The great Debate Gas VS Diesel.

[Bowtiepower00]

Would you sell the ‘05? It just takes up space but is paid for. Insurance/Registration/Maintanence is the o my hang up.

I would keep the 05 until I was 100% sure whatever I replaced it with handled my towing needs.

Maintenance is minimal if you’re not using it often, registration is inexpensive compared to a newer truck, and if you have a safe spot to keep it, you could always run liability or non-op it if you’re only using it occasionally.

My issue with the whole 1/2 ton vs HD thing, is you’re spending 50k+ on a half ton truck, and maybe after the first long trip you realize it isn’t enough truck.

With a HD truck, you know you have enough truck. And if you get a larger boat/ trailer/ whatever, you still have enough truck. If the ride isn’t as smooth as you wanted, there are a bunch of great suspension options for each platform that will improve the ride and handling for 3-5k (or more, lol.) Frankly, I would end up doing suspension on anything that I buy regardless of make or model- except for a ZR2 Chevy.

Rent or borrow the half tons you’re interested in, and haul your boat somewhere before you get rid of the 05. On the flip side, the older Dmax trucks hold value well- so you should be able to get decent money for your truck when you sell it.

As far as DEF is concerned, I wouldn’t be. It’s relatively inexpensive, and readily available. You won’t burn a whole lot towing the 300, so one stop at a truck stop with a def pump every 3000-5000 miles isn’t that big of a deal. Again, I see a very loud minority of diesel truck owners with lemon trucks (or first year of a new design) who describe DEF issues and emission issues, but real world I don’t see most truck owners having these issues.

If you are completely against DEF and in the camp that wants to delete all of the new trucks for no reason I would keep what you already have- or go gas. I’m not anti-delete, but it’s not worth the hassle in most cases IMO.

The only gasser that I would consider as a real alternative to a diesel would be a 7.3 Ford with 4.30 gears.

If by right financial decision, you mean saving the most money, keep the 05 and find something more economical than a fullsize truck to use as a DD, lol.

 

[NicPaus]

I actually went to the dealer to trade in my 2018 1500 for another 1500. But out of every dealer in CA. None had a white or silver 6.5' bed in 4x4. They had plenty of no beds. But my tool box would not fit. So I found a 2500 in transport. They needed to have the vin to apply employee discount for all. I have my 2016 2500 HD reg cab long bed if I needed and didn't really need another 2500. Glad I went that route though as it can handle my dump trailers and skid steer if needed. It was only $1800 more as the same exact 1500 with 5.5' bed.

I have my 2015 Duramax work truck as well that will tow anything if needed. And this E350 van I am driving today I got from Chanel has plenty of power to tow just needs air bags as I have it loaded down with tools. But it has more umph with the 6.2 than my 6.0 Chevy.

 

[Hammer]

I would keep the 05 until I was 100% sure whatever I replaced it with handled my towing needs.

Maintenance is minimal if you’re not using it often, registration is inexpensive compared to a newer truck, and if you have a safe spot to keep it, you could always run liability or non-op it if you’re only using it occasionally.

My issue with the whole 1/2 ton vs HD thing, is you’re spending 50k+ on a half ton truck, and maybe after the first long trip you realize it isn’t enough truck.

With a HD truck, you know you have enough truck. And if you get a larger boat/ trailer/ whatever, you still have enough truck. If the ride isn’t as smooth as you wanted, there are a bunch of great suspension options for each platform that will improve the ride and handling for 3-5k (or more, lol.) Frankly, I would end up doing suspension on anything that I buy regardless of make or model- except for a ZR2 Chevy.

Rent or borrow the half tons you’re interested in, and haul your boat somewhere before you get rid of the 05. On the flip side, the older Dmax trucks hold value well- so you should be able to get decent money for your truck when you sell it.

As far as DEF is concerned, I wouldn’t be. It’s relatively inexpensive, and readily available. You won’t burn a whole lot towing the 300, so one stop at a truck stop with a def pump every 3000-5000 miles isn’t that big of a deal. Again, I see a very loud minority of diesel truck owners with lemon trucks (or first year of a new design) who describe DEF issues and emission issues, but real world I don’t see most truck owners having these issues.

If you are completely against DEF and in the camp that wants to delete all of the new trucks for no reason I would keep what you already have- or go gas. I’m not anti-delete, but it’s not worth the hassle in most cases IMO.

The only gasser that I would consider as a real alternative to a diesel would be a 7.3 Ford with 4.30 gears.

If by right financial decision, you mean saving the most money, keep the 05 and find something more economical than a fullsize truck to use as a DD, lol.

Well put. I appreciate the insight.

Im Not anti DEF. I just read online everyone saying to delete the DEF , too much electronics… blah blah blah….

I just want a newer/nice truck if I’m going to be in it everyday. I don’t need to sell or buy anything . I don’t want to regret dropping a big chunk of money on a new truck that’s a piece of shit. I know plenty of people that are happy with new cars.

I agree with you on having a 3/4 ton truck and not worrying about it being big enough to tow.

Thanks for the piece of mind.

 

[hallett21]

Just checked what the curb weight of a 2005 2500 GM is. It’s 6k

A 2024 1500 is 5700 lbs.

Today’s half tons are just as heavy as the “holy grail” era of trucks.

 

[Hammer]

Just checked what the curb weight of a 2005 2500 GM is. It’s 6k

A 2024 1500 is 5700 lbs.

Today’s half tons are just as heavy as the “holy grail” era of trucks.

How does the curb weight impact everything?

Im assuming it won’t get pushed around towing heavier weight?

 

[hallett21]

How does the curb weight impact everything?

Im assuming it won’t get pushed around towing heavier weight?

I think the argument in the past has been exactly that. But I don’t see how that’s true.

I do see how having an 8ft bed + CC gets you a longer (more stable) wheelbase compared to a half ton. Also having a stiffer rear end allows for significantly more payload.

A 2004 F250 shows 6,200 lbs on the heaviest side.

 

[Bowtiepower00]

For reference, my ‘16 Ram 2500 CCSB was just over 8k with a full tank of fuel, and my ‘17 3500 Megacab SRW is almost 9k. The other late model HD trucks are similar. Subtract 500-1000 pounds for a gasser.

 

[OC Mike]

Mike. Have you weighed your 300?
Our 270 with full gear and 100 gals fuel weighs in at 7800.
It's been towed with F250 and 2 F-150’s. 2014 f-150 Had HD tow package. I did add the RAS springs. Did OK, not like the F250.
Still not as stable as I would like. Always felt like it needed a sway bar, never did it.
Got the 22, towed it stock. Ok, not bad. Added rear sway bar and Helwig overloads, Locked it down solid…
Very satisfied. Ford doesn't put rear sway bars. Not sure what GM does on 1500.

 

[Hammer]

Mike. Have you weighed your 300?
Our 270 with full gear and 100 gals fuel weighs in at 7800.
It's been towed with F250 and 2 F-150’s. 2014 f-150 Had HD tow package. I did add the RAS springs. Did OK, not like the F250.
Still not as stable as I would like. Always felt like it needed a sway bar, never did it.
Got the 22, towed it stock. Ok, not bad. Added rear sway bar and Helwig overloads, Locked it down solid…
Very satisfied. Ford doesn't put rear sway bars. Not sure what GM does on 1500.

No I have never weighed the 300. It holds 175 gallons of fuel I think.

 

[hallett21]

Hallett claims 6200 dry. Figure 2k in fuel and gear? The trailer probably weighs 3-4k.

 

[Hammer]

Hallett claims 6200 dry. Figure 2k in fuel and gear? The trailer probably weighs 3-4k.

You think it weighs 12k lbs.? It’s possible…. I should probably put it on a scale and settle this decision. Lol

 

[sml]

Hammer, if it’s in the budget just get the 3/4 ton diesel. Be happy and don’t second guess anything. Get a warranty. This is what we work for, to have nice things and enjoy them.

As far as daily driving it, yeah the 1500 will ride nicer but other than that so what! If it is that big of a deal aftermarket suspension can solve that. size wise look at it like you and the family will be safer….I’m close to getting a freightliner to daily drive mainly because of all the near misses with stoned idiots on their phones, chicks (and dudes) putting on make up and the ones eating 5 course meals behind the wheel.

 

[OC Mike]

You think it weighs 12k lbs.? It’s possible…. I should probably put it on a scale and settle this decision. Lol

That wave crusher dwarfs mine at the ramp.
I'm guessing your at least 10.5k...
Fuel and gear can make a big diff.
Please share when you find out.

 

[Hammer]

That wave crusher dwarfs mine at the ramp.
I'm guessing your at least 10.5k...
Fuel and gear can make a big diff.
Please share when you find out.

I'll see when I can put it on a scale and share.

 

[FROGMAN524]

You think it weighs 12k lbs.? It’s possible…. I should probably put it on a scale and settle this decision. Lol

I’m at 12,500 or so with a full tank and some gear on trailer.

 

[Hammer]

I’m at 12,500 or so with a full tank and some gear on trailer.

Good to know.

 

[brecht]

Just lube up, close your eyes and sign

I picked my 350 with the tremor and HO diesel on Saturday. 100k/5 year warranty like others suggested. Still on the original tank but DEF gauge seems to think I'll get 9k miles from a fill so I don't think it's that big of a hassle. I will top fuel and def before a trip anyway. The 10 speed transmission is super smooth

It will be a daily driver, getting a smaller toy hauler after summer but want the option of going fifth wheel in a few years. I had 2016 f150 where tow capacity was always an issue. With the price of trucks I just wanted to buy once, cry once, and hopefully hit 500k without thinking about a new one. There is no "I wish I had more" with this truck

I'm getting about 17mpg currently. Motor has 300 miles on it now. Ford forum users have said it should go up to around 22 once the motor is broken in. No towing, just driving.

I'll be out in Havasu this weekend with it so we'll see how it goes. Boat is already out there so it's just going to the launch ramp and back but the drive there will be pretty comfy lol

 

[Hammer]

Just lube up, close your eyes and sign

I picked my 350 with the tremor and HO diesel on Saturday. 100k/5 year warranty like others suggested. Still on the original tank but DEF gauge seems to think I'll get 9k miles from a fill so I don't think it's that big of a hassle. I will top fuel and def before a trip anyway. The 10 speed transmission is super smooth

It will be a daily driver, getting a smaller toy hauler after summer but want the option of going fifth wheel in a few years. I had 2016 f150 where tow capacity was always an issue. With the price of trucks I just wanted to buy once, cry once, and hopefully hit 500k without thinking about a new one. There is no "I wish I had more" with this truck

I'm getting about 17mpg currently. Motor has 300 miles on it now. Ford forum users have said it should go up to around 22 once the motor is broken in. No towing, just driving.

I'll be out in Havasu this weekend with it so we'll see how it goes. Boat is already out there so it's just going to the launch ramp and back but the drive there will be pretty comfy lol

I’m out of lube though .

 

[hallett21]

Just lube up, close your eyes and sign

I picked my 350 with the tremor and HO diesel on Saturday. 100k/5 year warranty like others suggested. Still on the original tank but DEF gauge seems to think I'll get 9k miles from a fill so I don't think it's that big of a hassle. I will top fuel and def before a trip anyway. The 10 speed transmission is super smooth

It will be a daily driver, getting a smaller toy hauler after summer but want the option of going fifth wheel in a few years. I had 2016 f150 where tow capacity was always an issue. With the price of trucks I just wanted to buy once, cry once, and hopefully hit 500k without thinking about a new one. There is no "I wish I had more" with this truck

I'm getting about 17mpg currently. Motor has 300 miles on it now. Ford forum users have said it should go up to around 22 once the motor is broken in. No towing, just driving.

I'll be out in Havasu this weekend with it so we'll see how it goes. Boat is already out there so it's just going to the launch ramp and back but the drive there will be pretty comfy lol

I’m the last person to say don’t buy a 3/4-1+ton truck.

But within 200k miles I bought a lot of DEF lol. Maybe it’s the Jake brake in the Cummins?

If you’re pulling 10k+ loads routinely then by all means get a HD diesel. If you’re trying to compare early 2000’s trucks to anything, then buy a modern half ton.

 

[Andy B.]

Just lube up, close your eyes and sign

I picked my 350 with the tremor and HO diesel on Saturday. 100k/5 year warranty like others suggested. Still on the original tank but DEF gauge seems to think I'll get 9k miles from a fill so I don't think it's that big of a hassle. I will top fuel and def before a trip anyway. The 10 speed transmission is super smooth

It will be a daily driver, getting a smaller toy hauler after summer but want the option of going fifth wheel in a few years. I had 2016 f150 where tow capacity was always an issue. With the price of trucks I just wanted to buy once, cry once, and hopefully hit 500k without thinking about a new one. There is no "I wish I had more" with this truck

I'm getting about 17mpg currently. Motor has 300 miles on it now. Ford forum users have said it should go up to around 22 once the motor is broken in. No towing, just driving.

I'll be out in Havasu this weekend with it so we'll see how it goes. Boat is already out there so it's just going to the launch ramp and back but the drive there will be pretty comfy lol

Let the def run at least to a 1/4 tank read the manual, you want to keep the Def fresh. When it sits to long it can clog up the filters I'm sure the diesel mechanics here can chime in.
Nice truck!

 

[hallett21]

I routinely pulled over 20k of gross weight behind a 3500 service body Cummins. At that point yes you need a HD truck.

Something tells me the average member isn’t ringing that bell lol.

It’s not a dick swinging contest, just operate the truck that handles your load.

 

[brecht]

I’m the last person to say don’t buy a 3/4-1+ton truck.

But within 200k miles I bought a lot of DEF lol. Maybe it’s the Jake brake in the Cummins?

If you’re pulling 10k+ loads routinely then by all means get a HD diesel. If you’re trying to compare early 2000’s trucks to anything, then buy a modern half ton.

When I mentioned small I mean just not a giant 40 footer fifth wheel. I'll be getting a ~28 footer tow behind toy hauler which is too big for a half ton. Throw in a 4 seater rzr and all bets are off. My 2016 F150 with the 3.5 Ecoboost would get pretty hot through the 40 after Needles from Havasu towing the boat in my avatar (23 footer) and I know you guys got way bigger boats than me

Gasser 350 would have been plenty but I already lose enough measuring contests lol

 

[Runs2rch]

I’m at 12,500 or so with a full tank and some gear on trailer.

Close. We pulled it with a half ton to and from the ramp. 30 weighs closer to 10k on the trailer. Its a huge difference vs the 335 you can feel when towing.

 

[WTR&PWR]

I recently went from a 3500 ram dually to a 1500 baby DMAX and couldn’t be happier. Hauled my 29’ Lavey with zero issues and actually way better than I ever hoped. Plus it’s my daily driver and I average 29mpg. I don’t know anyway to say it other than it’s the absolute best all around truck I’ve ever owned. Less than 10k towing I wouldn’t even think twice. 1500 baby dmax 4wd you will be stoked. Fully loaded 65k out the door for an LTZ if you shop around. 55k out the door for an LT.

 

[Dr Rob]

I’m out of lube though .

If you get a chance, give me a call.7024914568