Went from '97 F150 to '99 Ford Explorer to '02 F250 (gasser) to '05 Ram 1500 HEMI to '06 F350 to '12 F350.
I would never go back to a gasser for following reasons.
Moved up to the F350 because at the time wife and I wanted to soon get a fiver and a diesel seemed to be a logical choice based on research. Previous towing was with small cargo & flatbed trailers.
My '06 never once left me stranded over many miles from highways, mountain passes, thousands of miles off-road, and 700 miles travel within Death Valley with 2500 lbs of supplies in the bed during the summer with AC full blast the entire time. That truck was absolutely impressive. Never owned a gasser (truck or car) that could withstand the abuse I dished out on that '06.
I was already aware of higher maint cost which was not that bad until I blew the heads on my '06 at near 100K miles up a 8% grade and 98° air temp. Partly my fault for not knowing better ahead of time. Part of that live & learn experience if maint gets neglected. Routine maint is far less if you're able to do most yourself.
So far I've been very impressed with my new TV.
I tow 10K fiver
Wanted better fuel mileage
Superior trade-in value over gasser
No sweat on maintaining 65mph up long, steep interstate hills
Built to haul heavy loads over long distances
I want the added power & torque so I don't have to worry getting over mountain passes or slowly crawl my way up at 40mph.
Better braking power
Oregon has alot of steep mountain passes where I see gassers struggle
Alot more fun to drive
If I decide to get a heavier fiver I'll have no problem
I don't try to convince anyone to go diesel. The above is just my opinion and personal experience.
On second thought if you want more fun, go Diesel!
Just kidding.
