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General Forestry => General Board => Topic started by: MrMoo on October 25, 2004, 09:52:33 AM

Title: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 25, 2004, 09:52:33 AM
Hi Folks,
Well I got bad news last week. Yup my pickup truck did not pass inspection. The corrosion underneath has gone beyond what is acceptable and its time to replace it.

I have been out looking at pickups both new and used. In used though I am only considering 2001 and later.

I was wondering how you are making out with your pickups.

I am mostly interested in the GMC 2500 and F250.

Any comments you could offer would be great.

Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Timber_Framer on October 25, 2004, 10:18:00 AM
You may as well have asked which chainsaw is best or what religion we all should be! :D
I guess my first questionwould be what do you want your truck to do?
In my experience GMC products ride nice but both Ford and Dodge 3/4 tons can haul and pull more then any GM 1 ton.
A few years back on an elk hunting trip I was pilling a four horse trailer with an F-250 and my brother in law had a two horse trailer pulled by a shiney new Chevy and I had to wait for him at the top of every hill and at every gas station.
The only local dealership we have up here is Chevy dealer nad everyone that works for a living drives a Ford.
Now I'm bettin someone here has a difference of opinion, and that's Ok ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: shopteacher on October 25, 2004, 11:07:46 AM
Mike,
   I've driven new  fords since 1985. Had 3 since then and can't complain.  The 98  1/2 ton I have now pulled my LT40 from below Birmingham, Al. to Pittsburgh without a hitch. However my real only requirements of a truck is that it runs good and doesn't give me trouble. One thing that I hate about all the Fords I've had is the danG seat belt doesn't retract fully and is always caught in the door.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Timber_Framer on October 25, 2004, 11:10:38 AM
QuoteI hate about all the Fords I've had is the danG seat belt doesn't retract fully and is always caught in the door.
>:(And it's been like that since the 70's!
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: shopteacher on October 25, 2004, 11:16:11 AM
You'd think they'd get smart enough to go steal a seatbelt design off of chey, chrysler, nissian, kia or somebody. Come on Ford get with it.  Takes  them corporate types a while to catch on I guess. :D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Murf on October 25, 2004, 11:20:04 AM
Mike, I think the TimberFramer has it pretty well nailed down.

I drive an F-350 PSD and have good friend who is a dyed in the wool GM-by-the -C fan, I don't hold that against him though, ddep down he's a nice guy.  :D

After a few runs side by side with a variety of trailers, he has come to the following deep philisophical conclusion; He would like to have a Ford PSD, but he has a "Chevy Butt" and no matter how hard he tries or wants, he can't get comfortable in a Ford pick-me-up-truck.  ;)

So we have an 'arrangement' all worked out, when we are making a one truck road-trip, we take his 'sport model' (1/2 shortbox) if there is little work involved and my 'Ford-nominium' (crew cab 4x4 long box dually) when a big trailer or load is involved. It works very well.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: etat on October 25, 2004, 11:43:38 AM
F250 ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Norm on October 25, 2004, 11:48:57 AM
Ford Powerstroke F-250! Now I know some chevy diehards will tell you the 2500 but down deep they really lust after the powerstroke. ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Murf on October 25, 2004, 11:59:39 AM
Up here there's a popular saying.

"Real trucks and men work for a living, they DON'T wear Bowties.".  ;D

In fact there was a big comotion over a new GM commercial shot near here recently, all the fall colours, twisty turning roads, etc., seems some bright advertising genious decided to emphasize the GM roadside assistance program too. They showed a lady and 2 kids being 'assisted' by a nice young man in a tow-truck.

Then someone realized it was a FORD tow-truck.

They tried to re-shoot that section but were unable to find a GM tow-truck in the area, all of the trucks the GM roadside assistance plan brokers have in this area are Ford PSD's.

They just cut that section out of the commercial completely.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Tom_Averwater on October 25, 2004, 12:27:07 PM
F- 250  with the PSD.  I like it alot. 8)       Tom
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: JD350Cmark on October 25, 2004, 12:30:45 PM
What do you mean your truck will not pass inspection?  I have not heard of that.  Please fill us west coast people in that may not be familar with it.

I have a 1990 Dodge 3/4 T, w/ Cummins and never had a problem.  It's got 75,000 miles on it and waits to go on trips.  Perhaps it will see Alaska next year. ;D

My 2001 F-450 on the other hand...  been towed to Ford 3 times now.  Bent push rods, bad injectors, turbo problems, another bent push rod, both rear wheel cyinders started leaking.  Oh, and this started at 8,000 miles and now it has 13,000 miles.   :-/
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: jgoodhart on October 25, 2004, 12:55:49 PM
Ford F250 Powerstroke, cab and 1/2 at my camp.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Fla._Deadheader on October 25, 2004, 02:09:31 PM
  Mr. Cummins gets my vote. 20 MPG on my Dually.  ;) ;D ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: beetle on October 25, 2004, 02:15:24 PM
Been a GM fan all my life, maybe due to the fact that I get GM family discount  ??? Never had problems until I bought my last new one, a 1997 4X extened cab Z 71. Biggest peice of ____ I ever owned. On top of the purchase cost I have dumped over $6000.00 in it under 100,000 miles. GM says not their problem, well, GM aint going to be my problem anymore.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Dom on October 25, 2004, 02:36:07 PM
For work, Ford, for play Chevy.   ;D Not that it matters to me I drive a car, but it seems to be the general philosophy in my area, and it seems to be true.  :P
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Bruce_A on October 25, 2004, 03:44:28 PM
Shopteacher;  You are so right.  If you want to tow something without a hitch, get a Ford cause  ????????? gm products will lose their grip before you get where you are going.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: rebocardo on October 25, 2004, 04:11:25 PM
It all depends on what "features" you can not stand in a make and model, they all have their "features" and downfalls. All three OEMs play to different markets. You go to Maine and NH and it is 4x4 Ford country. Other states, it is more Chevy and Dodge.

Having worked at all sorts of dealerships (stealerships?) I like Ford the best. Some (-) things that distinguish a Ford:

> the danG seat belt doesn't retract fully and is
> always caught in the door.

Does not matter if it is a Ranger or F-150, it happens. Noisy power steering pumps you can hear 2 blocks away are another feature.

Generally speaking, the Ford trucks are way beefier then the Dodge and Chevy. Especially in the frame area, spring hangers, and rear axles. The 7.3 PSDs are fine engines and they even put the fuel filter up front where it is easy to change. Though I think I would wait a while until the 6.0 is unbugged.

GM - computer problems that leave you stuck for no reason, lousy trim that falls off and squeaks. Inferior drive train and the placement of items like spark plugs designed so you can't change them in a driveway.Count on your 4x4 not working at the worse possible time - when it snows.

Dodge - bad auto trannies that die between 60-80k miles no matter what you do to the vehicles. You would almost think they were designed by the guy that did the Ford A4LD transmission.
 
For a log/wood/work truck I would go Ford F-250/F-350 followed by Dodge. I think your best bet is go F-350 4x4 and get the solid front axle.

My former boss had a newer Dodge dually 4x4 diesel and basically the only problem is it overheated once in traffic (GA summer) and it keeps going through transmissions every 60k. Someone I know that had a Dodge (1/2 ton) had her tranny go at 60k too. So ... she went and bought a new "RumbleBee" Dodge truck instead.

I have done his starter and batteries for him too, though you have to consider that normal for a diesel work truck because they would be replaced on any make and model after three years of contractor work. About 250k so far and three trannies at $2500-$4000 a pop.

Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Larry on October 25, 2004, 04:25:06 PM
Appears most Forum member know a good truck when they see one. :D :D :D

F350 PSD new in 97 with no regrets and no plans to trade for quite a while.

Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Brad_S. on October 25, 2004, 04:33:29 PM
I once had a summer job working at the GM engine assembly plant in Tonawanda, NY, so I was a Jimmy man for most of my life. Got a GMC3500 when I started milling, but it nickel and dimed me to death, and couldn't pass anything, especially a gas station. :(   Bought a used Ford 350 1T dually flat bed, 7.3 ltr. diesel and it is awesome. ;D   Except, that is,  for that part where the oil pan rots out at 120K miles and cost 2 grand to replace! :o
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: sprucebunny on October 25, 2004, 04:37:53 PM
Ford is my favorite for a real truck. Owned over 60 vehicles in my life. Had 2 new GMs and hated them. Only had 1 new Ford in 1979. Loved that one ,too. If you only need a smaller truck you really can't beat Toyota. Wish they made a one ton..
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Kevin_H. on October 25, 2004, 05:02:01 PM
I own a '95 chevy 1/2 ton that I bought new...I will never buy another one >:(

Use's/leaks oil, inside door latch replaced several times, pins in the drivers door replace. window track on drivers door worn out, power locks dont work, power mirrors dont work...Well you get the idea, Plus I get to put new break lines on it tomorrow, seems they rusted in half :(

We run about 30 PSD in the ambulance fleet, most of them 7.3's but we have a few of the new 6.0

My next one will be a ford!!!
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: beetle on October 25, 2004, 05:26:25 PM
Rebo,

You are so right "inferior drive train "  Chevy 1997 4X Z-71. 5.0 liter.

10k miles = transfer case. warranty
55k miles = new transmission. $2200.00
60k miles = front wheel bearing assemblys. $1100.00
100k miles = fuel pump including sending unit. $950.00
123k miles = again front wheel bearing assemblys. $1200.00.
Not to mention, water pump, alternator, heater core, mutiple brake changes. the list goes on.

Back and forth to work only, truck does not even got a hitch, so it has never pulled a trailer.

Front wheel bearings get slight slop and it affects the anti-lock brake sensors, truck wont stop.

Junk, Junk, Junk, Junk ! Anybody want to buy it ?  ???
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: dutchman on October 25, 2004, 06:10:53 PM
I'm running a 1999 F 250 super duty, 4x4,  with 373 gears, and Triton V8. Love the way it hauls logs, lumber, and the mill.
Now  on the wish list is the new International  7300 CXT.
Check it out.

http://www.navistar.com/site_layout/severe/cxt.asp
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: bighoss550 on October 25, 2004, 06:44:48 PM
2003 F550xlt 4x4 crewcab with a 1ton bed on it:) the ultimate truck:D 8)

ill try to post u all a pic....
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Corley5 on October 25, 2004, 06:49:14 PM
Dad and I both have (OK my wife drives ours ;D) Cummins Dodge 3/4 ton 4X4 quad cab short boxes and we couldn't be happier with them.  His a 2001 and mine is a 2002.  We've pulled our 26' gooseneck flatbed all the country with them and love them.  The only thing I'd change on a new one is the gear ratios.  Ours have 3:55s in them and I'd go with  3:73s.  Just driving the truck it'll get 20MPG easy.  Hook the trailer to it and add an 8,000lb tractor and that figure goes down considerably.  I shopped extensively before buying ours and really kinda had my heart set on a Duramax Chevy but the incentives couldn't compare to Chrysler and Ford was even farther out.  My favorite truck of all time is still the 96 Toyota Tacoma 4X4 P.U. I had that was the trade in for the Dodge.  I miss that truck.  I currently drive a 94 GMC 1/2 ton 4X4 with V-6 and a five speed.  What a piece of junk.  Actually it's very dependable and I wouldn't be afraid to head out anywhere with it but it is the most gutless hulk of a truck I've ever had.  
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: DR Buck on October 25, 2004, 07:00:12 PM
I've owned them all and now own the best I've ever had.   2003 Ford F-350 PSD 4x4, crew cab (1/2 doors on rear seat) and a FULL 8 ft bed.  Turns like a school buss, but pulls the LT 40  and log trailers like their not even there!  8)

Put 41,000 miles on it so far without a single problem!  8)

Also have a 1974 F-500 I use around the farm with 100,000 miles on it and it still ticking on the original engine with no oil burning.  Just need to fix the breaks!  ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: FiremanEd on October 25, 2004, 07:05:13 PM
99 Dodge 2500 4x4 Cummins w/ the auto & quad-cab. Great truck except for the brakes, the rear's don't/wont work and fronts don't like doing ALL the work alone. 8 sets of pads 3 sets of rotors. Trany dropped at 135K w/ over 50% pulling an 8K trailer. (not much of a trailer for that truck) Otherwise a great truck, the Cummins is great.

Wife has 2000 F-250 4x4 Auto w/ the Powerstroke & extended cab. Tranny went last month at 125K after probaly 50K of pulling a 28' gooseneck horse trailer w/ living quarters. (whole rig weighs in at about 21K, truck and all) That's the only complaint.

Come spring, the dodge will be finding a new home and a F-350, single rear tires, 4x4, auto, PSD, Crew cab will be coming home. Nothing against the dodge but fords are more dependable and don't $0.05 and $0.10 you.

And like someone above said real men and real trucks don't wear bowties!!
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: bighoss550 on October 25, 2004, 07:05:22 PM
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Monday,%20October%2025,%202004%20(6).jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Monday,%20October%2025,%202004%20(6).jpg)


my truck....
go with the ford:)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: bighoss550 on October 25, 2004, 07:15:01 PM
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Monday,%20October%2025,%202004.jpg)
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Monday,%20October%2025,%202004.jpg)

another:)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: bighoss550 on October 25, 2004, 07:16:27 PM
why am i gettin a double pic??? hhhmmmmm

anyway.... i have owned many fords, and u wont get a truck like this one from any other manufacturer. so that pretty much narrowed my decision:) it regularly has 20-28,000 lbs behind it, and has no trouble passin the other makes on any of the hills around here. this 6.0 is the most incredible diesel ive ever driven. i put a quadzilla box on it, straight piped it, K&N filtered it, and put on water injection, and i have no trouble walkin away from mustang GT's and even a friends new ram-air trans-am!!!!!!!! def go with the PSD in the supa duti!! 8) 8)

and if any of u guys wanna talk fords....here is a forum ive been a part of for a while......
http://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=5
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: ScottAR on October 25, 2004, 07:29:00 PM
Toss me in the ford hat...  '76 EB, '68effie, and 99350 PSD...

I can't say they are the best as I never owned another brand.  I never really felt the need to switch...   :D :D
I like em!!

Nice 550  BigHoss!!

My PSD gets 19ish mpg just going to work and back (50miles with some town parts)  21+ on road trips...

P.S.  At the lumberyard, I load out Ford and Dodge 2-1 over Anything else.  Mostly PSD or Cummins...  
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: craigc90 on October 25, 2004, 08:54:38 PM
  Well this is a good subject. I usually just read everthing new and go to bed but I have to get in on this. I work at a GMC Pontiac Buick Dealer and I am the diesel and transmission man. The 05 duramax diesel is supposed to have new injectors in them. I just put 8 new injectors in a 02 3500 and they cost $2200.00 to replace. They leak inside the engine and fill the crancase with diesel fuel. The last one I repaired was overflowing out the oil fill.The Allison auto 5 speed is a good transmission but it also has a weak point the tailhousings break in half on the 4x4 trucks due to the torque of the transfercase hanging on them. I make a living working on GM vehicles. I am an ASE master Technition and a GM master Technition and I drive a FORD Truck and always will. These are just the big problems add in the 4x4 never working when you need it and poor fuel milage and front hubs and bearings going bad every year or two . I think I would steer clear of the GM trucks for working.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Fla._Deadheader on October 25, 2004, 09:21:17 PM
  Craig, is it really necessary to have the clutches or bands adjusted in the Allison Trans, every time the fluid is changed ??? My Dodge manual says change the trans fluid every time you change the Engine oil ??? ???
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: craigc90 on October 25, 2004, 09:33:04 PM
 I have never looked at the maintenace schedule for fluid change but I am sure it would be at least 35000 miles. There are no bands in an Allison they have 5 clutches 2 driving clutches and 3 holding cluthes there are no external adjustments available on these transmissions. I just have training on the gm version Allison 1000 series trans . I dont think they are in any  Dodges.  What year and make truck do you have. I can do a little checking into it.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Fla._Deadheader on October 25, 2004, 09:35:56 PM
  Thanks for the reply. They recommend changing every 6000 miles. :o :o

  The truck is a 1997 Dodge 3500 Dually, 2 wheel drive.  Thanks.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: craigc90 on October 25, 2004, 09:45:23 PM
  I did not know what engine you have but it says in the manual for a turbo diesel with auto trans normal service interval for trans filter and fluid is 24000 miles. That is straight from factory service manual. I just looked it up on alldata.  and it says severe duty every 12000 miles.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Erick on October 26, 2004, 04:06:43 AM
I'm glad the majority of the folks know a good truck when they see it. If your still undecided I would say look around on the road at the people who have to rely on their vehichles and see what they are driving. As someone said try to find a Chevy wrecker or a Dodge ambulance. Most of the police cars in this country are Ford Crown Victorias. Ever notice as your driving that all of the fleet hauling services are useing Ford trucks. Even a popular insurance agency is known for showing up at the sceen of the accident in a Ford Explorer. All of the UPS small vans are Fords. Bottom line is all of the people and companys who have to rely on their vehicles to run and do what they need drive Fords. If you NEED a truck buy a Ford if you just want a truck to ride around town in its up to you. When a cetified GM technition, whos job security depends on your buying his product, says buy a Ford theirs not much else to say. Except buy American
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: moosehunter on October 26, 2004, 05:35:01 AM
 This must be why I like the people on this forum so, mostly ford lovers!
 I am also a master mechanic, own my own garage. We LOVE chevy's. We would starve if we relied on fixing fords to put food on the table.
 moosehunter
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: pappy on October 26, 2004, 07:44:55 AM
F 150 300 with 165,000 miles two wheel drive.

Had a 5 speed trans and was changed buy the previous owner, now a 4 speed. I've had her for 6 years, bought her when she had 142,000, changed the usual -- brakes, muffler, a couple front end parts and I'd still head of to Bangor, Me today (200 miles one way). Change the oil once a year with 10-30 synthetic. As you can see I don't put many miles on per year but when I need her she's ready to gitty-up and go daddy

Gotta get me a 4X4 so I can hook up a snowplow for the yard, definitely gut ta be a Ford. ::)

pappy
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Murf on October 26, 2004, 08:16:15 AM
Whadya' mean Ford for work, GM's for play  ???

They go of to work........
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Truck%20Trailer%20Kubota%20x%20small.jpg)

And then they go off to play ....
(https://forestryforum.com/images/03_21_04/Truck%20Booats%20x%20small.jpg)

 8)  8)  8)  8) All in a days work, errr, play, errr I mean ..... ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Timber_Framer on October 26, 2004, 08:34:56 AM
I remember my Father-in-law telling me that as a member of the AQHA that all members were entitled to a discount from GM because GM was "The official truck of the American Quarter Horse Association" But when he would go to the AQHA sponsored shows all those horse trailers there were pulled by Fords and Dodges! The only GMs there were driven by the sponsors :D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 26, 2004, 09:18:54 AM
Wow I figured this topic would get some responses but I never figured this much.

Thanks to everyone for your input.

I visited the local Ford dealer yesterday and I liked what I saw. He had a used 2004 F250 with 5500 miles on it for 21K. The truck looked like new. It was a 4x4 (needed here in NH) regular cab with the XLT package. Had the snow prep & tow prep pagckages on it. Also had a sprayed on bedliner.

He also had a 2005 F350 with the PSD that interested me.

One of things I want to do with this truck is tow the sawmill. My Logmaster goes about 7000 lbs. with about 1000 lbs. tongue weight. I'm thinking maybe I should be considering this F350.

My wife said last night she was going to miss the Toyota when we trade it in. Says she likes it.

Mike
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: bighoss550 on October 26, 2004, 10:38:47 AM
i am guessing that the 04 doesnt have the 6.0??? make sure u get the diesel!!
u wont regret it, trust me:)

the 05's have a coil sprung front end now, and if ya wait a little longer, u can get some monster discounts for the 04's that are still sittin on the lots(new)

go check out the truck trader online.

and go with an F350:)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Erick on October 26, 2004, 12:27:53 PM
I agree with highhoss get the deisel you wont be sorry pulls like a big block and gets 6 cyl. fuel mileage.  :)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Erick on October 26, 2004, 12:49:24 PM
 ::)  Sorry I ment bighoss but the site wont let me modify it sorry bighoss  ::)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 26, 2004, 12:52:52 PM
Well I just test drove the 2004 F350 I mentioned earlier. It has the 6.0L diesel. You guys are right about the power it just goes. I thought it drove great & handled well. Its a loud buggar though. I also like that its a no frills truck even has hand cranks for the winders. I really liked it.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: rebocardo on October 26, 2004, 02:01:50 PM
Hey, I use to live in Barrington! Just one word of caution, NH being a "buyer beware and you bought it you own it state" with little recourse on lemon law stuff, I would back up any used vehicle with the FORD (not aftermarket) extended warranty that goes beyond the factory warranty. Shop around on this and do not get gouged $$$.

Do a carfax report and talk to the previous owner on anything before you leave a deposit and if it was not originally titled (C.O.) in NH skip the deal.

Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 26, 2004, 02:21:49 PM
Hay Rebocardo,
Your the second person on the FF that used to live in Barrington. Who would a thunk it.

I hear what you are saying about checking things out before the sale.

The diesel I am looking at now is new so its not a problem.

Thanks,
Mike
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: oakiemac on October 26, 2004, 04:13:28 PM
If you want a serious work truck, quite playing around and buy an old International pickup. I bought a '68 from the fire department with only 11,000 miles on it. It is 3/4 ton, 4X4, winch, BIG step bumber, mud tires. Will go through anything. It is cold blooded and very little heat and you need ear plugs on to muffle the road noise-but what a truck!
I sure wish it had power steering though.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Patty on October 26, 2004, 04:26:33 PM
I totally agree with the Ford recomendations. This last suv I bought is a Chevy Suburban (they gave me an offer I couldn't refuse  :o) . I love the style, it has a great ride, and some power, BUT the repair bill will be the death of it. So far most has been warranty work, but the warranty is soon to expire, so I think it would be wise to sell it, and go back to the Ford. Too bad the Ford suv's are so ugly. I guess the beauty of the driver will just have to overcome the ugliness of the suv.  :D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Old_Town on October 26, 2004, 04:53:32 PM
I am an electrical contractor in the Dallas area and we have owned about 25 trucks in the last 10 years.  We mainly buy 3/4 ton and 1 ton Chevrolets and Fords. The oldest truck we have in our fleet at this time is a 1999 CK 2500. This truck has 111,345 miles as of today. I have put a fuel pump ($455.00) on it and that is it other than brakes. I sold a 1997 GMC 2500 about a month ago that had 225,000 miles on it and it had the original tranny and motor. We have had excellent luck with GM products, but we only buy gas engines. The two worst trucks we have had have been Fords. We had a 1996 F-150 V6 that the motor went out on at 65,000 miles ant the throwout bearing at 70,000. We also had a 1991Ford F-350 with a 460 , the tranny failed at 45,000 miles. I have had very little luck with Fords.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Furby on October 26, 2004, 07:07:37 PM
I decided a bout a month ago that I wanted a heavy pick-up truck for hauling. Passed up the flat beds and dump trucks I've been looking at.
Currently I have my eye on a 1992 F350 PSD, 4 door crew cab, with 182k and a newer tranny. It's being sold at auction in a couple of weeks.
Any thoughts???
No chance I can go new, but it is a bit older then I'd like.
The higher miles are explained by it being a work truck.

They also have a 1950 Ford F-4 flat bed, 6 cyl. flat head, that I'm going to look at just for fun.  ;) ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Quartlow on October 26, 2004, 09:14:22 PM
Well I supose I'll get my 2 cents worth in here.. Depends what you want to do with it power wise, Are you going to leave it stock or tune her up a bit. If your going for power buy a cummins and talk to the guys at Diesel injection of Pittsburgh. Nobody can make a cummins talk like these guys and they have been doing it for 20 some years.

I had a friend who worked there as a salesman. the owner had a dodge they did up. I couldn't even begin to stay with that thing between lights with my 70 pontiac Lemans 455 mild build shift kit and 4.56 rear. His pickup consistantly smoked me.

snoop around on the net and you will find guys getting 800 plus HP out of the new chevy's and keeping them together.

the old PSD are getting 800 plus but the new 6.0 just won't make any seriuos HP they seem to be stuck at around 600.

As fo rmy personal experiance with ford , well I'm on my third on and and everry one of them sucked. Oh don't get me wrong I can pile 4000 pound on my F25 and it just shrugs at the weight and it rides nice. But it has been a maintence nightmare every time I turn around  it want something. this week its a dipstick tube. Any idea what the fools want for a dipstick tube? 25 BUCKS
They are on drugs, big time.!!!!

When I worked in the rental industry all they bought where fords, couldn't keep brakes on the darn things. At one store out of 6 new trucks only one the F250 super duty never gave us any trouble, the other 5, junk. Brakes, power sterering pump troubles tranny troubles. tire alingment on one so bad it was wearing out steer tires ewvery 16,000 miles and they never did get it right.

My money is on dodge the next time around.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Erick on October 27, 2004, 04:13:56 AM
Furby,
     Make sure the 350 is a power stroke I'm not sure if it was in 92 or not I know that in 91 they had the old navastar and it was a dog it only made around 190 HP and wasnt good for much except a boat anchor. I know they switched around that time but I thought it was in 93. Just make sure it is a PSD and not the boat anchor.  ;)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: jgoodhart on October 27, 2004, 05:58:17 AM
When I bought my 94 it still had the old 7.3, sold it with only 40k miles on it.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: OneWithWood on October 27, 2004, 10:38:14 AM
I currently have a '86 F250 with a 460 in it.  Mebbee someday I will post a pic on the ugly truck thread.  I am lusting after an F350 PSD 4x4 but can't find one without an extended cab and I don't want duallies.  I need to be able to get around in the woods and I want an 8' bed so the extended cabs won't get it.  My experience with duallies off-road is that they get stuck and make really big ruts!
Unfortunately for me I cannot justify two trucks and this F250 just won't give up the ghost.  I try and I try to work it to death but short of purposely neglecting the maintenance it just won't quit. ::)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: redpowerd on October 27, 2004, 11:03:44 AM
86 F250 extendo cab four wheel drive dually flatbed with a 420 IH
diesel. :D primer grey and guaranteed to be uglier than OOW's ford.

once i replaced the fuel pump in her, shes driven me all over the state for equipment and back, a few times over
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Minnesota_boy on October 27, 2004, 11:49:19 AM
I bought a new truck once.  1979 F-250  Sti8ll have it, runs fine.  Had to replace a water pump, and a fuel tank and several oil pressure senders, but it still has good oil pressure and will start anytime I wqant to go someplace, including when it's -30.

I also have a 81 f-150 4X4 that someone else needs as it is getting old and has carburetor problems, but it hauled my mill around for 3 years now.  Just replaced it with a 94 F-150 4X4.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Norm on October 27, 2004, 01:03:30 PM
About the only thing bad that I can think of for my F-250 PSD is that it starts hard when really cold. I didn't get a block heater in mine and have had it not start twice when really cold. It sits outside in the cold with no protection so that's probably why, never having been to NH I'm not sure what your winters are like but something to keep in mind.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 27, 2004, 02:27:59 PM
Well I just came back from another Ford dealer. He had an F250 with the regular cab and a gas engine. The price was right so I went ahead and bought it.
Last night the wife and I drove an F350 with PSD. Wife said the diesel was too loud. I didn't disagree with her. Since she drives the truck more than I do I had to consider this and we passed on the truck.
Ford is doing a giveaway on a pair of Timberland workboots if you buy so I told the wife she can have the boots.

OneWithWood
The F350 we test drove has a regular cab & single rear wheels. Its an XL with long bed. Kind of a long ride for you though.

Thanks to everyone who contributed. You were all a big help. Its a great asset to have.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: MrMoo on October 27, 2004, 02:32:36 PM
Oh ya one more thing.

Rebocardo yesterday mentioned doing a carfax on the used truck I was looking at. He was right on.

I did the carfax and found out it had been in an accident. Not a serious one but it seemed odd the truck was traded in 3 months later. I passed on that.

Thanks Rebo, if you ever come back up to Barrington look me up.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: shopteacher on October 27, 2004, 02:41:25 PM
Carfax can't tell you about an accident that hadn't been reported, but it sure worth checking out.  Every used car any of my family is thinking about buying at least gets a check on carfax.  Lets you know if the milage is real also.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Furby on October 27, 2004, 09:16:10 PM
This 1992 is listed as a Power Stroke, don't know if they have it right or not.


If I want to go off road, I'd rather take my old probe. Lots of fun! ;D
Last Fri. night it started to rain. Rained all morning Sat, heavy non stop. I spent 5 hours out in it at an auction. I knew better then to park in the hay field like everyone else.
By the end of the auction, a couple of guys and a tractor had been stationed to pull the 4x4 trucks out of the field. A few made it by themselves, but most needed a tow. One small front wheel drive car made it out with no problem. Across the field, through the mud hole, up the wet grassy hill and between the telephone pole and big sign. Never got stuck, not even when it stopped to wait for a truck to "try" to make it out. It was pretty funny. ;D
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: ScottAR on October 27, 2004, 10:36:16 PM
The powerstroke started in '94.5 and up.  The 92 was just the 7.3 which is a decent engine, just underpowered compared to the PSD.  
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Weekend_Sawyer on October 28, 2004, 05:47:49 AM
 I have a 96' F350 4x4 with 5.8, I wanted a disel but got a great deal on this truck. I haul my 7000lb skid steer 120 miles between home and the cabin in West Virginia a couple times a year. It doesn't do bad, I'm right there with the truckers on those steep uphill grades. I haul rocks, gravel, firewood whatever, this truck works hard .

I put an aftermarket dump kit on it a while back and man do you get a lot more use out of a truck with one of those

My first truck was a 62 F100. I'm pretty much a ford truck guy. I did own an 80 Dodge power wagon, not bad, and a 82 chevy 3/4 ton 6.2 disel that was a rolling pice of junk, worse truck I ever owned.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Minnesota_boy on October 28, 2004, 07:04:47 PM
Last week I bought a 1994 F-150 4X4 to tow my mill.  Today I had it ready and took the mill out with it for the first time.  Hit a deer!  :(

I was driving about 50 on a blacktop road when a deer came out of the ditch as fast as it could run and I hit it dead center.  Killed the deer of course, but I couldn't find any damage on the truck except for a very small reverse dimple where the bumper had impacted a bolt on the backside.  Whew!!  8)
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Paschale on October 28, 2004, 07:51:32 PM
Hey Furby,

What's the auction you're talking about it?  It'd be fun to see that 1950 truck...   ;)

Dan
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: gmmills on October 28, 2004, 07:54:05 PM
    I've got a 2002 Dodge 3/4 ton Cummins 6 speed. It's a 4x4 Quad cab with an 8 ft bed . This truck replaced my first Dodge. A 1991 4x4  12 valve Cummins reg cab. When I sold this truck it had 210000 miles on it.  The most reliable truck I've ever had . A friend of mine bought it and it still runs great!  
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: rebocardo on October 28, 2004, 08:44:51 PM
Yea, I can tell you why it was most likely traded in three months later. It was badly damaged, probably a fairly rare part like a frame rail or bed was needed or extensive frame work and welding where each step and its cost required insurance company inspection and approval.

It was basically totalled, guy needed it for work, went and bought another one at the same dealer. The hulk was basically sold back to the dealer by the insurance company or traded in to the same dealer by the owner for its wholesale value.

Sometimes a dealer body shop will allow the insurance company to "forget" to contact them if the adjuster is an idiot. Then after a month of $20-$40 per day for storage they use that as leverage against the insurance company.

Once it was finished (once traded in it might have taken lower priority on the bodyshop to do list) the dealer took it back and is trying to resell it.

Sounds like you missed buying a problem truck for sure.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Furby on October 28, 2004, 09:32:30 PM
Paschale,
It's the same distance as last time, just got to make a turn.  ;)
I'll IM you the info.

They sold a 1929 Ford doodlebug last Sat., kinda cool.
Got $900 for it I think.
Title: Re: Pickup trucks
Post by: Ironwood on November 02, 2004, 06:03:02 PM
I've run mostly older used vehicles. Dodges (bad) and Fords(WOW). I just replaced a 1985 F-250 4x4 extended cab 351 4 barrel. Incredible truck, used the hell out of it. Bought it with 100,000 miles. It now has 200,000 and compression checks good and balanced, runs excellent. Pulled pushed and plowed more than any truck should have to do in it's life. The only reason I'm selling is due to my need for a 12' one ton flat bed. The darn thing is still standing tall and looking good and is going to a demo. contractor. Unbelieveable, pulled huge, heavy, windsock of a trailer last year for a thousand miles for a rustic furniture event in the Adirondack's. That motor screamed the whole way, 6 MPG. It never blinked! I purchased a 1996 F-350 last Nov. Thing had 18,000 original miles and was in great shape. 460cid 4 speed (recommended for heavy hauling in the mountains) I put a 2 1/2 ton army bed on it with flip down sides, and with several removable log cranes, as well as a custom tarp system to keep the goodies dry when necessary. Great truck, love the big block, many have told me to avoid the diesels due to maintaince costs and initial cost, personally I just hate the noise, smell and cost. Not to mention I know what all the noises are coming from under my hood. If I want the thing to sound like a deisel I just bog the engine in lower gears as I pull away, sounds just like a deisel!!!!! at no extra cost. The other issue is the cosst of deisel, it's very volatile, sometimes cheaper than gas now it's much costlier, which eats up the arguement of fuel effieceny, not mention the up front cost of the deisel option. LOVE FORD PRODUCTS, Good luck. Reid