I'm in the market for a new Deisel Truck and would
appreciate some Ford truck owner feedback on how the Ford compares to the Dodge. I'm especially interested in long term durability and maintenance.

My intended use of the truck is to pull a 24 foot trailer, 7600lbs. What model would you suggest and why? What optional features seem to be valuable?

Thanks

 

Hi

I have only had my diesel for one year and I am pulling a 26' fifth wheel - I have a 250 SD PS 442 and I am very happy with it. I have pulled the trailer many times already through some very hilly areas - not the mountains yets - and it pulls with no complaint. I know you want to know long term but that's what I could give you so far. Hope it helps a little. My biggest suggestion to you would be to make sure you buy a LONG BOX if you are pulling a fifth wheel - life is a lot easier with a long box cause you get more pivot which is already limited with these SD trucks. Patti

 

Hi again

I also should have said I am pulling a 26' - but it is 7200# - are you pulling a trailer or a fifth? Patti

 

Thanks, Patti -- I,m pulling a trailer.

I'm also wondering if it's fair to discuss price on this message board. I have the MSRP from the web site at around 32,000 on a 4X2 2500 Diesel, with a few extras. I recently saw one at a dealer for 33,800 in 4X4 and a Lariat package.

My father bought a 4X2 Dodge last year thruogh Dave Smith motors in Idaho for 28,000. I guess I'm looking for what's a fair price on these new ones.

 

Hi again

About prices I probably cannot can of much help to you as I am a Canadian - I find converting and the exchanges etc. etc.. doesn't make it too clear when you are comparing - can't help you out there!
Patti

 

>Hi again
>I also should have said I am
>pulling a 26' - but it
>is 7200# - are you pulling
>a trailer or a fifth?
> Patti

 

I'll try again.
In late 1997 I purchased a 1997 F350 Crewcab w/7.3l, auto trans, air, power st, pwr brakes,4:10 limited slip diff, 4x4, Fiberglas running boards, brushguard, power rear window, am/fm stereo w/ cassette, 40/20/40 seat, aluminum alloy wheels, bed liner,etc.w/ window sticker of 38 k for 31k plus tax and title. The vehicle had 900 miles on it and is still under warrenty. I am located in central Illinois and purchased the vehicle locally. I am pleased with my deal, but also realize that this is not the ordinary, easily moved vehicle for most dealers. I searched for approx. three (3) months and drove all over most the midwest. patience is a virtue.
"D"
>

 

I too am interested in comparison. I have a 29' Fifth Wheel and am looking to buy a diesel to pull it with. I haven't owned a Dodge since 1975 - and haven't really wanted to either. The Cummins is real attractive. Just wish they put either the Cummins or Caterpillar in a Chevy! I understand Chevy is going with an Isuzu V8 diesel. I have ridden in both the Ford and Dodge. Ford seems to have better chassis, interior. Anyone ever had both a Ford and Dodge and can respond?

 

 

>I'm in the market for a new
>Deisel Truck and would appreciate some
>Ford truck owner feedback on how
>the Ford compares to the Dodge.
> I'm especially interested in long
>term durability and maintenance.
>My intended use of the truck is
>to pull a 24 foot trailer,
>7600lbs. What model would you
>suggest and why? What optional
>features seem to be valuable?
>Thanks


I Purchased this vehicle in July of 98. It's an F-250 SC Diesel 4x4 with the 3.73 rear end axel ratio. I use it mostly for operation of my construction company. I tow all types of trailors but generally pull a 22 foot gooseneck trailor with a maximum of about 15,000#. The truck preforms very well but I would rather have the 4:10 axel ratio and duall rear wheels which are only available in the F-350 configuration. I drive pretty fast but usually average around 16 to 17 mpg. Currently I have about 60K miles on the truck and it has performed flawlessly. I change oil ever 3k and check the air filter constantly. Dont rely on the air filter gague it's never worked right since the day I bought the truck.

If you have any specific questions email me I'd be happy to help....

BT.