New design = issues. Old design = less issues. Pretty simple far as I can see.
Ford is notorious for engine issues with the diesels, except the venerable 7.3, which I own. From **** head bolts to exploding, non rebuildable turbo's to lowest bidder Tier 4 compliant emissions parts.
Diesels have become very complex today and the more complexity, the more chance of failure at some point.
If I was in the market for a new truck (which I'm not), I'd buy a gasoline motor. The emissions on a gas motor have had the 'bugs' worked out. Diesels on the other hand have not.
The other 'fly in the ointment' is fuel cost of diesel over gasoline and fuel prices are going up, pretty steadily. I see the 3+ buck fuel coming again. Diesel here in Michigan is averaging $2.79 a gallon right now with regulat unleaded staying about 30 cents less. That 30 cents less adds up pretty quick, plus the up front cost of a diesel is substantially more than a gas motor.
All things to consider.
Finally, diesel routine maintenance, will always be more than a gas motor. More lube oil, more for filters and more tire wear because the torque from a diesel motor, eats tires.
