12v or 24v...help me decide

[sdaves]

Need opinions on which engine would be better for me, 12 valve or 24 valve?



Will be using to two 18' utility trailer, skid steer, tracks and trencher. Weight with trailer and stuff about 11-12k lbs.



What I want is a RELIABLE and strong truck. Do NOT plan on bombing the truck. Only thing is maybe upgrading transmission if I end up getting an auto (want a stick. ) The truck I buy will probably have AT LEAST 75,000 miles. From what I can gather the lifter pumps are more reliable (mechanical) on the 12v trucks. I know the 24v trucks have more power, but want something that will go 300k+ miles.



The only things about the newer trucks that I really like are 1) the 6 speed, 2) the new aluminum wheels, 3) trailer tow mirrors, 4) quad cab.



I can always buy aftermarket wheels, might get the lucerix mirrors anyway, and can get 98 12 with a quad cab right?



Ok guys, this is your chance to tout the advantages of your trucks. Will be posted in 24v and 12v forums.



Again... thanks for all the info.

 

[SEmerson]

I have a 24 and Would rather have a 12. Thay seem alot more reliable.

 

[HC]

Tough call. If I could choose between two brand new trucks, equal in all other ways, I'd probably go 12V also. (I have a 24V HO six speed).



But, back to reality. The six speed is a great feature; the quad cab is a great feature. Both are on your "wish I could have" list. You didn't mention mpg, which would favor the 12V. Sounds to me like you should buy the first "clean" (well cared for mechanically) manual transmission quad cab you find in your price range. If you end up with a 24V, then get a fuel pressure gauge, and throw a spare lift pump in the tool box. Some last, some go out, but worst case it's a $160 part (from Cummins) that you can replace yourself. And when they do go, you usually get some early warning from the pressure gauge, so it's not like you'll have to do the replacement at 3 AM on the Interstate. All JMO, of course.



(Don't know if I've helped. Bottom line is that each truck has a lot of pros and cons. I worry about my lift pump, but I like the fact that I can deal with that easier than I could deal with a 5th gear nut or killer dowel pin. Whatever you get, the TDR forums will allow you to lean on others who have faced and solved that problem. )

 

[WyoJim]

sdaves... I have had and hauled with both. Either one will work for you. I pulled horses and hay all over the Rocky Mountains with my 12 valve and the only problem pulling with it was the wide gear spacing of the five speed. Once in a while I would have to start out and pull a hill in third that I had the power to pull in fourth but was out of the torque range by the time I completed the shift.



The 12 valve started quicker and got slightly better mileage. But both in stock condition, the 24 valve has way more power than my 12 valve did.

That being said, I would slightly bomb either one, especially for hauling. An EZ on my 24 valve has made it into a different truck!!!



I carry a spare lift pump, and a spare thermostat under the back seat.

 

[danandamy]

Let's see... . 24 you get:

Lift pump=pos

injector pump=borderline pos

If you do decide to upgrade power ("I plan to stay stock", yeah we all said that once) it's easier to install on the 24v but more expensive.

If you get a new enough 24v you will have some warranty most of us look at this as a bad thing, you might be tempted to actually let the dealership work on it.



Now, 12v you get:

Lift pump= no problemo

Injector pump=P7100 need I say more?

Power upgrades are cheaper and if you have a standard they will pretty much eliminate the spacing problem with the 5 speed.

Perhaps best of all, NO WARRANTY so you won't even be TEMPTED to be taking it to the dealership to screw up more than they fix.



There you have it but then again, I'm a little biased



12v dan

 

[Deezul1]

I had that decision once also and decided on the 12V because there is nothing on the motor that is computer controlled. I dont care for the lack of throttle linkage on the 24V, I just dont think the puter knows best when its time increase engine speed (or not as has happened to some) both engines are excellent and the power available from both is easy to bring out. More money on 24V a little more labor on 12V but still real easy. Its all the computer sensors and controls that made me go with a 12V and I love it.

 

[sdaves]

keep 'em coming

You guys are great! Keep the info/opinions coming.



I am leaning towards a 1998 12v, quad cab. Only ones around here that I have found for sale are automatics and are asking around 20-21k for them with 60-80k miles.



There is a 1999 24v that I have driven twice. It has 84k miles and is an automatic quad cab. Seems to be in good shape, at a dealer so dont know any history. They started out asking 21,800 for it and are now down to 18,500. I cant do anything until I sell my truck, so no reason to get in a hurry. I'm not in a rush and might be a good thing because it is slim pickins right now.



Again... thanks,.