Need some help on first time buying decision

[CMccrum]

Selling off my 00 super duty v8 for something that has power and doesn't get 12 mpg... Been a great truck in all other respects



Having a hard time making a decision though so I thought some of you might have some insight for me.



since a 97 or 98 ext cab LB 4x4 5spd with less than 100k miles on it seems to be near impossible to find...



I'm thinking either an 01 24 valve with the same configuration as above, with some modifications (edge, steering box brace, exhaust etc... ) with around 100 k miles, seem to be plenty of those around for a decent price,



Or an 03 or 04 quad cab LB 4x4 6 spd which would most likely be stock.



I'll be using the truck for work (fair bit of gravel/rough roads and snow), hauling the camper on occaision and pulling the work trailer (18 foot flat deck). The usual truck stuff.



Don't want to spend a fortune, don't need huge drag racing power, more interested in good fuel economy and no endless repair and parts bills.



Also considering a Waste Veggie oil conversion (check out dinofuelalternatives.com or frybrid) at some point.



There seems to be a better selection of 2nd gen trucks out there but I'm hesitant due to VP44 issues (say if the truck is on its 3rd lift pump--) and front end issues.



Any thoughts?? Much appreciated.

 

[wcjp]

The 03'+ is rated for more towing/hauling capacity. They also have better brakes. I wouldn't go waste veggie oil with 03'+ trucks due to tighter clearances. The 03'+ is also quieter. If possible, go with the 6spd manual.

 

[fkovalski]

I had an '01. 5 2500 Q-long bed with tow and camper package. To me in many ways it is more of a truck than my current one. It was the first with rear wheel discs, it was the last of the Dana's that one could add a manual disconnect for the CAD on the front axle (great for dropping into 4 low with only the rears providing power) for use when backing up for the camper (TT or TC?)... either one, it make hooking up easier.



Cons of the 01... the whole lift pump, VP44 crap, engine block cracking on some models, possible door rust thru, 5th gear nut on the NV-4500.



Pros: Great power with good millage, easy to get parts for, 16" wheels (more tire choices with greater capacity over 17") CAD as stated, classic good looks with great sound,













.

 

[Missouri Mule]

I vote for the 3rd generation 03 on up. Their lift pumps are pretty weak to but won't take the CP3/injection pump out.

The vp44 is costly unless you put an aftermarket lift pump such as Fass 95/150 or an Air Dog. Even though my vp44(Freightliner) has been working fine(Knock on wood) I worry about it dying out the road.

 

[jgillott]

As with any used vehicle, I think that you are best off setting a price range and then trying to find the vehicle that is in the best condition for the money you want to spend.



With that said, having owned at least one of each generation of CTD's, I can honestly say that I liked the 2001 that I had the best of them all. Now there are obviously some things that are much more refined with the 3rd gens, but all around, I think the late 2nd's are my favorite all around design. Every once in a while, I get the itch to have another one.

 

[CMccrum]

hmmmm thanks for the input everyone.

Now to complicate matters I've just found a 98 quad cab with 71k miles, long box etc... that looks like it might be a good truck. It's here in the classifieds on the TDR site. Asking price is a bit up there though.

I agree I like the older truck styling better and as far as I'm concearned the simpler mechanically (and electrically) the better... That way I can actually still work on it.

Cheers, chris

 

[CMccrum]

Oh yeah I should say that was a 98 12 valve ext cab long box. Rare truck.

 

[fkovalski]

I am not as familiar with 12V trucks... but I have heard that the 98 (pre 24V 98. 5) is highly desired.

 

[ttbird]

Almost impossible to find, check it out. If you don't like it someone else will. Driving a 12valve for fifteen years now and loving it everyday.

 

[38flathead]

I have a1996 12v and was wondering how often do I need to ajust my valve it seems that my motor at idle sounds louder but when running down the road its ok any advise thanks

 

[Ol'TrailDog]

I started with a 98 12v and had a several others as noted in my signature. Decided to go back to a 98 12v with the quad cab. My plans are to take care of this truck for a long while cuz I'm happy with it. However, I also picked up a Subaru wagon to put the daily commute miles on.



If you pick up a 2nd gen you will probably end up beefing up the front suspension and track bar system. Plenty of info around these parts on that. I went with the 3rd gen track bar option and DSS myself as a preventive measure. Only 110K on this truck.



Having said that, I do think the 2010 Cab and Chassis with the Aisan could be nice... . but not with a 6. 7, nope, not for me.

 

[CStringer]

Having said that, I do think the 2010 Cab and Chassis with the Aisan could be nice... . but not with a 6. 7, nope, not for me.

hey, the 6. 7 is great... just the dpf/egr crap that sucks. 6. 7 is just a 5. 9 with a tad longer stroke i believe... and for about 700, the egr and dpf mysteriously can disappear... :-laf