While 9x out of 10 I'd say get the diesel, in your case, unless there is something wrong with your truck, keep the 8.1/Alli combo compared to what you're looking at.
Yes, a 24V HO VP44 Cummins engine will pull slightly better (Stock only. Throw a tune or programmer on it and it'll blow the doors off the big block with a trailer attached, maybe not empty though.)
It will definately get better fuel mileage loaded or empty. That's about where the advantage ends compared to your 02 GM.
47RE Dodge trans........You'll want to slit your wrists the first time you drive it after having the Alli in your truck.
Older Dodge chassis. Not bad driving/riding, but again the 02 GM wins that hands down.
Like your G80 locker in the GM? Just a halfway decent posi in the Dodge, no comparison there.
This is coming from a Dodge diesel owner, so take it for what its worth. Those early 2000's GM 8.1 Alli combos are kind of the holy grail of gassers. Noone makes a better gasser option in a pickup yet. Maybe when Ram comes out with the 6.4 Hemi in the HD trucks the 8.1 will have some competition.
