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1handyhubby's avatar
1handyhubby
Explorer
Sep 24, 2015

Question for diesel owners

I need your help folks. My Ford F250 just doesn't have enough power to haul our camper long distances so we're looking at a 2005 F350 duelly with a 6.0. I know zip about diesels so here are a couple of questions for y'all. I only put about 3,000 miles a year on our truck now, so how often would I have to change oil, filters etc? I've been told there are diesel fuels for 2005 and earlier and diesel fuel for 2006 and up and I should get a 2005 beacause that fuel is easier to find. Any truth to this? We will be driving to Alaska in 2017 so I don't want any issues on finding fuel. Lastly, most diesel folks say they will never go back to gas, anyone want to weigh in on this? I originally was trying to find a F350 duelly with a V10 but because we eventually want to get a camper with a slide out we've been told we should get a diesel. Thanks in advance.
  • I have a F250 2004 6.0 with 107000 miles, change oil every 5000, no problems. Just like all new motors a few had problems. Don't let them scare you.
  • A diesel will certainly give you more torque (pulling power) and better mileage than a gasser. I change the oil when every my onboard sensor tells me to which is about every 7K miles. All the diesel fuel I've found in the last couple of years is the same now, and will work well in any diesel engine. This 2013 diesel is the first one I've ever owned, and I certainly won't go back to gas.

    Now the big issue. The 6.0 Ford diesel has a history of serious failures and very expensive repairs. My son has one, and he's had to replace 6 of the 8 injectors which are very expensive. Do your homework on this engine, and make sure you get the history on the work that was done on this particular vehicle.

    Jim
  • Diesel fuel is ULSD (Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel) 15ppm.

    I change my oil/oil filter/fuel filter at 5000 mile intervals because I am anal about oil & filters.
    MANY folks change at 7500/10,000 miles.

    Diesel engines are 'work horses' made for towing/hauling.


    FORD 6.0 diesel engines do NOT have good reputations.

    I was a Ford guy from teenage to mid adult. In 2007 bought Dodge with Cummins because of issues with Ford's 6.0 engine. (and I did not like Dodges!!!)