Tell me your horror stories (Diesel)

BigToe wrote:

ib516 wrote:
Ok, so browsing through the thread about the 2011 Ford diesel left me in shock. Seems like there were many issues with the early builds of that engine... I went with a 6.4L Hemi last time I was shopping as it suited my needs better and frankly, I was scared away from diesels (all of them). At that time, my research told me they weren't worth the gamble. What I mean by that is their superior towing performance wasn't worth it to me when they could cost me tens of thousands to repair if they failed... I'm just not into check engine lights on new trucks.

Are the diesels getting better? Should I put them back on my shopping list for my next new truck?

I'll likely be towing under 10k GVW, and it'll likely be a TT around 30'. I do want to log some miles though, and that will include some long distance touring (cross Country type).

You're signature says you are currently in a 2007 1500 Dodge gas truck now, but previously, you had an 2007 3500 Dodge Cummins. Why did you give up the diesel 2007 and ultimately end up with a gas 2007 of the same brand? The answer to that question might provide insight into your next choice.

There's a little more to ib's truck story than just trading down to his current truck.
Bottom line, any of the big gassers will tow a sub 10klb trailer anywhere it fits and has traction, on this continent, and do it safely.
The real question is what is the extra power and fuel mileage worth to you and whether you consider total cost of ownership, including salvage value (selling it after x number of miles), or just the purchase price and maintenance costs.
In short, I wouldn't be afraid of any of the new big 3 diesels, especially considering only the emissions equipment is a potential achilles heel (don't hear much about CP4s, Bosch injectors, head gaskets, etc that plagued some of the older trucks). Because for the most part, you can solve out of warranty emissions issues succinctly if needed, and move on.
Although power, features, capacities are ever evolving with each model year, I'm pretty intent on waiting for after-treatment only emissions (no egr) and more cogs in the slushboxes. 8 speed HD diesel pickups are right around the corner, so to speak.
Until then, my noisy, smoke blowin, old school bells and whistles Dodge will have to do.