Hi TWW,

I am looking for a diesel work truck. Looking to spend less than 5,000. Must have the ability to be able to tow 3,500 pound boat or a loaded lawn trailer. Are there any brands or engines to avoid? I would prefer a newer higher mileage truck (post 1990-unless there is a great deal older truck). If any one knows where to look other than the obvious (cars.com, Craig list etc...) that would also be helpful. So what should I expect or look for in my search? Thanks!

5/16/2007 9:26:54 AM

'94-early '98 Dodge Cummins D2500. But it'll be a cold day in hell before you find one for under 5 grand. 6 or 7 grand, it's a good possibility. The trucks aren't the highest quality on the face of the earth, but the engines are wonderful, and so are the manual trannies (autos aren't so great).

I'm not a big fan of Ford Powerstrokes, and again, you won't find one that cheap very easily. However, the earlier 7.3 IDI engines ('93 and earlier) make fine work trucks. Just be sure that you get one that has had the cooling system serviced regularly...they tend to cavitate and eat through the rear cylinder walls if neglected.

Stay away from the Chevy/GMC 6.5 Turbo. Great truck, not so great engine.

Any diesel you buy will be able to tow about twice what you want to pull, so I wouldn't worry about that too much.

5/16/2007 9:38:45 AM

http://raleigh.craigslist.org/car/322461768.html

maybe?

5/16/2007 10:16:01 AM

why diesel if you're only towing that much?

5/16/2007 2:09:33 PM

The reason I want a diesel is so that I can use bio-diesel or WVO. Plus there will be times were I will be towing a ditch witch/heavy equipment. Also my price is flexible if I see something I like I will pay more than 5000.That Ford looked pretty nice and it had 200,000 miles. That should be fine for a diesel. I plan on selling the truck after about a year and a half so this is just an intermediate truck. What’s the 'safe' max on mileage? 250,000 or more.

5/16/2007 2:42:02 PM