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hicksie · 03-15-2015, 07:16 PM

I moved out of a 2000 36' V-10 MH into a 39 1/2 foot FR Crusader 5th wheel dry weight 12,900 lbs, I was tossing around purchasing either an F-250 4WD Diesel or F-250 2WD Lariat 6.2 Gas. After checking the specs of both vehicles several times and then taking a road test in both vehicles I decided on the Gas-job. Our first trip was from Southern ON Canada to gulf Shores AL, Mercedes TX and then on to Tucson.
Although I had a bit of apprehension with my choice at first, being a mechanic and having experience on both gas & diesel trucks, my gut feeling was go for the diesel. I am aware of the extra maintenance cost associated with owning a diesel although it wasn't a deciding factor it was taken into the decision making process.
I have no regrets with my choice to go gas, my Average fuel mileage towing the trailer at 65 - 70 MPH is 8.4 MPG. talking to several people using diesel rigs hauling about the same weight they only get 1 - 2 miles more per gallon.
I was often passing them on the long hills and seldom did my RPM exceed 3000
The engine wasn't struggling and had lots of oomph when needed.

caissiel · 03-15-2015, 09:41 PM

I had a 3600 lbs 2.9 Ranger XLT pulling a 5600 lbs 5th wheel and got barely 11.5 mpg US on freeway driving and 16 on country roads.
Now I have a 7800 lbs turbo diesel truck pulling a 15500 lbs 5th wheel and getting the very same mileage.
The gas truck needed 89 octane or better for clean burn and any power. And to me the fuel cost is about the same.
Both trucks are standard.
My diesel has over 220k kilometers and paid for like the Ranger was, but I still trust it, but the gas I got rid of it at 150k worried about the engine and transmission.
Any old diesel for me is great compared to a new gas. And I buy used and do my repairs. All my diesels have served me well though they were the worst GMs and now the worst Ford.
Used the XLs are a great bargain and the drive train quality stays the same.
This one is my 4th plain Jane out of 5 and now has more added practical optional items that still works well then the loaded previous GM.
Why pay $7000 for a backup camera system while a $69 camera setup in a $200 GPS in dash deck can be installed and still works fine after 8 years. The previous GM CD broke down after playing the 3rd CD. The chrome grill for $100, while keeping the black grill for winter grill cover and plowing snow. No chrome grill will do for this application. Remember Ford builds XLs to last when working hard, and the others are for show.

hicksie · 03-15-2015, 10:27 PM

I am contemplating acquiring another tow vehicle with at least 82" between the back of the cab and axle in order to allow me to take the motorcycle along, if successful this would be a diesel F350 or 450 cab & chassis if I can find a Lariat like ext cab that would be ideal.

09 harley · 10-21-2016, 11:34 PM

An old post but I wanted to update it. I just ordered today a new 2017 Super Duty. I'm excited to say the least. Went with the F250 crew cab long box. XLT with new double sunroof. Added 5th wheel prep just in case. 6.2 gas with 4.30 elocker. Spray in bed liner with tailgate step. Nice to have the 48 gallon gas tank. White with gray 40 console 40 seats. ESOF and several other goodies. Will be a nice Christmas present!