New Diesel vs. Older Models
I have seen several posts indicating that the poster would rather have an older model diesel, prior to all the emission control devices, but it seems every year we see improvements in tow ratings and ...
Forum Discussion
A used one does not need DEF and if pre-2010 can run on the diesel found in Mexico which is not ultra low sulfur diesel in many parts of the country. The downside is less power and higher fuel consumption and often reliability problems as with the prior generation of Ford diesel engines and the Duramax prior to 2011 except for the ones in the 2006 to early 2007 diesels and even they have had problems with the rails for the fuel injection.
Something that is very different with diesels is the rate of change with the manufacturers coming out with new versions which fix problems with prior year models but introduce new flaws. Gas V-8 engines can be sold for decades with minor changes (post unleaded gas) but GM for example has had 5 different engine designs in the past 10 years.
Repairs are very expensive with diesel engines. Replacing the fuel rails and injectors is about $5,000 and there are more serious problems that can cost twice that amount that are specific to diesel engines. Buying a used truck for $20,000 and putting $10,000 into it for repairs is less of a bargain when a brand new diesel can be bought for $40,000 and a new gas powered truck can be bought for $30,000.
The real question is do you need a diesel engine for the tow vehicle. Towing under 10,000 lbs. a gas engine will do as well and save you money in the short and the long run. Go to 15,000 lbs or more and a diesel engine is needed.
Something that is very different with diesels is the rate of change with the manufacturers coming out with new versions which fix problems with prior year models but introduce new flaws. Gas V-8 engines can be sold for decades with minor changes (post unleaded gas) but GM for example has had 5 different engine designs in the past 10 years.
Repairs are very expensive with diesel engines. Replacing the fuel rails and injectors is about $5,000 and there are more serious problems that can cost twice that amount that are specific to diesel engines. Buying a used truck for $20,000 and putting $10,000 into it for repairs is less of a bargain when a brand new diesel can be bought for $40,000 and a new gas powered truck can be bought for $30,000.
The real question is do you need a diesel engine for the tow vehicle. Towing under 10,000 lbs. a gas engine will do as well and save you money in the short and the long run. Go to 15,000 lbs or more and a diesel engine is needed.
