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Old 09-30-2012, 11:50 PM   #8 (permalink)
slowmover
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2004 CTD - '04 DODGE RAM 2500 SLT
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To the OP: Yes, a 1T van is a good choice by your description over a pickup. I do agree that a vehicle better spec'd to your intended and potential uses is a good one based on what you report above.

But the 6.0 motor is notorious for bad service. It was the lawsuit brought by ambulance companies that forced the issue between Ford and Navistar as to who was to blame on this and the successor 6.4 diesel. The 7.3 Powerstroke isn't as great as Ford fans make it out to be, it was simply the single pickup truck diesel in thirty years that Ford got right.

The 1T designation means more than the particular motor as to usefulness. But what I see as "specifications" are all single use purposes where rentals are the better alternative, except the requirement to pull a particular trailer, " . . comfortable 32' tridem 8k-GVWR enclosed race trailer".

I think that a "solution" for this piece of equipment is the way to proceed.And I'd start by how often and how far in use. For TT's it is the nights aboard calculation that from which all other decisions (money) flow. The imaginativeness on trailers is expanding, and I recommend reading over on Pirate4x4.Com - The largest off roading website in the world. in their Towing subforum for ideas (and great DIY if you enjoy that).

The other specs aren't worth the 1T van as a family vehicle, in main. IOW, this would be a rarely well-used vehicle where alternatives exist is a genuine question. That it is a family vehicle is understood, and for recreational purposes. But, at what cost per use (needs to be answered to your satisfaction).

It would help the thread to know what annual miles are expected (as well as the type of miles and distances of trips), and over what period of time of ownership. This approach can bring a potential cpm calc into focus (and whether FE improvements are meaningful).

I'd recommend Orbywan's threads on his Class C motorhome. I might even start there and see if the other "requirements" can be made to work from that platform.

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metromizer (10-08-2012)