First off greetings everybody, long time reader new member. I'm looking for a rig that can pull towing, hunting, camping, and light wheeling duty for 8 or 9 grand. I plan on a small lift so an ifs chevy is at the bottom of my list. I'm looking towards a 90's dodge or ford 3/4 ton with a manual tranny. Any years to avoid or look for?
I'm a Dodge guy, so I'll start with Dodge. Any of the about '92-98 Dodges would work good for you. How heavy are you pulling? I would actually recommend maybe the 360 gas engine if you aren't pulling heavy, since you will be wheeling it just a little. The Cummins is heavy, and can be hard on the D60, the lighter 360 would make wheeling a little easier. Plus, if you went with a 360 you could get a much newer truck for your money. If you are towing heavy, and you won't be wheeling anything difficult or hard on the truck much, than the Cummins would be nice. I'd stay away from most of the 3/4t Fords, they had a TTB front end setup from the early 80's to late into the 90's. Even then early Super duty trucks had a wierd D50 front axle. If you want Ford I'd hunt for a 1 ton truck, especially in the mid 90's to late 90's. That square body with a round grille. I think it's 95-97 IIRC. That Powerstroke is a great engine and those trucks are SOLID. My grandpa has 328K on his '95 PSD. Same thing though, I'd look into the gas versions to save on weight if you are going to really wheel it.
I am a Dodge Diesel guy also. I personally would stay away from anything 1/2 ton. 1/2 tons have weak trannys and weak axles. If you tow heavy get a diesel. If you don't tow heavy maybe a gasser is a good option. Diesels are more $$$ but they are pretty tough, last longer, tow much better, and usually get better mileage. Maintanence costs can be more but that is a tradeoff that I am totally willing to make. Unloaded on the highway I get 20-22 MPG usually at 65-70mph. If you buy a diesel a manual tranny is a good option since auto's (especially dodge autos) aren't that strong. The only stock auto that does ok is the Allison but it has its limits also. Harley
I also agree on the Dodge there. For the year your wanting, a Cummins 12 Valve with the 5 spd is an animal. Had a 95 4x4 5 spd, strong truck.waytogo
