Hi everyone , I plan on buying a new (to me) 1995- 2003 truck in the near future and I have a few questions. I plan on towing a Bobcat s185 (about 7000lbs), maybe some light plowing and to transport a dirt bike. All work and towing would be around my house or relatives not a business with the bobcat. It will not be my everyday driver I would use it at the most once a week. It doesn't need to be pretty but mechanically sound and reliable. Budget is about $8000 and I don't care what brand it is either. Are there certain models, motors brands etc to stay away from? I've been looking mostly at f250 and dodge 2500. Should I look for a diesel or gas?

 

If you're towing heavy weight a lot, spend the money on the diesel. Be warned that everything is a little more expensive with a diesel when it comes to maintenance... I have owned my 04 Dodge 2500 with a cummins since I bought it new in 2004, and I wouldn't trade it for the world, but it does cost more money to maintain than a gas 2500 would.
Scott

 

Welcome to truck forums
Glad your here

 

5.9L Cummins would be more fun than a V10 gasser.
Gasser would be cheaper up front and would pull the weight you are looking at.
Either will work, personal preference and budget at this point.

 

I would like advice. I have a toyota 2005 tundra 103000 miles in good shape. My mom and dad have a fifth wheel camper they gave me. It dry weight is 7600 so add 1000 for stuff and 8600. My truck is rated for 6900.
He has a 1995 dodge cummin diesel with 117000 miles that he purchased in 1995 to pull the camper. It pull great. It is a little dinged up but has been taken care of very well. The trade in on the dodge is 5600 dollars. The trade in on the toyota is 10500 dollars. I know a diesel will last longer. I like the camper.
Question I need help with. would you trade the toyota for the diesel or would this be a crazy thing to do. just give me opinions. That is all I ask.
Thanks ahead of time.
Thanks for the truck forum to help .

 

RonnyD,

I would definitely take that trade especially since they gave you the camper.

You may want to start your own post though. Welcome.

 

Towing 7,000 lbs means you need a 3/4 ton or 1 ton truck.

Diesel gives you more pull (torque) for towing, but needs more filter and injector care. Gas is often cheaper to buy and fix.

Good engines to look at (1995–2003) are the Ford 7.3L Power Stroke or the Dodge 5.9L Cummins. Be careful about rust, black smoke, or transmission problems.

Always have a mechanic inspect the truck. Check the service records and test drive it. Plan to spend $8,000 or more and save some money for immediate fixes.