.
Then, next fall, GM will introduce its 2500HD/3500/3600 Series pickups, including Crew Cab, Big Dooley and Chassis-Cab models.
"GM President, Rick Wagoner, has described the full-size truck platform as 'the economic engine that drives General Motors,' and he wasn't exaggerating a bit,"
White said. "That's why it's so important that every truck we bring out based on this platform be a leader in its segment. The new engine and transmission options
we're announcing today will help us put the newest versions of the Silverado and Sierra into exactly that position."
Heavy Duty and Commercial Diesel Demand Growing
The growth in the pickup truck market over the past decade has been outstanding, and the portion of that market devoted to users with heavy duty hauling and/or
towing needs has grown apace. This is especially true for trucks equipped with diesel engines.
"Ten years ago, the industry sold less than 10,000 diesel pickups a year in the United States," White said. "Today, customer requirements for more power and
torque, coupled with a need for more efficiency and durability, have raised demand far beyond that. We think we'll see industry sales of more than 250,000 diesel
pickups a year in the very near future.
"Competition is fierce out there, so we know we have to provide a product that is head-and-shoulders ahead of our competitors if we hope to be successful," White
added. "We believe the all-new Duramax Diesel 6600, coupled with the new 5-speed Allison Transmission 1000 Series(TM) automatic transmission will be such a
product. This combination gives us performance capabilities that our competitors can only dream about."
Duramax Diesel 6600 V8
The Duramax Diesel 6600 is an all-new, 90-degree V8 with Bosch common-rail direct-injection and an overhead valve (OHV), four-valve-per-cylinder design. It
replaces GM's current 6.5-liter turbo diesel and will provide Silverado/Sierra 2500HD/3500 Pickup and Chassis-Cab customers with best-in-class power,
performance, fuel efficiency, reliability and durability. In addition, it will provide best-in-class noise/vibration/harshness characteristics ... virtually eliminating the noise,
shake and roughness often associated with diesel powerplants.
The new engine will meet Federal and California emissions requirements, allowing it to be sold in all 50 states, and has been designed to meet government regulations
well into the 21st century.
The Duramax Diesel 6600 is the second in a totally new, growing family of GM-branded Duramax engines. The first was the Duramax 7800 (7.8-liter) Diesel
introduced by GM for use in its 2000 model year medium-duty series trucks.
The Duramax engine family is the result of a joint venture (DMAX Ltd.) between GM and Isuzu Motors. GM's relationship with Isuzu began in 1971 and was
strengthened in 1997 when GM announced that Isuzu would develop diesel engines for GM. Because of Isuzu's expertise in commercial vehicles and diesel engines,
the company plays an important role in GM's global strategy. Isuzu is a world leader in diesel engine design and development, and has produced more than 60
million diesel engines in the past six decades.
The Duramax Diesel family is domestically sourced, and will be produced in a brand-new DMAX, Ltd. facility in Moraine, Ohio.
Allison Transmission 1000 Series(TM) 5-speed Automatic Transmission
Most of the diesel engines installed in light-duty trucks, including those of GM's primary competitors, have to be restricted in terms of power output because the
automatic transmissions being used with them cannot handle more horsepower and torque.
That's the new Allison Transmission 1000 Series 5-speed's reason for being. It's specifically designed to handle all of the horsepower and torque the new Duramax
Diesel 6600 can deliver, and Allison Transmission's hard-earned reputation for reliability and durability in commercial-duty applications ensures that Chevy and
GMC customers will enjoy the benefits and bottom-line savings that they expect and deserve.
The 1000 Series is a fully automatic, electronic 5-speed with overdrive and a park pawl, and it offers planetary helical gearing similar to that now used in Allison
Transmission's popular World Transmission. It will be produced in Allison Transmission's Indianapolis, Ind. manufacturing facility, which has recently been updated
and expanded as the result of a $275-million investment by GM.
The 1000 Series(TM) is ideal for general use in trucks of up to 19,850 lbs. gross vehicle weight (GVW) and 26,000 lbs. gross combination weight (GCW). It
features 5-speeds forward (with 5th gear as overdrive), a torque converter with lockup clutch and integral spring damper, and fully electronic controls.
Allison Transmission, part of the GM family since 1929, was originally founded in 1915, and is the world's leading designer, manufacturer and seller of medium- and
heavy-duty automatic transmissions.
SOURCE Chevrolet Motor Division
CO: Chevrolet Motor Division; General Motors Corporation; Isuzu; Allison Transmission
ST: Michigan, Ohio, Indiana
STRANGE WAYS HAVE YOU PUT YOUR TRUCK TO USE? Best Stories Win Truck Force Action Prizes!! In my neck of the woods, when the Amish don't know your name, you'll probably be called "Jakey" sooner or later. My time was sooner when I received a scratchy phone call from an "Amish Pay Phone Booth". (They keep phones away from where they live, often in shacks where rain fouls-up the connection and voice quality.) The voice on the other end was unmistakeable, an Amishman. "Hey", says he "you're the hearse driver for mules aren't you Jakey?" Half asleep, I thought some buddy was putting me on, so I said, "ya, sure, you got Jakey the mule hearse man." "What can I do for Abner", I enquired? (You call all Amishmen Abner if you don't know their names.) "Well, I got this mule ain't doing me no good no more cause he's dead and I gotta get him outa the front of my place cause my Wife don't like dead things and it's startin' to sticnk some, you know." "In a flash of brilliance, I replied, "I guess it does ... don't all dead mules stink Abner?" "Yeah, Jakey, you got that right and I'm Milo, not Abner." "Abner's my cousin." Do you know him Jakey?, he asked rather suspiciously." No, I don't really know Abner well", said I, "but how do I get to your place to get the mule?" "It's gonna cost you fifty bucks and you've got to have the men to load it on my truck." "It's against my Religion to lift dead mules." "Really, Jakey, and what religion might that be?" I told him I was sorry but that it was also against my Religion to tell him the name of my Religion. "That would be too Worldly", I said. He replied, "Well Jakey, I certainly understand that, but do you think you could make it $35.00 for the mule carcass?" I shouted, "Hell no, I was going to get you for $75.00 plus mileage but I kinda felt you were the type of man that deserves a break." "Maybe not." "Oh no Jaakey", he said quickly, "I am that type of man and I deserve a break for true" "Fifty it'll be and you'll get no more argument from me." "To get to my place, you first pass Intercourse on the way toward White Horse, passing Bird-in-Hand and when you get to the big street in Blue Ball, turn left and go 2.7 miles to the white place with a red barn and a green roof on the house ... that's me" "Name Milo Stoltzfoos is on the box." "You can't miss it." Wearing my full respirator mask and blasting the AC, I drove my Black Beauty into Milo's spread just past dusk to see some 15 Amishmen, several with Coleman Lanterns lighting-up the huge, dead mule. They told me it weighed between 1200 and 1500 lbs. dead. With a hoist hanging out of the upper barn window and hundreds of feet of 1" manila line, they manhandled the dead thing into my well protected cargo area (I'd stopped and bought a throw-away plastic drop cloth at the Hardware store to protect my sano super machine.) My Super Duty shocks and struts hardly budged when they dropped the big dead thing into the truck. Milo tried writing a check, but I reminded him about my Religion and how we only deal in cash. He looked cheated because he couldn't cheat me, which he'd loved to have done, and I blasted off the renderers. The Flowmasters made a beautiful sound on that quiet country night and Amish Farm, and just getting $50. from an Amishman is a jackpot rarely duplicated in my experience. If you need Jakey's Hearse, Just call Truck Force Dave. Next time I'll tell you about the $1,000.00 fine I helped a friend pay to his nasty ex -wife. He took 50,000 pennies and dumped them into my truck bed filled with corn syrup (on protective
plastic sheeting). My job was to dump the whole load in her front yard and give her a note from him that said something like, "Here's your grand [non-permissible content removed], I hope you have fun taking it to the bank!
She yelled, screamed and groaned and I told her, I'm Truck Force Dave, alias Jakey the Hearse Man, I can't help you ... I just deliver in style!!
If you've got a good story (and they have to be better than these), send them with pictures if possible and we'll make you a WEB-SITE STAR and send you a Truck Force Gift of great value. Well, sort of great.
http://community.webtv.net/dp2000/TRUCKFORCEACTION
"DODGE"
thx
Are you happy in your world? What's up with these stories? Serious question-bud-not trying to hammer you.
Now I said World Superbike, did not say 650's. Troy Corser was one guy I saw whipping up on Scott Russell and his Muzzy Kawasaki. Beating up on poor Jamie James and Colin Edwards Yamahas too. I think Miguel Duhamel might have been the other Duc rider. Always out front, just about everytime I watched Cycle World, but it hasn't been recent.
Catch you all later!
kcram
Community Leader/Smart Shopper Conference
Barlitz
Quad,
I'll trust your explanation of the Duc motor-even though, you'll have to agree that it is unique. It's 600 and 750 class--there is no 650 for racing. Duhamel? I always thought he rode Honda?
Either way, my point to ZBADDD was that claiming push-rod tech as superior to OHC was a stretch.
Barlitz, I'm shocked at you, but think you have a much more useful truck now. I did see a "White Lightnin' today that was hot, but I'd take your F250 any day.
There is a website that modifies a Ford truck to get more power and better gas mileage. It's not a super duty, but it still should be of assistance in deciding what to add. The website is:
http://www.performanceunlimited.com/projectmpg/
-powerisfun
Take care, Jack
Good Luck