Cummins diesel question
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2004
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From: NJ where fun comes to die
Cummins diesel question
I was looking for a larger truck than my 350 and I was offered a 99 Freightliner Fl-60, with 80k on it. I was told it had a cummins diesel in it. If it does, how are they? I know nothing about cummins. It was an ambulance of some kind. I imagine a truck that large sucks fuel pretty bad.
I'm not thinking of giving up my Fords. I just need one larger to tow about 12K. I don't think my 350 will do it.
I'm not thinking of giving up my Fords. I just need one larger to tow about 12K. I don't think my 350 will do it.
Last edited by trike1946; Dec 11, 2005 at 06:29 PM.
Hotshot
Joined: Feb 2004
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From: Marengo, Iowa
You could be surprised by the fuel mileage, some of those trucks can run about the same fuel mileage as some of the pickups, it isn't entirely uncommon to get 12 mpg out of some of them with a load on. As far as reliability, most of the Cummins motors do pretty good.
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Joined: Jun 2005
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Cummins diesels are in Dodge trucks
Dodge has been offering a six cylinder Cummins diesel in their trucks for the last 15 years or so. That engine has a good reputation for reliability and for going well over 200K miles before needing an overhaul.
Posting Guru
Joined: May 2005
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From: Walla Walla, Wa
12K? Thats it, your F-350 will handle it, slowly, but it will handle it. I think they are rated at about 12.5K. As for the Cummins, it should be plenty reliable. I have never heard a bad thing about them, but more info on them would be helpful. Such as, what cummins, what tranny. "in edit" I looked them up on the internet, and they all seem to have the 5.9 Cummins that is found in dodges. Its a great motor, and 300K with regular maint is nothing for one of those motors.
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Logistics Pro
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From: NJ where fun comes to die
Isn't the 12.5K with a fifth wheel not a receiver hitch? I have the 7.3 and I like it. But if it is just marginal with the weight, and the trans is an E40D, maybe i should go bigger. I will call and check on the engine and trans and the GVW of the Freightliner. The same company also has a Ford 450 ambulance for sale. But it doesn't look like the springs are any different than my 350.
Last edited by trike1946; Dec 11, 2005 at 08:27 PM.
Fleet Owner
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From: Brentwood,CA
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Logistics Pro
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From: NJ where fun comes to die
Mine is an E series, and it is maxed out as far as payload in the truck. I'll try and get more info on the cummins today.
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Post Fiend
Joined: Jun 2002
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From: Atlanta GA
The engines in the FL-60/80 are fine. Though they are dogs when it comes to cold weather starting. I took care of a lot full of trucks and they gave most of the non-starts in winter where it should not have happened. Maybe two more batteries would have made a difference.
I agree, you might be surprised at the mileage, especially pulling. I would look at least 10 mpg or more. They use practically nothing idling.
I know the FL series is a pretty popular platform for motorhome conversions, must be a reason.
I agree, you might be surprised at the mileage, especially pulling. I would look at least 10 mpg or more. They use practically nothing idling.
I know the FL series is a pretty popular platform for motorhome conversions, must be a reason.