Posted 2007-11-14 4:13 PM (#71203) Subject: Gas Engines Versus Diesel Engines?
Veteran
Posts: 285
Since we were on the other topic of trucks, I am just wondering how you compare gas engines to the diesel engines. True, the diesels are getting more expensive to operate but I am also looking at the long term value, say for instance a one ton dually with 200,000 miles on it. I know there a lot of circumstances to be considered but I would be apt to buy the diesel engine with that many miles compared to a gas engine with that many miles, providing everything else on both trucks were equal. Debbie
Posted 2007-11-14 5:08 PM (#71211 - in reply to #71203) Subject: RE: Gas Engines Versus Diesel Engines?
Expert
Posts: 5870 Location: western PA
Either vehicle with that many miles will experience constant maintenance and you can expect some expensive repairs. The diesel will be more reliable than the gas at that mileage, the gas will probably need a major overhaul or replacement very soon.
The routine maintenance performed by the previous owner will determine if either truck is worth purchasing with that many miles. If synthetic lubricants were used, it's a definite plus. How often the oil changes were made, standard transmission or auto, there are many variables.
The ownership of the truck will involve other costs not directly attributable to the motor; brakes, transmission, rear axle, front end, four wheel drive etc. They are all subject to wear and their repairs can be a significant cost.
Diesels usually sell for more than the gas because of their higher initial cost, better fuel economy under load, and long term durability. They are built more robustly than the gas engines, run at a slower rpm and their fuel is a lubricant as opposed to gasoline which is a solvent. This results in minimal cylinder/piston ring wear, much less than a gas engine.
People who own diesels are usually very opinioned in their ownership and would not go back to a gas. Many gas owners can't wait to own a diesel.
Posted 2007-11-14 6:34 PM (#71216 - in reply to #71203) Subject: RE: Gas Engines Versus Diesel Engines?
Expert
Posts: 3853 Location: Vermont
Originally written by classygirl98 on 2007-11-14 4:13 PM
Since we were on the other topic of trucks, I am just wondering how you compare gas engines to the diesel engines. True, the diesels are getting more expensive to operate but I am also looking at the long term value, say for instance a one ton dually with 200,000 miles on it. I know there a lot of circumstances to be considered but I would be apt to buy the diesel engine with that many miles compared to a gas engine with that many miles, providing everything else on both trucks were equal. Debbie
I think Used trucks are a crap-shoot...You could come across the Meticulously Maintained Gasser that only pulled their RV at 55 versus the no-maintenance Cowboyed-Diesel that pulled 25K+ @ 70 mph...that's why I try to buy new because I want and need the warranty...I have to rotate trucks off of a frontline role because commercially, I won't be given jobs if the truck is too old...But then, I get to deduct my trucks...
Posted 2007-11-14 9:44 PM (#71226 - in reply to #71203) Subject: RE: Gas Engines Versus Diesel Engines?
Veteran
Posts: 216 Location: Chillicothe, Ohio
All things being equal, I believe a diesel is the way to go. Yes, the truck is more expensive, yes the maintenance is higher, but when hauling, the diesel truck I currently use (99f350, 7.3, manual) gets 11-12mpg hauling a 4hsooner with lq. Most gas trucks are running 8-9mpg hauling a similar load...even with the price difference of diesel (which I still cant figure out why) I believe the diesel is the way to go...plus I believe the diesel engine will have a longer life maintenance being equal. However this topic always gets a lot of opinions both ways...so in the end, either will haul, use what you have and enjoy yourself.
Gas Engines Versus Diesel Engines?
