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Old 11-02-2014, 09:32 AM   #1
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I'm a little disappointed with how my 1/2 ton pulls my TT. Pulled from Kentucky to Florida on I-65 and it did an ok job. I'm sure taking I-75 through Chattanooga or going east crossing the Appalachians would be a bunch of work and slow speeds I wouldn't be comfortable putting up with. I plan to pull to the west coast next summer and tour around the mountains in between so I'm looking to upgrade to a Diesel 3/4 ton. I'm considering that trip, the possibility of a bigger TT in the future and eliminating the payload limitations inherent with the 1/2 ton.
I hear good things about the Chevy Duramax and I've never owned anything but GM all my life so my search has started for the Chevy's/GMC's. I'm looking to buy used - 1 to 2 yrs old.
I've never owned a diesel before - are they maintenance headaches?
What kind on mileage have you experience with the diesels?
Anyone had bad experiences with Duramax and thus would recommend a Ford or Dodge?
Anything else I should consider or be concerned with in making this purchase decision?
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Old 11-02-2014, 10:00 AM   #2
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Im a Ram guy myself but I have buddy's that have duramax and they seem to be a great engine also
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Old 11-02-2014, 11:25 AM   #3
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I have run many diesels in my life and there is no better engine for towing. Maintenance is minimal just like the fuel injected gas engine in today's technology. As with all vehicles drive and maintain them proper. If I see heavy black smoke coming out a diesel truck or car, then I shake my head. Then you will burn valves in a diesel and you're in for costly maintenance. Also the extra engine cost is only justified when you make the miles. But what the hack if you love a diesel just for the sake of fun......get one. The general rule with a TV is to better have reserve then being under powered. It gives a driver a lot of discomfort with a line up behind. In Europe the speed limit for truck and trailer (also TT's) 80 km (50 mi) on the freeways (Secondary highways is 60 km (40 mi). Here in North America the average is 100 km (63 mi) which takes a lot more power. Well go for that Duramax, GM learnt their lessons after all their diesel engine failures since the late 70's. On the moment they offer 0% on new, then at least you know what you get.........warranty.
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Old 11-02-2014, 12:22 PM   #4
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Dodge guy here. My last three trucks (2005 Ram 2500, 2011 Ram 3500 dually, 2013 Ram 3500 srw) were all diesels. I really loved the 5.9 liter in my 2005 but the 6.7 pulls like a freight train.

Maintenance costs are what they are. Probably more than a gas job but the extras you get in towing make it worth it. My big advice (particularly if you buy a Dodge) is the new diesels are not good daily city drivers. They have to be worked or they end up in regen mode.

The gas guys will chime in I'm sure, but no current dealer offered gas engine will produce the combination of hp and torque of a diesel. My Cummins is 385 hp and 850 torque. A big gasser will definitely tow and in many cases do it well, but my diesel does it effortlessly. I don't think you can go wrong with either the Powerstroke or the Duramax either.

In any event buy what makes you look out your kitchen window at the driveway, for no apparent reason (guy thing).
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Old 11-02-2014, 01:03 PM   #5
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Personally, if you're a GM guy, you likely won't be happy with anything but. I have a 6.0 Ford which has had its share of issues. From what I've read, the Dodge is probably the more reliable of the 3.

In the end, it's more than just the engine, you've got to love the rest of the truck too.
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Old 11-02-2014, 03:08 PM   #6
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I had a Ford diesel and after a small fortune in repairs I bought a GMC Duramax. I had a lot of Ford gassers and they were good trucks. Did a lot of research and drove a lot of miles in Dodge and GM before I purchased the GMC. I decided against the Ford as they have been changing motors so often it is hard to get a proven long term track record. My decision on the GMC came down to comfort, proven track record and quite. The Dodge has some good features and I like the cab storage compartments. It will boil down to personal preferences. You may want to look close at a new rig as to a rig only 1 or 2 years old. I bought a new one after rebates for the same price I would have needed to pay for an almost new unit.
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Old 11-04-2014, 09:16 AM   #7
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you cant go wrong with a duramax or a cummins, both great motors and they tend to have good trans behind them

i had a ford 6.0 for a week and sent it back to the dealer because it was such a POS i ended up with a 07 6.7 dodge and could not be happier, i pulled a 12,000ish lbs park model on the weekend for over 4 hours and didnt even break a sweat
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Old 11-04-2014, 09:22 AM   #8
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I have a 2013 Ford with the 6.7 powerstroke. It's a great engine. Between 13-14 mpg pulling my fifth wheel and boat combo (about 12k lbs). 17 city and about 21 highway without. Maintenance isn't a headache. Higher costs (I use 13 qts of oil, and fuel filters need to be changed often). Otherwise turn the key and go. I don't think you can go wrong with and of the big 3 diesels right now. Look for which you like best, price and warranty. Ford had issues with diesel in the past with the 6.0 and 6.4 but it won't be a problem if you are looking for a newer one. Different manufacturer.
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Old 11-04-2014, 09:57 AM   #9
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D-max's are GREAT. Just remember when coming off the highway to let it idle for 2 min to cool off before you shut down.. doing this is cheaper than replacing the turbo. mine always gets synthetic lubricants. Always change your fuel filter when you do an oil change.
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Old 11-04-2014, 10:52 AM   #10
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I have been nothing but happy with my Duramax. I don't think you'll go wrong with any of the diesels. I loved my Sierra 1500 but towing with it was just ok. With the Duramax 2500 towing is great.
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Old 11-04-2014, 10:57 AM   #11
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Chevy D-max is the best diesel that we use in our pull trucks on the farm. They take incredible abuse and run strong in terrible conditions. We do fine the 6.0 has to work well also just a bit slower getting to speed and some issues with knock censers. We pull 10k trailers in 4x4 through sandy fields 10 hours a day.
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