I’m trying to find a reliable used truck

From what I’ve gathered, I’ve been bouncing between gas and diesel options. I hear the 6.0 Chevy is good, the 6.2 is super reliable but underpowered, and the 6.4 could be okay but I’m not sure. If you can’t go with those, the Ecoboost could be a good choice. I’d listen to the more knowledgeable people here.

Buy a 7.3 (99.5+). If you want a diesel truck, this is your best bet. You can get one for $10,000-$15,000 but expect to put another $10K into it over the next 5 years. You’re going to need to learn how to fix things yourself or have a reasonable mechanic. The 7.3 Super Duty is simple to work on, and you’ll save money on parts and tools rather than constantly going to a shop.

@Blake

Keep in mind you’re going to need to learn how to fix things yourself,

My 96 7.3 basically taught me how to wrench. 430k miles, still purring after about 20 seconds of cranking. It’s all about learning the basics. The 7.3 is a great engine to learn on.

@Hollis

My 96 7.3 taught me how to wrench.

Same here with my 99.5. Before that, I only knew how to change brakes and radiators. After owning it for 4.5 years, I’ve done everything myself except for a water pump the first month.

@Hollis
Sounds like you need the 6.0’s starter installed.

Luca said:
@Hollis
Sounds like you need the 6.0’s starter installed.

I have the international 7.3 starter, spins fast, almost like a new truck. It needs injector o-rings though, nothing major but needs fixing every now and then.

@Blaze
What’s a gasser?

@Blake
Or spend $3,500 on a 7.3 IDI and run it for 5 years with no issues.

Perry said:
@Blake
Or spend $3,500 on a 7.3 IDI and run it for 5 years with no issues.

Can confirm, I daily a 6.9.

@Blake
99 is better than 99.5 because the wheel bearings are rebuildable. Had my front two done for $100 instead of $600.

Bailey said:
@Blake
99 is better than 99.5 because the wheel bearings are rebuildable. Had my front two done for $100 instead of $600.

Early 99s have parts issues. Late 99s and onwards are better for availability. The wheel bearings on the early 99s can be a hassle, but they’re easy to replace with cheap parts from Amazon.

@Blake
It’s not a dually. I would have swapped the bearings myself, but for the price I had some pros do it.

@Blake
Woosh

Man, when I was 18, nobody could tell me anything. Now that I’m 50, nothing has changed. But what I’ve learned is you’re going to spend your time or your money on a truck. I’m okay spending the time to learn repairs, but what about you? If you’re okay with learning, it’s a good decision.

$20k for a used diesel will cost you another $10k in repairs over the next 2 years. I paid $24k for my 06 5.9 with 88k miles. It’s been reliable, but I’ve spent $15k on maintenance over 5 years. If you’re not in a position to spend big on repairs, look for a gas truck.

Sloane said:
@Blaze
What’s a gasser?

A truck with a gasoline-powered engine.

Kim said:

Sloane said:
@Blaze
What’s a gasser?

A truck with a gasoline-powered engine.

Any domestic 1/2-ton truck will do. Ford 5.0, 5.7 Hemi, or GM 6.2 are solid choices from 2010+ in the $10-20k range.

@Remy
1/4 ton? You mean 1/2 ton?

Perry said:
@Remy
1/4 ton? You mean 1/2 ton?

Yes, I meant 1/2 ton. Fixed it.

Kim said:

Sloane said:
@Blaze
What’s a gasser?

A truck with a gasoline-powered engine.

What’s a good gasser?