I'm also looking to replace an Expedition EL. I am early in my actual shopping, but I have done enough research to know it will be a 3500 with Cummins for us (if RAM wins the contest). The fiver we currently like the most has a 15K GVWR so I can't skimp. I was originally thinking of a 3/4 ton gasser, but the lighter fivers all have too little headroom for me in the bedroom (and in some bathrooms).
Playing off the comment immediately above about the 2018 units. With Ram making major changes for 2019 they dumped a bunch of 2018 units onto the dealers with roughly $10K in incentives off sticker. Lots of brand new Tradesman models available with bench seats if you can get around your other objections.
One options I'm following right now to get an honest feel for pricing is to use the Costco Auto Program. A funny wrinkle for me is the nearest participating RAM dealer is 120 miles away. So I won't just be popping over for a test drive. If that works out it will be easier than the 2017 unit I wish I could buy, but that one is 650 miles away for me.
My wife knows the local guy who owns RAM, Chevy, and other dealerships and asked him a generic question about 1-ton trucks. He really suggested driving a few and using that to determine what will feel right. All modern trucks are capable and each has high points over the others.
PS - "deleted" refers to people who remove the pollution control devices from their diesel trucks. They feel the early technology creates performance and/or reliability problems. I'm in favor of being a good citizen and will keep mine intact/legal. If you want to research the various generations of diesel engine technology used by the big three, drivingline.com has a useful series of articles (use "history" as a search term). I believe there are links to them from elsewhere here on this forum.
Best regards,
Chris
