Jefe,
I'm located in Central Arizona, so the all weather Fourseason camper market is less than ideal. Regarding the commute distance, it is approximately 1600 miles from door to pipeline at the northernmost point and approximately 1000 miles from the southernmost point. The northern commute would of course take me through Utah, Colorado, parts of Wyoming, Nebraska, and on up into the Dakotas. That of course also depends on whether and road conditions. Therein lies the issue gas or diesel. I have a propensity for trying to consolidate as much as possible and keep things as simple as possible. While I agree with what Sparky87K5 said regarding diesel appliances, diesel generator, etc., I don't know that I would find a truck camper with such conversions, which means a high initial cost to procure said appliances and generator.
Having a diesel truck with diesel appliances and diesel generators would eliminate a lot of the fuel storage required by most campers now. With LP gas appliances typical for TC's, gasoline generator (honda eu2000 & 3000), and a diesel truck, it becomes far too complicated to manage and maintain fuel storage.
Truthfully my intent is to run the camper like a submarine. As efficient as possible, as simple as possible, with lots of redundant systems, (high battery count, at least 300 watts of solar, dedicated charge controller, and efficient heat, e.g. Wave 3 or 6 units over the built in furnace.)
I have no issues with gas trucks, but worry about loaded hill climbing, engine longevity, and yes even MPG. The more mileage I can squeeze out of the truck, the more money I have for the camper. It not uncommon for members of the team to put 30k - 40k miles a year on the vehicle. I must buy used, so I have to consider which 8-10 year old truck will still have the longevity and power remaining in the engine when I make it mine, a diesel or gas?
