I've started to keep an eye out for diesel tow rig, and could use some opinions to help focus the search. I wouldn't be using the truck all that often, something to tow a cruiser to events on a car hauler, haul construction materials from time to time and serve as a back-up work truck if it's 4x4.
I'm thinking either a 12 valve Cummins or a 7.3 PowerStroke.
On the Cummins side is the 94-98 the best bet? They are one-wire mechanical, correct? The P-7100 inline IP is considered a step up from the VE rotary? I had my eye on a 99 24 valve for sale, but reading up about the Brazil cast "53" blocks kind of turned me off, and I understand the VP44 pumps are prone to crapping out.
On the Ford side, I'm not as sure if there is a "best" vintage. Is the 93/94 turboed IDI a good engine? It was still mechanically controlled? Does the HEUI system make the PowerStrokes any less dependable? Is the lack of an intercooler on the 94-98 PS an issue if you aren't hauling huge loads?
Auto vs. manual?
Dually vs. not?
Rear hitch vs. gooseneck/5th wheel?
Any reason an Excursion or heavy van wouldn't be as good as a pickup (other than the obvious lack of box and ruling out a gooseneck/5th wheel).
Thanks for any thoughts.
Curtis.
I'm thinking either a 12 valve Cummins or a 7.3 PowerStroke.
On the Cummins side is the 94-98 the best bet? They are one-wire mechanical, correct? The P-7100 inline IP is considered a step up from the VE rotary? I had my eye on a 99 24 valve for sale, but reading up about the Brazil cast "53" blocks kind of turned me off, and I understand the VP44 pumps are prone to crapping out.
On the Ford side, I'm not as sure if there is a "best" vintage. Is the 93/94 turboed IDI a good engine? It was still mechanically controlled? Does the HEUI system make the PowerStrokes any less dependable? Is the lack of an intercooler on the 94-98 PS an issue if you aren't hauling huge loads?
Auto vs. manual?
Dually vs. not?
Rear hitch vs. gooseneck/5th wheel?
Any reason an Excursion or heavy van wouldn't be as good as a pickup (other than the obvious lack of box and ruling out a gooseneck/5th wheel).
Thanks for any thoughts.
Curtis.