Hey guys, new guy here.

I own a 2001 Tacoma 4x2 V6 3.4L (PreRunner - 4x2 on the 4x4 suspension and frame, has a rear locker). Ya, it's an alright truck. It's not perfect, but it gets me around. Only gets about 14 MPG, 15 if I'm lucky.

Anyways, I have really been interested in a domestic full size truck, probably used. I'm looking for a 4x4 8 cylinder (would strongly consider a diesel), 2 door with an 8 foot bed. I need bed space - I do a lot of yard/lawn care and hauling, which covers everything from mulch, to gravel to manure. I also tow a trailer occasionally, although it's not massive (just a 5'x8'). In terms of 4x4...I do some off roading, and my yard work does call for me to go into mud or non-ideal conditions. I also deal with snow every winter.

So what I'm getting at, is could you all lead me in a good direction? Tell me what I'm missing?

Thanks,

Mike

 

Well, I guess the big question is going to be: What do you want to spend? From there we can pinpoint you further.

Welcome by the way!

 

Well I was thinking a used truck, ideally under $5000 would be great, but I realize that's not reasonable. Money is a factor, but if I need to spend 'X' dollars to get what I need, I'll do it. What price range am I looking at for a used 3/4 or one ton 4x4 8 cylinder diesel 2 dr 8 foot bed, older truck with around 120,000 miles? It doesn't have to be in perfect condition - it's gonna be worked hard. Maybe a pre-2000's model?

 

Just a note, beware if you buy a diesel that old with that few miles on it. Thats hardly anything for a diesel, make sure you buy from someone reputable/who you trust.

 

How many miles should I expect on an older diesel?

Would I be able to get a good, newer diesel for under $10,000?

 

The answer to your last question, basically, is no. The 2001 GMC 2500 2wd work truck duramax with 340,000 on it that I'm working on buying is worth $8-10,000 as is.

For a newer Duramax diesel you would probably be looking at spending $15-25k on and I would personally stay away from the older 6.5 and 6.5 turbo that they put in the C/K pickups... with those things it seems to be hit or miss.

My uncle just sold his 2003 GMC 2500HD 4x4 with 94,000 miles on it for $9400, but it had the 6liter gas engine, which is a great engine. I picked up my 98 2500HD for $3500 (but it needed A LOT of work).

Hopefully I've helped to answer a few questions?

 

Ya that's real good information.

340,000 is a lot of miles...no significant problems associated with that?

I might look into the 6 liter gas also.

Sounds like the diesel option really raises value?

 

Diesels make a big difference in price. I'd go as far as saying that in 15 years 75% of automobiles will be diesels.

But anyway, if you're hellbent on getting a diesel I'd go with Dodge's Cummings. 1998-2005 with fairly high mileage would probably be something in your price range. My family use to have an 03 Cummings crew cab 2500HD. It got 21ish and it was bone stock. No chips/tunes nothing. It was also an automatic transmission.

 

Ok I'll look into those Rams too.

Really what it comes down to, is I need a work truck. Need something that will tow and haul and get the job done. And I will go with a diesel.

Thanks for the help. I appreciate it.

 

Well, I don't know how pertinent it is, but I just traded in our 2006 GMC Duramax today on a 2011 Ford F-350 6.7 Powerstroke.

The Duramax had 100,000 on it, and when the dealer came back and told me he could give me $19,500. I told him that was absolutely insulting and got up to leave. Negotiations resumed and he ended up giving $26k for it. I betcha it'll be on the dealer lot on Monday for $32k.

I was told by my father to take the truck down and he'd sign papers if I could get himunder 3% financing and owe less than $30k for a new one. It took some work, but Mom now has herself a new truck!

(Oh, you might want to take a look at Ford's older 7.3 diesel, but stay away from the 6.0 and 6.4)