So now I need to change my plans a bit.
It seems pretty evident that If I can have a box truck, then I should try and get a diesel, then modify it instead of my dodge to get the best mileage I can.
What do you guys think?
Many, many examples of this on
Pirate4x4.Com - The largest off roading website in the world. in the
Tow Rigs & Trailers subforum where members buy Ford diesel-engined U-Haul box trucks and modify them. My bar none favorite "restoration thread" (which includes aluminum travel trailers, etc) is by
RoosterBooster on
this thread. As a demonstration of skills, it is awesome. The tech discussion accompanying it is just as impressive. While it might not be to your or to their desires
directly what you wish to accomplish (these are 4WD guys looking to take their Jeep & junk out to offroading sites), there is no end of the problems and solutions involved in modifying a cheap old box truck.
Your desire for a higher mpg business vehicle is a tangent. But all the mechanical, electrical, water & gas plumbing issues are covered in any of dozens of threads.
You'll be reading awhile, friend!
.