rangerbait wrote:
Ok, I've narrowed my search down to the F350 Lariat and the Silverado 3500 LTZ, crew cabs, 4x4, and 6.7L PSD/6.6L Duramax.
I've read a lot on the two models, and have found roughly the same ratio of negative:positive feedback on both.
I'm also looking to go with a 2011+ used model...all things being equal, which would you choose and why?
Between the two, if pre 2015, Ford for me. Better interior (which you gotta live with anytime you drive the thing), but I'd avoid the 2011 and early 2012 built engines. Quieter ride that I've noticed. DEF access is in the fuel cap versus under the hood (there's good and bad to that). Man step (I actually added the bed step from AMP to my truck because of how much I loved the man step on my previous F-150). However, there's a batch of them that have some sort of exhaust valve issue on the early 6.7 motors. Beyond that, I haven't heard too much. Also, the new 6.7 is packaged better than the 6.4 and now lifting the cab is more for convenience than a requirement to perform major repairs on the super duty.
Now 2015 and later, far tougher call. The new GM's cab is a bit small (I'm 6 foot even). Some things I did not like, namely the lack of rear seat vents on crew cab trucks. I did like the fact that the GM was actually lower at the bed rail. So I had an easier time reaching-in. Also, GM incorporated a dedicated exhaust brake feature beyond the already excellent tow-haul mode. GM also has a more rigid frame than Ford, doesn't really come to play unless you go on logging roads or off road a bit or have really bad roads in your area. GM also rocks an IFS front suspension that may have more moving parts, but it does a better job of soaking up road imperfections.
For Ford, they updated the engine with more material in the block, more horses under the hood, a simpler and probably more reliable turbo (single compressor wheel) and far stronger exhaust braking. Still has a fairly robust and simple front suspension design. You also tend to have more aftermarket support for Fords since the frame design has changed little since 2003.5. I think 2017 they bow out with an all new model, so if you wait till fall 2016, you can probably score a really awesome deal on the current truck.
Really for both of them, 2015 introduces exhaust braking which is a boon for diesel towing. 2015 also seems to have brought GM from being in the dark ages to Parity with Ford, maybe even being a little ahead with interior design.
