Not to hijack this topic, but everyone on here with the 6.8 is always talking about the 5 star tune. I went to their site and there are a lot of options. Specifically, what have you used from 5 star? Maybe pm me

 

Yes the V-10 with 5-STAR tune. I pull my toy hauler all over the Big Horn Mts. of Wyoming & The Black Hills of Wyoming/South Dakota. The new torque shift tranny is awesome and also programable, many compare it to the Allision tranny.Even with the 4.10 it is a pulling monster and very very little up-keep. I actually wish mine had 373s. The tuned 6.4 is plain out bad ***!!! but then you are just waiting & wondering when somthing is going to go out. Dont even bother with the 6.ohno. Happy hunting

 

Call Mike at 5star. He will set you up with a custom tune for the V10.

 

As do I, although part time for now.


Why? Just because or are you trying to race the other landscapers pulling your trailer? I know thats not the case.

I had the 5.4 in a 2006 250. Would NEVER recommend that motor, sorry 5.4 guys. Stepped up to this V10 and have been happy with it. I pull a 14k dump trailer loaded between 5,000-13,000lbs. Do I win races with a 13,000lb trailer, no. I still get paid at the end of the day though whether it took me 5 minutes or 7 minutes to get there. My friend in the same biz has owned cummins trucks. Sure they have gobs of power. But I paid $20,000 less for my truck. With the stories (although few) I've heard with the diesels of the past 8 years. No thanks. I need my truck running than having more torque or pulling power.


It is however YOUR choice. And as Senix, a diesel owner, said above gas is probably a better option. Also if you're really in need of a serious tow machine for a huge piece of equipment or hauling capability you get a true dump truck, not a pick up truck or light duty dump.

 

As others have said the 6.8 seems to fit your needs better. From a pure business dollar and cents view the 6.8 should provide you an overall lower operating cost. You may spent more in fuel (although that is questionable when compared to a stock 6.4) but over all your maintenance cost will be lower. Not to mention the "oh my god things went really bad" (i.e. engine replacement or overhaul) cost can be a fraction of the cost with the 6.8 compared to the 6.4. Reliability is bit more of an open subject but the 6.8 has been know to be extremely reliable.

Now put aside the dollars and cents and as this will be your purchase always consider what you want. Some people look at trucks as merely a tool so it has to fit the need and nothing else matters. Some people look as trucks as a love/passion and want is the most important factor. Most people fall in between. You just need to figure out what person you are and of course balance that with a bit of logic and consideration to the almighty pocket book.

 

Get the V10.....

 

I personally say V10 is better for your needs and the 08 is a 3 valve which will be better.
Trav

 

I have a diesel and would not sell it, but if I was to look for a truck right now I would seriously consider gas. Most people I know do not get the mileage with their gas vehicles that is claimed on this site. My 7.3 gets almost 18. Diesel here is 77 cents to $1.00 higher than gas. I get 10 mpg when pulling my 4 horse trailer with living qtrs. I have put the neighbors 2008 v10 and it got 8 to 81/2 when pulling the same trailer. He gets around 13 to 14 empty. When you do the math the gas is more economical. If you are doing a lot of stop and go driving like in plowing then the gas is better according to the diesel mechanics I have talked to. Here gas trucks are about 20 to 25% cheaper when compared to similar diesel, then add in the $2.72 for gas versus $3.74 for diesel-the 2 to 3 miles a gallon is not worth it. I change oil and filters every 5k on my diesel (15 qts, oil filter, fuel filter around $80 with tax)