Disclaimer: Sorry for the long Read....
As the title states.... I'm starting my search for a different truck. That will be used as my daily driver and tow rig. And looking for experience & advise from those that own either on or both.
The back story.... Currently we (I) have a 2009 Chevy Silverado Crew Cab 2500HD, equipped w/ the 6.0 V8 gasser & 6 speed auto trans @ ~155,000 miles on the odometer. Mainly looking to upgrade to a diesel for the tow power factor. As last year we upgraded the camper (+2') to a 32-33' and are starting to pull 3 wheelers with on ATV/Camping trips, now that the son is old enough to ride his own!! My truck does an 'okay' job, but you can tell it works/struggles on grades and I have the feeling it's maybe getting a little 'tired'. So thinking it's time to move up to a true "big boy's" truck. :)
My current search criteria:
1) Used.... possibly New (?), This really depending on programs/incentives on a lease or financing options. But it will likely used.... just can't justify new for my 8k-10k miles per year.
2) 2007+ Chevy / GMC 6.6 Duramax ----or---- 2010+ Dodge RAM 6.7 Cummins, either 2500 / 3500 (3/4 or 1 Ton's).
3) Leather interior.... not that it has anything to do with performance, but more so cleaning maintenance! :fing02:
4) Upgrade years & drop some miles.
So, I'm looking for your input of past experience, wisdom learned, knowledge, or simply anything pertinent on these trucks! From things like, what years to "stay away from"? What miles should I expect to replace what parts (injectors, pumps, turbo, ect & so on)? Both positive and negative comments (please no brand bashing) welcomed? On any and all issues experienced???
I've always been a GM fan / owner.... but recently the family has test driven a few different used models from the big 3. Note, all of these were at local dealers. Models were as follows (obviously my truck #1):
1) 2009 Chevy LT @ 155k (my truck)
2) 2011 Chevy 2500HD LTZ 6.6 @ 116k @ $33k
3) 2012 Ram 2500 6.7 Laramie @ 83k @ $35k
4) 2008 Ford 3500 6.4 Lariat @ 120k @ $25k
5) 2013 Ram 2500 6.7 Tradesman @ 98k @ $30k
6) 2010 Ram 3500 6.7 BigHorn @ 137k @ $27k
Of all those models we all really liked the 2012 Ram 2500 Laramie... But just couldn't pull the trigger due to some 'issues'. They dropped the price to $34k and upped my trade $500 and stated they were motivated. But we test drove this one twice... first time it had WeatherTech floor mats, that went missing before the second test drive 2 weeks later. Had a few more body scratches / digs than I wanted, but could overlook. The window sticker also stated 60days/2500 miles driveline warranty, which when I asked about it was stated it was checked in error and shouldn't have had it and was to be sold 'as is'. Then there was an oil leak between the engine/trans, which I couldn't tell if it was a pan gasket or possibly rear main seal?? When I mentioned this and asked if the warranty would cover it... he asked his manager and that's when the warranty disappeared. But I could buy an extended and it would cover it... if they "didn't know about it" (wink, wink). So I asked to speak to the previous owner and they couldn't reach them. Auh... No, those items spoiled the deal for me! Not to mention I was a little hesitant / reluctant to jump ship to a completely new brand, but an ready if that's the voice of the people... I'm ready and wiling to try one!!
And Sorry Ford owners.... But no one in the family cared for the Ford's interior look / comfort or it's ride comfort / handling (and Yes, I've been told it maybe wasn't the best or truest comparison and should find a newer Ford to compete... but it was what was available at the time!).
Finding out I may need to bump up my search range from $25-35k, up to $35-45k to find a 'decent' rig! :D
So PLEASE.... let me hear it!! And THANKS in advance!!
Ford's smart jacket aims to solve a number of safety issues related to commuting on a bicycle.