1st or 2nd gen?

[4020Deere]

Recently, I have been thinking of getting a 2nd generation truck. I really like my 1st gen, but there have been a few things that have made me start thinking about a 2nd gen. Prior to the 1st gen I owned 2 different 2nd gen gassers (hated the gas engines, but liked the truck). I realize that there are some distinct differences among the two. I really like the manual front hubs, NP205 transfer case, ease of maintenance under the hood, and how rugged the truck is. But what I don't like is the VERY harsh ride (neither does my wife!), small rear jumpseats, VE pump, and Getrag trans. If I were to go to a 2nd gen truck I would want a 12V 5 speed also. I really like the idea of the P7100 pump, the NV4500 (except for the 5th gear nut), quad cab, ride quality, and fit & finish. I would like to get some opinions from others that have experience with both 1st and 2nd gen trucks on what I should do?

 

[Matt S]

I guess it is a personal decision. After all your the one having to drive it and make the payments. My next truck will be a 2nd Gen probably. At the time I bought my 1st Gen (used) I couldn't afford a 2nd Gen. However, there is nothing wrong with the 1st Gen. It is paid for and will last until I'm tired of driving it. Saying that I may never get a 2nd Gen but a 3rd or 4th Gen! I have taken a 2001 HO for a spin. It was a 3500 and I have a W-250. I couldn't believe the smoothness of the ride compared to my truck. And this was a dually! I have since vowed to never drive one again (2nd Gen). It is easier on my wallet.

 

[Gary - K7GLD]

MY '91 has been absolutely the most reliable, trouble-free vehicle I have ever owned!



BUT, I drool over the classier 2nd generation trucks, and after a ride in my brother in law's '95, feel like throwing rocks at mine!



Those later trucks DO sometimes have a few built-in problems and higher percentage of failures in selected areas, but the overall difference in quality, ride and features puts them in a totally different class than the first generation trucks. My truck is, well, a TRUCK - the later models STILL do all the chores, but do it with comfort and class!

 

[KEENO]

First Gen Forever, Baby! (F.G.F.B.)

Hey 4020!



My opinion is so biased toward the First Gen trucks that it's really NOT fair for me to comment! It's really just a personal preference & need situation. I'm single & love the bold appearance & overbuilt construction (exception: Getrag) of the First Gens... I have no need of a quad cab or the niceties associated w/ the second gen trucks (my std. cab W250 suits my needs perfectly).



I must admit that I do have a severe case of "P" Pump Envy and have thought about the 2nd Gen Trucks for this feature. I believe (my opinion once again) that a 2nd. Gen would be perfect if I could completely rip off the existing 2nd Gen 4X4 front end & coil springs and install a genuine Dana 60 w/ manual hubs and some National Springs or Skyjacker Leaf Springs. With the Skyjacker Suspension installed & "D" rated tires, I feel my truck rides better than the 2nd Gens I've ridden in off-road. The Skyjacker front srings alone make a remarkable difference in ride on & off road comfort. But then I would still have the die cast aluminum - chain driven T-box... .



I have the perfect solution if in the end you chose 2nd Generation Cummins. Sell your awesome looking ride to ME (I think it's almost perfect) & I'll spend the $300. 00 on frt. springs and have the W350 "Dually" I've always wanted to keep my W250 company. Please! Iowa isn't that far away from "Nash Vegas" Tennessee & we've already been to the "Left Coast" for a W250 for a friend last October!



KEENO

(F. G. F. B. )