Thoughts on a diesel conversion van as a TV
I've been posting a lot lately on the pursuit of a sub-$8K diesel TV that will carry a family of 4 and pull 6-8K and get 20 mpg running empty. Here's what I've come to so far, Diesel Burbs wer...
Forum Discussion
Unless you are totally into working hard for your money doing that engine swap, you might want to consider a used Jeep diesel. The 2005-2006 Jeep Liberty had a diesel option, but might be a little low on towing capacity, at 5,000 lbs. The 2008 Jeep Grand Cherokee had a diesel that would pull 7,200 lbs (as I recall), although they are rare and hard to find. Both would get better than 20 mpg empty.
I have one of the 2005 Libbys and average around 27 mpg overall, although I have hit 34.7 over a tankful on the highway when the wind was right. You should be able to find a Libby of that vintage in your price range. The Grand Cherokee might be a bit harder to locate, but they do exist. Note that there are no diesel Jeeps between 2009 and 2014, at least not in the US.
You might also look into a 2009 BMW X5. BMW brought diesel versions to the US starting that year, although it'll probably be out of your price range. They are rated 6,000 lbs, and 19-26 mpg by the EPA.
I have one of the 2005 Libbys and average around 27 mpg overall, although I have hit 34.7 over a tankful on the highway when the wind was right. You should be able to find a Libby of that vintage in your price range. The Grand Cherokee might be a bit harder to locate, but they do exist. Note that there are no diesel Jeeps between 2009 and 2014, at least not in the US.
You might also look into a 2009 BMW X5. BMW brought diesel versions to the US starting that year, although it'll probably be out of your price range. They are rated 6,000 lbs, and 19-26 mpg by the EPA.
