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ducksquasher's avatar
ducksquasher
Explorer
Jul 12, 2017

Diesel Frame Guidance

Hi All,

Another post about my upcoming upgrade to a diesel (most likely used). Looking at all 3 brands and wanted to ask about their frames. I know that Ford just went to a boxed frame (2017) but I would most likely buy a 2016 or a little older, Chevy is boxed and then I read about hydroformed frames? Pros, cons of any of them? Boxed, C channel, hydroformed? Ford, Dodge or Chevy?

Thanks in advance!
  • Have you started shopping yet? If not, I think you will be surprised by prices. Used diesels (especially the first 4 years or so) hold their value extremely well. You won't have to pay much more to get something brand new, zero miles, with warranty.

    In regard to your question, I am unaware of any frame problems with any of the Big 3.
  • goducks10 wrote:
    Unless the frame was made by Lippert it would be my last concern.

    :B

    Lippert=JUNK....mine broke in half while towing, in a new, not overloaded RV.
  • Ron3rd's avatar
    Ron3rd
    Explorer III
    You'll never have a frame problem with any of the brands
    That's the last thing you need to worry about
  • I frequent haulers forums (working trucks) ....frames are a non issue unless the truck was seriously abused.
  • all the trucks ive owned, ford, gm and Dodge ...never had a frame issue, but I also don't overload my trucks.
  • There's that one Ferd on the interwebs with the buckled frame with the big TC and trailer on the back, don't buy that one! Any other truck should be fine....
    Seriously, the old ford frames aren't weak they,re just not as stiff. Buy the truck you like, not the frame.
  • I'll stir the pot a little. :B

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TKMQjm7i2Jw
  • I've been a Chevy man for all 62 years of my life and never had problems with any frames, ever on any model of Chevy, car or truck. And as far as the "other brands" (chock, gag, spit! :B ;) ) ... I've NEVER heard of any of them ever having frame issues either.