New TV purchased; seeking engine advice
Starting this to clear some internet clutter from many hours of research; I need to have a more clear focus for my budget, which will be about $4k all in for the motor. I really wanted a 6.6, but the ...
Forum Discussion
I'm keeping what I have because, as stated, newer vehicles and related emissions equipment equal bad experiences for me. Had an 08 Dodge 3500 with the 6.7 and it cost me more to fix than what I'll spend on the Burb alone. Other than lacking monetary value, there is nothing we can't do with it. Intrinsic value, to us, is priceless. This thing is easy to fix; I can grab parts out of a yard for pennies on the dollar. Even dropping cash on a new motor is still cheaper than buying another vehicle. We didn't want another crew cab, and the good Excursions are getting hard to find near me. That V10 sold in a matter of days.
The 6.5 is not a bad engine, but does have issues; I can wrench on them and know most of the issues. I know power is limited, but I'm not looking for D-Max power levels or expense, either. Cousin had a 95 2500 with over 250,000 before selling it; usual stuff went wrong but was otherwise happy with it. Issue is I don't trust a $300 "core" engine from a yard (their description) and there aren't many out there. They might now be the most powerful beast around, but they do have more grunt than the L31, at least lower down.
Considering my budget, and being realistic, I may add a cam, heads, intake and tuning, and run till its done. Even with a motor swap I'd still be way ahead; no huge payment, lower insurance and no emissions issues.
The 6.5 is not a bad engine, but does have issues; I can wrench on them and know most of the issues. I know power is limited, but I'm not looking for D-Max power levels or expense, either. Cousin had a 95 2500 with over 250,000 before selling it; usual stuff went wrong but was otherwise happy with it. Issue is I don't trust a $300 "core" engine from a yard (their description) and there aren't many out there. They might now be the most powerful beast around, but they do have more grunt than the L31, at least lower down.
Considering my budget, and being realistic, I may add a cam, heads, intake and tuning, and run till its done. Even with a motor swap I'd still be way ahead; no huge payment, lower insurance and no emissions issues.
