Diesel Power - Ford/Chevy/Dodge - thoughts ?

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Nicksfix

Nicksfix

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I'm looking into the purchase of a new diesel powered pickup truck,possibly as soon as summer hits.Why a diesel you ask ? Torque - towing capabilities. My specs are relatively simple :

1. Ford - Dodge - Chevy ONLY
2. Diesel power (prefer mating it to a 5 or 6 speed manual trans.)
3. 4x4 configuration (3/4 or 1 ton,not sure on this yet)
4. A few bells and whistles (ps,pw,pdl,ac,cruise,tilt)

I am currently hitting up the dealerships in the area collecting brochures,gathering information,general specs. I also am reading up on these on the internet gathering as much as I can.What I am looking for from you GTPlanet members is possible first hand experience with any of these vehicles

Do you,a family member,a friend have one of these ? Willing to share good or bad information on your experiences with them ? Do any of you work in a Ford,Chevy,Dodge dealership that can possibly shed some light on any of these as far as mechanical issues that you may have experienced ?

Pros and Cons - let it rip here. I'm very interested.

Thanks 👍
 
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Are you looking at brand new models? If so, then you should know that the Chevy diesel is no longer offered with a manual. With that said though, my friend has a 2006 2500 diesel with the 6-speed automatic (with "manumatic" shifting), and it certainly has plenty of power. It also is the LT, so it has the leather interior/DVD player/sunroof/power everything. It looks great and the crew cab has plenty of room in both the front and the rear. Can't think of any problems he's had though.
 
I think GM has had the manual killed on the Duramax for quite some time on the Sierra and Silverado. As I recall, its a big, heavy duty Allison six-speed in there now. Tough as nails, gets the job done. As far as I can recall, Ford has done the same thing with their Super Duty trucks as well. I think Dodge are the only ones who still offer a stick with the Cummins.

My brand preferences would lead me to the Chevrolet/GMC dealer, but I think the reality of the situation would suggest that the Ford Super Duty is likely the best option of the three. Its the newest of the three, arguably one of the coolest-looking ones as well. Still, you're looking at BIG bucks for one of these things. Dig around at your local GM dealer and you can probably walk away with a pretty awesome deal on one. Especially a GMC. I know that's not in the criteria... But its worth a look.
 
I believe that out of the three, Dodge is the only one with the option of a stick shift on a diesel as well. May I ask why you would like a manual? The heavy-duty automatics in all three trucks are plenty smart shifting-wise and get the job done well. Overall though, I would go with Ford's new Super Duty coming out soon (check the Ford website). They have a great variety of new, powerful engines (and the updated frame), which allow for the highest towing and payload ratings of the three trucks. The Ford is also very comfortable to drive, plenty of room, visibility is aplenty, and it is quiet (the 2010 one, anyway). And don't forget durable. Ford and Chevy also look the most promising in our economy's future. I would recommend the Ford F-250 Super Duty with your preference of options. Hope this helps.
 
Hitman
I believe that out of the three, Dodge is the only one with the option of a stick shift on a diesel as well.
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As I said above, Ford offers the manual on all three engines for the Super Duty.

May I ask why you would like a manual?
Click to expand...

Probably the same reason people like a manual in a car, more (perceived) control, fun shifting, cheaper (plus Ford has a standard PTO on theirs).
 
I plan on having a Duramax in my driveway eventually once I've got a real job...The potential of those things is just insane. I've also been smoked by two at the dragstrip...

Anyway, I'd suggest not getting a manual with one if you're going to be towing. I remember the tow ratings dropping a bunch if you opt for a manual on a Cummins, probably down to excess clutch wear. I also don't think that trucks are fun to drive with a manual. I wouldn't hesitate to take an automatic in one. What in particular do you need one of these beasts for anyway?
 
Nicksfix
I'm looking into the purchase of a new diesel powered pickup truck,possibly as soon as summer hits.Why a diesel you ask ? Torque - towing capabilities. My specs are relatively simple :

1. Ford - Dodge - Chevy ONLY
2. Diesel power (prefer mating it to a 5 or 6 speed manual trans.)
3. 4x4 configuration (3/4 or 1 ton,not sure on this yet)
4. A few bells and whistles (ps,pw,pdl,ac,cruise,tilt)

I am currently hitting up the dealerships in the area collecting brochures,gathering information,general specs. I also am reading up on these on the internet gathering as much as I can.What I am looking for from you GTPlanet members is possible first hand experience with any of these vehicles

Do you,a family member,a friend have one of these ? Willing to share good or bad information on your experiences with them ? Do any of you work in a Ford,Chevy,Dodge dealership that can possibly shed some light on any of these as far as mechanical issues that you may have experienced ?

Pros and Cons - let it rip here. I'm very interested.

Thanks 👍
Click to expand...
Could we have a little more info on what exactly you'll be hauling?5th wheel? TAG? Weight of said load?

Right now we have an 08 F450 withe the 6.4TT(compounded) with 4.88 gears. The truck is almost stock; only modification is an aftermarket air filter. Our racing trailer is about 20K when fully loaded with fuel, tools, and load of other things (33x9). The only thing that sucks is the gas mileage (about 10-11 MPG), but I guess that comes with the big truck thing anyways. We had the pleasure of owning an 02 F350 and it couldn't tow or new trailer (blew a transmission within 4 months of weekend towing). I think the 450's have the best turning radius out there now, seeing as they are mostly converted to commercial vehicles and tow trucks. I know there were a few TSB's/recalls on these trucks too. If you know someone who is able to access to AllData, check out your choice of trucks BEFORE you buy them. If you have any more questions about Ford stuff, just ask.

For the new Chevys, the Duramax is a force to be reckoned with. The drivetrain is almost bulletproof, and these trucks can easily make 1000hp. But, you want to tow with it. For highway, its gas mileage is a bit higher, im assuming because of the 6 speed vs the 5 speed with tall gears. However, the back seat is smaller than most cheap motels. If you get the 4-door, dont expect your passengers to be comfortable while on a long road trip. Im about 6'2 and my head and knees hit in the back. As far a quality goes, im not 100% sure. For the brief amount of time that our friend did have his truck, he pulled our old race trailer, a 20x6ft tag ~3K lbs, all the way to Knoxville Iowa from right here in the bay area. IIRC, it took them 28 hours doing about 60-62 the whole way. Nothing happened to the truck.

As for the the dodges on the other hand, all the bros drive them around here. All of them are lifted and have never had anything behind it. Anyone care to share their Dodge knowledge?

EDIT: Maybe you want to hold out for Fords new engine? Its 100% in house, no Navistar this time. I mean, come one, look at this thing:

scorpion-mascot.jpg


Who wouldn't want that under their hood?
 
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neanderthal
Engine; Cummins
Design; GM
Durability: Ford.
Pick one.
Click to expand...

Are you related to a buddy of mine down in Shreve,Ohio ? He told me the exact same thing,word for word !!!!!. It's too bad that we can't get the best of all 3 worlds though.:boggled:

buickgnx88
Actually, the Ford site still shows that you can get the manual on the Super Duty for all three engines (unlike Dodge, which is only on the diesel).
http://www.fordvehicles.com/trucks/superduty/specifications/engine/
Click to expand...

I talked to a Ford sales rep,he tells me that you can get a manual trans. with a diesel.When I talked to a Dodge rep,he told me that Dodge does not offer the manual trans. with a diesel.:indiff:

YSSMAN
I think GM has had the manual killed on the Duramax for quite some time on the Sierra and Silverado. As I recall, its a big, heavy duty Allison six-speed in there now. Tough as nails, gets the job done. As far as I can recall, Ford has done the same thing with their Super Duty trucks as well. I think Dodge are the only ones who still offer a stick with the Cummins.

My brand preferences would lead me to the Chevrolet/GMC dealer, but I think the reality of the situation would suggest that the Ford Super Duty is likely the best option of the three. Its the newest of the three, arguably one of the coolest-looking ones as well. Still, you're looking at BIG bucks for one of these things. Dig around at your local GM dealer and you can probably walk away with a pretty awesome deal on one. Especially a GMC. I know that's not in the criteria... But its worth a look.
Click to expand...

I've not talked to a GM dealer yet.As I mentioned above,Dodge tells me that they do not offer a manual trans. with a diesel.


Hitman
I believe that out of the three, Dodge is the only one with the option of a stick shift on a diesel as well. May I ask why you would like a manual? The heavy-duty automatics in all three trucks are plenty smart shifting-wise and get the job done well. Overall though, I would go with Ford's new Super Duty coming out soon (check the Ford website). They have a great variety of new, powerful engines (and the updated frame), which allow for the highest towing and payload ratings of the three trucks. The Ford is also very comfortable to drive, plenty of room, visibility is aplenty, and it is quiet (the 2010 one, anyway). And don't forget durable. Ford and Chevy also look the most promising in our economy's future. I would recommend the Ford F-250 Super Duty with your preference of options. Hope this helps.
Click to expand...

Manual trans. as said by buickgnx88 on the post below - more control of shifting. I've heard horror stories on the Allison transmission.That does not necessarily mean that they are bad units,it could very well be driver abuse.Guys thinking they have a H.D. truck and just push it a bit too hard.Dodges automatics still have issues from what I am gathering.I know this also first hand.A year ago,the trans in my Dodge let loose,quite pricey to repair,luckily,it somehow got covered under an extended warranty.It does help,thanks.


opendriver
Could we have a little more info on what exactly you'll be hauling?5th wheel? TAG? Weight of said load?

Right now we have an 08 F450 withe the 6.4TT(compounded) with 4.88 gears. The truck is almost stock; only modification is an aftermarket air filter. Our racing trailer is about 20K when fully loaded with fuel, tools, and load of other things (33x9). The only thing that sucks is the gas mileage (about 10-11 MPG), but I guess that comes with the big truck thing anyways. We had the pleasure of owning an 02 F350 and it couldn't tow or new trailer (blew a transmission within 4 months of weekend towing). I think the 450's have the best turning radius out there now, seeing as they are mostly converted to commercial vehicles and tow trucks. I know there were a few TSB's/recalls on these trucks too. If you know someone who is able to access to AllData, check out your choice of trucks BEFORE you buy them. If you have any more questions about Ford stuff, just ask.

For the new Chevys, the Duramax is a force to be reckoned with. The drivetrain is almost bulletproof, and these trucks can easily make 1000hp. But, you want to tow with it. For highway, its gas mileage is a bit higher, im assuming because of the 6 speed vs the 5 speed with tall gears. However, the back seat is smaller than most cheap motels. If you get the 4-door, dont expect your passengers to be comfortable while on a long road trip. Im about 6'2 and my head and knees hit in the back. As far a quality goes, im not 100% sure. For the brief amount of time that our friend did have his truck, he pulled our old race trailer, a 20x6ft tag ~3K lbs, all the way to Knoxville Iowa from right here in the bay area. IIRC, it took them 28 hours doing about 60-62 the whole way. Nothing happened to the truck.

As for the the dodges on the other hand, all the bros drive them around here. All of them are lifted and have never had anything behind it. Anyone care to share their Dodge knowledge?

EDIT: Maybe you want to hold out for Fords new engine? Its 100% in house, no Navistar this time. I mean, come one, look at this thing:

scorpion-mascot.jpg


Who wouldn't want that under their hood?
Click to expand...

5th wheel hitch,expeditor hauling with an 18 ft. trailer

I have heard rumour of this engine,very interesting for sure.



Thank you so far for all of your input. 👍
 
buickgnx88
Dunno why the Dodge rep said a manual doesn't come with the Cummins, since it shows right on the Ram site!
Click to expand...

I've seen that throughout my internet browsing as well.Perhaps I just talked with the wrong sales rep.When I ask him this,he said "misprint". I'll talk to another Dodge dealer and see what they say about it.In fact,I'm going to talk to different dealers of these makes and compare to what they have to say.Possibilities could be that they only know cars and not enough about H.D. trucks.
 
Well if they still say it isn't offered, just point them to the January issue of Petersen's 4 Wheel and Off Road magazine, where they asked Dodge themselves and they say the Ram Heavy Duty is offered with a manual. :sly:
 
^

There's a thought,thanks. 👍

See if they tell me that the magazine is a "misprint" as well. :dopey::lol:
 
Aye. If you want a Cummins Ram, GET THE STICK. My uncle has a Cummins 2500 with an auto...I dunno how many times that thing's been in the shop for some kind of tranny repair. Can't speak for Ford or Chevy/GMC diesel drivetrains. I've driven an '08 petrol Chevy 2500...I'm not that huge on the base interior. Bad plastics everywhere. The "manual" gate on that, too...bloody useless. Takes forever for the tranny to get the message, and it knows what it's doing better in auto mode, anyway.

One thing I should say...If you like your front end, Don't get a plow kit. First time you use it, it'll screw it all up. It's simply too much for the front end of most modern trucks to handle...most guys I've talked to have said that it ruins ball joints and the like.
 
I don't think the interior in the Chevrolet/GMC is that bad, its just not quite as good as whats offered in the Super Duty. Although its more Oranges to Tangerines, our Avalanche is essentially the same thing on the inside - Its pretty nice, I'd say. We spent a lot of time considering whether or not we'd want a crew cab Silverado or an Avalanche last year when we bought new, and the differences were pretty small on the inside. The Avalanche rode better, and that was about it. There may have been a little more leg room in the Silverado (I'm 6ft, 165lbs)... But its not enough to get all that worked up about.

Not that its entirely relative these days, Motor Trend has a comparison of the previous-gen HD trucks available here from 2004. That test would include the Cummins Ram, Harley Davidson Super Duty, and the Sierra 2500 HD Duramax.
 
Jim Prower
Aye. If you want a Cummins Ram, GET THE STICK. My uncle has a Cummins 2500 with an auto...I dunno how many times that thing's been in the shop for some kind of tranny repair.

One thing I should say...If you like your front end, Don't get a plow kit. First time you use it, it'll screw it all up. It's simply too much for the front end of most modern trucks to handle...most guys I've talked to have said that it ruins ball joints and the like.
Click to expand...

I do prefer a manual for sure,as said before,more control of the transmission.Dodge is still having issues with their automatics from my understanding,they are getting better,but still not quite there in the H.D. line of things.
From what I'm seeing,Ford and Dodge appear to have the better looking interiors,although it does not quite appear as roomy as GM's.
Snowplows - no way - never will happen. I've seen what plows do to the front ends of trucks as well. :ouch:

YSSMAN
I don't think the interior in the Chevrolet/GMC is that bad, its just not quite as good as whats offered in the Super Duty. Although its more Oranges to Tangerines,The Avalanche rode better, and that was about it. There may have been a little more leg room in the Silverado (I'm 6ft, 165lbs)
Click to expand...

I think Ford and Dodge have the Chevy on the interior looks,however Chevy's appears to be a little more roomy,(I'm 5'10' / 175).
Thats my understanding on the ride,that GM's is a little more cushy as compared to Ford and Dodge.
 
Wouldn't exactly call the work truck's ride "Cushy," But it's a 3/4-1 ton truck. Unless you get some weight on the back (or yank a few leaves out, not recommended unless you never tow or haul,) it won't exactly ride well. The better-equipped trucks will feel better despite the capacity.
 
:lol: - ok,not cushy,lets just call it a better ride.
True,being a H.D. it is not going to ride like a Cadillac,it's going to have that truck ride for sure.
 
Depends on the suspension package you've got on there. As I recall, Chevrolet/GMC gives you some options with their trucks. I think that with the Ram and the Super Duty, you're stuck with the standard stuff.

Thing is, Ford makes the King Ranch. No matter how awesome the Denali may feel to me, the King Rance is just... Wow.
 
+1

That King Ranch package on F250 Super Duties and even the Expedition is a high quality piece of work!
 
Lipstick on a pig.

It still rides like a farm implement.

Heck my brothers Lincoln Navigator rides worse than my 40 year old BMW 2002. I'm not talking about corner carving and canyon slicing; i'm talking about normal everyday bumps and potholes on the streets.

You can never convince me that a truck is a luxury car unless it is designed as one from the git. So only the Range Rover is a luxury truck to me. The others are way, way too compromised by their truck origins.
 
If you're looking for a truck, ride quality should not be a major concern.

That being said, mine doesn't bother me at all. And this is coming from a person who regularly jumps between an F150, Mustang, and Escape
 
King Ranch Ford's are very nice but pricey.

If you are planning on fitting the truck with a plow, pass on the diesel. Diesels have enough nose weight without the extra couple hundred pounds of plow bolted to the front.
 
I wouldn't recommend a pickup truck with a plow, anyway. Like I said, our work 2500's ball joints are now all out of whack thanks to the plow kit, and it's got the Vortec 6000.
 
Pickup's are fine with plows, I know plenty who use pickups and SUV's for plowing. I don't know anyone who expects to add 300+lbs to the front of a truck (and put it 1-2 feet forward of the front bumper, mind you) and not expect it will result in extra wear and abuse on the front suspension. Be it a little Mazda B-series or a Silverado HD.

Same thing happens to my friends with SUV's who bolt big heavy brush gaurds to the front and put massive aftermarket stereos in back, then wonder why their suspension is shot in 20,000 miles or less.
 
mustangGT90210
If you're looking for a truck, ride quality should not be a major concern.

That being said, mine doesn't bother me at all. And this is coming from a person who regularly jumps between an F150, Mustang, and Escape
Click to expand...

If you're looking for a truck, should luxury be a concern?

I don't know about you, but I equate luxury with a quiet, smooth, supple ride.

I consider the Gator to be a truck. And I hop between that, the 2002, a Mercedes E320, and a Camry. The Camry, materials aside, is more of a luxury car than the truck. Refinement is possibly better than the E320, except for a droning noise on long journeys, flat unsupportive seats and a slightly wallowy suspension.
 
Ram 2500 or 3500 Cummins Turbo Diesel with a 6 speed manual GO
The interior of the new Ram is tasty (for a truck anyway...)
 

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