diesels are certainly better for some situations. Like I said, figure out what the honest numbers would be and do some math to see how it works out. Be honest though. If you are driving cross country, don't just use your ideal fuel stop's numbers to make yourself feel better about the decision you've already made.
I was expecting the 7.3 would do better than 11-13 loaded. I got that with Dad's 09 F350 V10 while breaking it in (factory oil in the crank) with a large enclosed trailer weighing that much (and maybe 1000lbs in the bed).
I'll never understand why so many people fear the downshift. Set the cruise and let the truck do what it does while putting less torque into the transmission.
Age is a factor as more and more things need to be maintained. I have all sorts of electrical problems that need fixing in my Excursion. I fear age more than miles in a vehicle myself.
I agree with you that I'd rather spend $500 here and $1000 there than spend $1000 every month like clockwork. I also don't like putting more than a vehicle is worth, into it. When I began to realize the days were numbered on my Avalanche, I was always asking myself "does it make sense to put $100/$300/$500 into this truck?" The last "major" repair was a transfer case shift actuator. I got about 4 months out of it before the frame failed on me. It was worth it to me as the truck managed to outlast the last half of winter and the spring mud season, but that money could have also gone towards a better vehicle. You've got to know when you start throwing good money after bad. Its not always an easy call to make.

 

Bro, this thread was over 4 years old, and you bumped it to add nothing. The OP's question doesn't even address diesel vs gas cost as a determining factor.

Thread no longer relevant for the OP.

Closed.

Stewart