Best domestic full-size diesel truck?

[pskhaat]

I don't know who it was, but I was running around the lake where we are right now and saw this BADASS 4 door Chevy Silverado go by (nice and slow due to the traffic). Now, me saying that is heavy, because this thing was totally tricked for an expedition, and I am not a fan of many domestic models.

It had a mild lift (3-4"), and looked perfectly done (the rear end wasn't dragging) like a SCORE wanna-be, had a slight rake. It had probably 35" tires, but they looked skinny. I could have sworn it was ARB on the front w/front winch, but obviously a custom ARB-look-alike job. I can't believe how nice it looked without the fairing of a front bumper and a high-approach-angle bar.

It had two spare tires positioned longitudinally (sp?) on either side of the headache rack which was integrated into a full cage if you will that extended the roofline all the way atop the bed. Custom rear bumper with rear winch fairlead and hook (gotta assume a rear winch) and build in ladder to get to the top of the cage. Bending down to look at the rear wich I saw a rear fuel tank angled up from the axle to the rear bumper. All of the accessories (like high-lift, shovel & axe, etc) were cleanly mounted.

I've never seen a full-sized truck I wanted more. Again the thing was amazing. Oh yeah, and of course diesel. Aren't the Silverado's 4 wheel steering too?

This got me really thinking of a full-size expedition TRUCK like that. If you built one, what make would you choose and why? Personally, I'd like to do the same get'up on a 4 door 2500 Cummins'd Dodge avec the 6spd manual. Ford 250/350s have PTO option. So much cool stuff.

[Scott Brady]

I really like the Super-Duty. ARB bumper and some 255/85's with a fourwheel camper :)

[asteffes]

GMC 2500HD with Duramax diesel and Allison transmission. Not as huge or ugly as a Super Duty (sorry, Scott. :) ) but also unstoppable and very reliable.

[slooowr6]

This is a bad thread. :ar15:
Just got my taco but couple days ago, I heard a 2500HD drove by the turbo diesel sounds so nice. From what I head it's pretty normal for 2500HD diesel to get 20mpg on freeway. The diesel engine will last a LLLOOOONNNGGG time. Ok now I need to stay away from this thread........

[TRXRacing]

Cummins Dodge and 6-speed.

[goodtimes]

Cummins Dodge and 6-speed.

Yup. To bad they switched transmissions in 2007...people aren't real happy with them....6th gear is significantly lower than the previous trans. At 75mph, the B series Cummins needs to do little more than an idle....gearing to low is easy to do with them. Hell, even my 3.73's were to low (47RE trans and 305/70R16 tires).

[flyingwil]

Toyota Tundra... That is my vote. Can you really define Domestic anymore?

[Rockcrawler]

Cummins Dodge and 6-speed.


Ditto... SFA and best engine. I'll finish building my expedition vehicle sometime. :)

[Kermit]

Funny, I was just getting ready to ask the same question.

I am seriously thinking of getting a fullsize. I will keep my Tacoma (it's paid for) and "give" it to my girlfriend.

...and since Toyota doesn't have a fullsize diesel yet (damn!)

So which is the better one?

I am thinking manual transmisson, either crew cab short box, or extra cab long box with a 4-Wheel camper. It will be used for yanking a trailer full of race bikes, and the occasional offroad trip.

The only lift I have seen for the Chevys is a drop IFS...which I would see as a weak point.

More opinions please.

[goodtimes]

The steering system on the chevy's really leaves alot to be desired (look at the tie rod ends sometime.....). I also prefer the inline engines....and you won't find them under the hood of a ford or chevy. The B series Cummins is to the diesel world what the small block chevy was to the gasser world. But honestly, right now I would wait a couple of years and see what the new diesel fuel brings in. I suspect we will be seeing a good number of new diesel offerings....

But it would be hard to go wrong with a dodge and a 4 wheel pop up.:punk03:

[CLynn85]

My dad has a 2004 Ford F250 and he absolutely loves it. It's a nice riding truck for an HD and comfortably seats 6 if the occasion calls for it. We only use it for home improvement trips, towing our pontoon boat, or a car trailer here and there.

His company on the other hand only runs Chevy/GMC trucks, and they've had nothing but problems with the new Duramax diesels. One of the trucks has had problems running hot since day one, especially when towing (big requirement for the job). Two of the others have had injection problems multiple times.

The Ford SD's are still my favorite, if I ever have the need for a full size tow rig that is...

[calamaridog]

My boss has replaced the transmission twice and the torque converter and transmission cooler once on his 2002 F350. 85k miles on truck. His trailer he is towing is only around 10,000 lbs.

His neighbor has a newer model with the 6.0 Powerstroke and has replaced the engine once and the transmission once and he has less than 75k miles. He is towing a slightly heavier trailer.

Frankly, I'd try the Dodge myself.

[Kermit]

GoodTimes,

Could you direct me to the new diesel? What are they changing about it? I know as of right now, the USA has some of the dirtiest diesels out there...is that right?

The new 2007 PowerWagons aren't too bad looking either. Almost ashame to put a boxy 4WheelCamper on there.

I know very little about diesel other than it smells funny...and the engines make gobs of torque.

I rented a Bobcat mini excavator last year, I was amazed how much power that machine had now, over the ones I ran 15 years ago.

http://www.bobcat.com/publicadmin/getImage.do?id=15229&width=400

[goodtimes]

GoodTimes,

Could you direct me to the new diesel? What are they changing about it? I know as of right now, the USA has some of the dirtiest diesels out there...is that right?

To clarify, I was referring to the new EPA standards on diesel fuel sulfur content. We (the USA) are now on the same standard as the rest of the world (<15ppm sulfur). From what I understand, this has been the biggest reason some manufacturers have not imported many diesels....the lack of ultra-low sulfur fuel for them. Now that the playing field is level with regards to fuel, I suspect we will start to see some cool stuff.

As a bonus for moto riders....the new blend doesn't stink nearly as bad, so when you are behind a diesel (waiting for traffic to clear so you can pass them....), you stand a better chance of not choking and puking inside your helmet while sucking their exhaust.

[Bella PSD]

I hope this tread does not get ugly!!

I went with the Ford. Back in 02, Dodge did not have a crew cab and well it was a Dodge.... I have owned one to many K cars to go back to Dodge. Chevy has IFS....NO THANKS!!!

So Ford CC with solid axles it was. The only question was the Internaional 444 engine. I liked the Cummins but just did not want that Dodge. After 5 years with the IH I could not be any more pleased!! You should here that turbo spool up and then shift the 6 speed tranny and then it spools again....:hehe: My exhaust exits out in front of the rear tire so you can really hear it good!

Many claim the Cummins better than IH BUT that just does not hold up with me. They BOTH get the same life out of them, "average" about 350,000 before overhaul(most go many miles more). Both can be tuned to about 400 HP and get 17-20 MPG for the same money. Now if you want 1000 HP, then the Cummins is your way to go. But for 99.9% of the people out buying trucks you can NOT go wrong with any of the domistic diesels(GM/Isuzu, Dodge/Cummins, Ford/International) I like all 3 diesels. It comes down to the trucks they are in. For me its Ford SD then Dodge then Chevy. I only put Chevy last because of the IFS.

Louie:REOutCampFire03:

[calamaridog]

Louie,

I think the Superduty is the best overall package, but I would never own the 6.0 Powerstroke. Every single person I know who has one has been plagued with engine problems, whereas the 7.3 you have is a good motor.

And I'd prefer the solid axle too, so I'd go with the Dodge if I was buying a brand new truck right now.

It's too bad you can't buy a perfect truck. Every one will have a weak link of some sort.

[Bella PSD]

The "perfect" truck would be a Ford SD with a Cummins and a 6 speed. I would not have a 6.0L myself. But I do know lots of people without one problem with thier 6.0L. I think the 2nd best truck is a Ford SD with a 7.3L!!

The 6.4L Maxxforce IH twin turbo should be a good motor!!;) (I hope)

Louie

[viter]

I don't know who it was, but I was running around the lake where we are right now and saw this BADASS 4 door Chevy Silverado go by (nice and slow due to the traffic)...

I could have sworn it was ARB on the front w/front winch, but obviously a custom ARB-look-alike job.

somewhat off topic but...
arb makes bumpers for chevys too now -
http://arbusa.com/chevy/chevy.jpg
http://arbusa.com/chevy/Silverado.jpg
I wonder if you can get a chevy in australia, I didn't think so...

[OutbacKamper]

I wonder if you can get a chevy in australia, I didn't think so...

Yep, Dodge too. They are imported and converted to Left Hand Drive. Cost for a new converted deisel, crew cab, short box, 4x4 is about $95-105K AUD. Oh, and it takes about 6 months and $20,000 for the conversion.

There are a lot of Ford Super Duties, because until Jan you could buy one at your local Ford Dealer. Chevy and Dodge are not as common, but they are there. Quite a few Suburbans too (they were sold as Holdens for several years)

Cheers
Mark

[pskhaat]

http://arbusa.com/chevy/Silverado.jpg

Yeah, that about looks like the thing I saw. Interesting!

[Haggis]

For what it's worth here's my thoughts.
Last summer I checked into gettin' a new truck and since I'm an old school straight axle guy that left only the Superduty and the Hd Dodges. Then I saw the sticker prices on these rigs and realized that a truck, the price of a modest house, that was going to lose it's value to about half of what you paid for it in five years time didn't make alot of since to me.
We have an '89 Dodge cummins and with almost 500,000 miles on it it still runs stong, though there is not a staight panel on it after all these years. I think for guys itchin' for a diesel but don't need it for work or serious towing there are alot of older early 90's Ford and Dodges diesels that make great rigs and can now be had for a good price since alot of diesel guys gravitate to the latest and greatest mantra. Used Trucks; Diesel Power without soul gripping payments.
Around Here Fords and Dodges are equally popular with the guys that use the trucks hard for work, Oil and Gas drillers and Loggers. Chevy Diesel you don't see much in a back woods work site, but are popular with for trailer haulers, and Farmers.
I belong to a couple of local offraod "clubs" here, and while the Superduty and Cummins boys like to play in the mud, you don't see to many late model Chevys, unless they are parked at a truck show.
Oh, this too. Diesel drag racing is very popular here, and Chevys seem to come out on top more than not. Ok that probably has little intrest in this forum but black smoke on a dragstrip is cool.

[4Rescue]

The ISB Cummins trumps the Isuzu Duramax in every way except a mild bit of power but it doesn't feel any less strong. The New 6.7 will trump them all. 6.0 Superduty's are fun trucks, but the reliability is really poor. As for Chevy, I thionk they're pretty boring rides with about the poorest interior fit and finish around not to mention the number of TSB's issued (second only to Ford for SD's head studs and gaskets). The Allison is nice, but the New Asin in the Dodges will be more than a match when you factor in the low cost availability of a factory exhaust brake and Tow haul features nearly identical to the Allisson. As for looks, Ford wins IMO, but Dodges look great with armor too. Chevy, again, just a plain jane looking rig (wich can be good sometimes too).

If I had my dream Fully/Camping/Tow rig, I'd get a Mega Cab std bed Cummins HO equiped 6sp manual Dodge no questions asked.

I drive an 05 Superduty for work and I really like the size of the rear seats and the utiliuty of the thing, but as hot rod as the motor is, alot of little things are gong tits up on it after not alot of miles (like 30k). It looks great espescialy on teh 35in MT-KMs and the Manual is nice since it in typical Ford Fashion has a granny first (awsome if you've got a load or a big trailer on) but it's ALOT clunkier than say my uncles manual Dodge.

I've only driven an Auto Shiv, and since I really dislike the disconected feel of slush boxes, it really didn't appeal to me. The motor is powerful enough, but it doesn't feel like the snorty grunty diesel's in either the Ford or Dodge, and I'm a realy sucker for a Cummins with a straight pipe, they sound like dump trucks/big pieces fo heavy machinery. Not to mention the Dodge with a Manual feels like it's a 5 ton ferrari when you get on it, same with the Ford they're fun too.

Cheers

Dave

[Rhode Trip]

http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i261/rhodetrip/earthroamer/DSC01321.jpg
Cummins 5.9L

[Kermit]

I would say my only gripe about diesels is that damn smell....

I grew up in a construction family, and you guessed it worked for the family business for a number of years. So everytime in traffic I smell that god awful odor it reminds me of sitting on that damn machine in the blaring sun or the freezing cold,...getting that ground in grease in my hands that never seems to come clean. You get the picture....I hate that damn smell! That would be the one reason I wouldn't buy a diesel.....and oh yeah the $50K+ price tag!

On other hand my dirt bike buddy is running Bio-diesel in his Excursion....now the smell of something like castor beans burning is a beautiful thing!

[Ron B]

here's an interesting "pull-off" -- cumminings vrs power-stroke

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=onYGv6jRHiY&NR

rb

[Bella PSD]

Rob,

All those "pull off" or "tug of war" stunts prove is who ever has their traction goes first gets pulled. Not anything to do with real power and torque.

I say get a used truck as was stated above. An older Dodge or a Ford with the reliabile 7.3L would be best!! Get a 6 speed too, if you can find one!

I got the X plan back in 02 and out the door, fully loaded (6 speed) tax and all was $35,000. 0% loan for 36 months and no money down too!! After 5 plus years it “could” cost me about $2000 a year “if I was to sell it today” for $24,000 (I could get more!!)

I think when it comes to buying a new, expensive, diesel pick up truck (35-45K plus) you need to thing long term. I am keeping mine for a loooong time. I promised my wife I would keep it 15 years the day we ordered it. Less than 10 to go!!

Louie

[slooowr6]

Bella PSD,
What kind of mpg do you get with you PSD?

[Bella PSD]

The T 444E Diesel gets about 16.5 MPG on winter blend diesel fuel and about 18 MPG in the Spring, Summer and Fall. When the truck was new I could get 20-21 MPG on the highway. Problem is the truck has grown to about 7900 LBS empty. A 5” lift, 35” tires on 16x10 rims, plus the 6” high roof rack with 35” spare tire up top does not help!!

The 16.5 MPG on winter blend and 18 MPG on summer diesel fuel are “average MPG”. (Driving both city and highway 50/50) I can get into the 19-19.5 MPG area if I baby it on the highway (stay under/at 2000 RPM at about 65 mph). The last trip I took to the North Carolina running about 75 mph and about 9000 lbs I got round trip 17.78 MPG.
If I would have dropped to 65 mph I am sure I would have been at 18.2-18.5 MPG.

I have tracked every gallon of diesel fuel ever run through the truck. I keep a logbook and top off to the fuel neck every time. So the numbers posted are real world and not guessing.

Louie

[pskhaat]

Funny!

[slooowr6]

Wow, 9000lbs, 65mph, ~18mpg. :drool:
Diesel definetly has it's charm. If the low sulfur diesel can sovled the "smell" problem with diesel, I'll get one in 10 years, I just got the Taco.:ylsmoke:

[Bella PSD]

:(
Wow, 9000lbs, 65mph, ~18mpg. :drool:
Diesel definetly has it's charm. If the low sulfur diesel can sovled the "smell" problem with diesel, I'll get one in 10 years, I just got the Taco.:ylsmoke:

I never smell it....unless I back up real fast with the windows down!:smiley_drive: In 10 years I HOPE Toyota has a diesel in the USA!!! maybe 09. When I got the Ford, I was close to getting a Taco double cab with the supercharger added....But could not get it in a 5 speed:(

[charlieaarons]

My favorite "domestic" (sold by Freightliner) diesel "pickup": my Unimog U500.
Portal solid axles, diff locks, hydraulics, two low ranges (5.77 and 55.7), central tire inflation, electroautomatic 8 spd, 6.4L inline 6 with 700 ft-lb (without the problems of the recent Powerstrokes), 33,000 lb GVW. It gets 8.7 mpg at 60 mph with a 7.5X16' Unicat camper on the back, total gvw 24-25K. What would a diesel pickup do towing a big 5th wheel trailer, or with a giant Lance camper?
I love the diesel smell. My first diesel was a FJ40 converted to Perkins 4.236 in 1973. My daily driver is a BJ40.

Charlie

[Sleeping Dog]

Stick a Cummins in a Superduty with an Allison tranny:jump:

[OutbacKamper]

Stick a Cummins in a Superduty with an Allison tranny

:iagree: Now that would be the "Best domestic full-size diesel" possible. You can get a Ford with the Cummins engine right now from your local Ford dealer, the catch is they only put them in the biggest F series trucks (F650 and F750 I think?) I have seen several cummins transplants into F350's on other forums. I also remember seeing a Ford Bronco with a Cat diesel in a 4x4 magazine many years ago.

For everyone lusting after a new diesel Jeep Rubicon or Toyota Tundra when they become available, here is something to think about: One major problem with any new diesel vehicle is that the ultra low sulphur diesel fuel they require is not available in many places that you may want to go on expeditions, such as most of Mexico and all of South America for example.


Cheers
Mark

[805gregg]

Currently own 2 3500 Dodges with Cummins diesels, and 1 Ford 350 with 6.9 diesel, it's hard and expensive to keep the Ford running, constantly going through glow plugs and other problems. I've had 9 dodge trucks none have ever broken. My last Dodge a 2000 (sold to a friend) has 190,000 miles no problems.Fords don't hold up, 1 friend put in 3 transmissions and a turbo for a total of $12,000 in 80,000 miles, another put in 3 trans. in 45,000 miles.I'll stick with Dodge and Cummins.

[zimm]

Currently own 2 3500 Dodges with Cummins diesels, and 1 Ford 350 with 6.9 diesel, it's hard and expensive to keep the Ford running, constantly going through glow plugs and other problems. I've had 9 dodge trucks none have ever broken. My last Dodge a 2000 (sold to a friend) has 190,000 miles no problems.Fords don't hold up, 1 friend put in 3 transmissions and a turbo for a total of $12,000 in 80,000 miles, another put in 3 trans. in 45,000 miles.I'll stick with Dodge and Cummins.

what year is the 6.9 ford?

[zimm]

Wow, 9000lbs, 65mph, ~18mpg. :drool:
Diesel definetly has it's charm. If the low sulfur diesel can sovled the "smell" problem with diesel, I'll get one in 10 years, I just got the Taco.:ylsmoke:

gee. my stock lx470 is getting 12mpg, for eggs and milk at the store

[Rhode Trip]

Ditto. My 2002 Dodge Cummins drw with a full size camper gets better mileage than my '97 LX450.

[jgolden]

My favorite "domestic" (sold by Freightliner) diesel "pickup": my Unimog U500.
Portal solid axles, diff locks, hydraulics, two low ranges (5.77 and 55.7), central tire inflation, electroautomatic 8 spd, 6.4L inline 6 with 700 ft-lb (without the problems of the recent Powerstrokes), 33,000 lb GVW. It gets 8.7 mpg at 60 mph with a 7.5X16' Unicat camper on the back, total gvw 24-25K. What would a diesel pickup do towing a big 5th wheel trailer, or with a giant Lance camper?
I love the diesel smell. My first diesel was a FJ40 converted to Perkins 4.236 in 1973. My daily driver is a BJ40.

Charlie


Can you post photos of your rig?

[parallax_ca]

is there an opinion (of course there is!!) on the differences between the f350 single rear wheel and f450/f550
thinking of putting a provan tiger on the back to make a pseudo earth raomer at 1/3 cost
what do you gain when you move up into that level of truck (and lose too)
i think you ge manual 4wd shifting (vs electronic, this would be better right?)
is it shift on the fly or not?
beefier frame, and dually (but looks like you can remove one rim with the right rims and spacers as per earthroamer, right??)
does mileage drop severely?? (my 03 f250 dsl crew cab short box diesel 4wd is in the mid 20s (imperial))

i woudl consdier the gm line but still concerned aobut the long term costs of injectros at 1k a pop (vs 80pop in the fords) and the dodge crew cab is more of an extended cab with forward doors and love the mega cab but need a long box for the provan so no cummins in sight)

any thoughts, comments, please reply to me at
parallax@vianet.on.ca
as well as i am on dialup
thanks
gord in ontario canada

[charlieaarons]

You can see my U500/Unicat at www.unicatamericas.com
Go to "Vehicles" "Amerigo". Go down to the blue Unimog and click once on it, then again. After the written specs (mine has some things the specs don't say) you can click for more pictures.
Going to Baja and then back to Alaska (from Calif.) next week.

Charlie

[jgolden]

I just purchased a 2001 f-450 4x4. Some differences from the f-350 are...
19.5 wheels
dually
bigger brakes
geared lower
I'm pretty sure it has bigger brakes, axles, drivetrian, etc. anyone know???
obviously a larger payload and towing capacity

I've been looking arond at converting it to SRW, but I'm not sold on anything yet. Anyone have suggestions?




is there an opinion (of course there is!!) on the differences between the f350 single rear wheel and f450/f550
thinking of putting a provan tiger on the back to make a pseudo earth raomer at 1/3 cost
what do you gain when you move up into that level of truck (and lose too)
i think you ge manual 4wd shifting (vs electronic, this would be better right?)
is it shift on the fly or not?
beefier frame, and dually (but looks like you can remove one rim with the right rims and spacers as per earthroamer, right??)
does mileage drop severely?? (my 03 f250 dsl crew cab short box diesel 4wd is in the mid 20s (imperial))

i woudl consdier the gm line but still concerned aobut the long term costs of injectros at 1k a pop (vs 80pop in the fords) and the dodge crew cab is more of an extended cab with forward doors and love the mega cab but need a long box for the provan so no cummins in sight)

any thoughts, comments, please reply to me at
parallax@vianet.on.ca
as well as i am on dialup
thanks
gord in ontario canada

[jgolden]

Nice!!!



You can see my U500/Unicat at www.unicatamericas.com
Go to "Vehicles" "Amerigo". Go down to the blue Unimog and click once on it, then again. After the written specs (mine has some things the specs don't say) you can click for more pictures.
Going to Baja and then back to Alaska (from Calif.) next week.

Charlie

[Rhode Trip]

thinking of putting a provan tiger on the back to make a pseudo earth raomer at 1/3 cost
gord in ontario canada
You're going to need to be concerned with chassis flex with the Provan setup, especially with a long bed. The Earthroamer is based on a truck camper design, so there is more allowance for flex with the cabin separate from the cab.

[parallax_ca]

well to be honest, i don;t expect to do SERIOUS offroading
how "attached" is the tiger to the cab >> looks like it is just "sitting" on it but the net literature does mention ridged connection cab to coach mounting


the earthroamer DOES ave a gap over the cab

both have a walk through, so there is SOME connection, but i guess the ER allows it to "swing" a bit since 3 point mount

i am considering buying a used tiger and flipping the coach onto another chassis so i "could" emulate the 3 point (2 fixed at front, 1 pivot at back) of the ER (a chap on supercamper.com did this on a toyota, but no walk thru)

as i am in canada, i cannot buy one completed in any case (there is a federal registration system for vehicles 15 yrs and newer that lists who is admissable and who is not, and neither Provan nor Earthroamer is on the list). However, i can take my Canadian spec truck to them and have it modified no issues, what a system!

thanks for the replies, not meaning to hijack the thread since it is about trucsk not the coach on the back >> you can email me direct if you want

thanks for any and all replies as i AM new to the "expedition" rv scene (never was a A,B or C class type of RVer >> you go somewhere to get OUTSIDE your RV not to stay in it like a hotel room

Gord

[jgolden]

Do you have any photos of a "Tiger"?

jg

[Rhode Trip]

well to be honest, i don;t expect to do SERIOUS offroading
how "attached" is the tiger to the cab >> looks like it is just "sitting" on it but the net literature does mention ridged connection cab to coach mounting


the earthroamer DOES ave a gap over the cab

both have a walk through, so there is SOME connection, but i guess the ER allows it to "swing" a bit since 3 point mount

i am considering buying a used tiger and flipping the coach onto another chassis so i "could" emulate the 3 point (2 fixed at front, 1 pivot at back) of the ER (a chap on supercamper.com did this on a toyota, but no walk thru)

as i am in canada, i cannot buy one completed in any case (there is a federal registration system for vehicles 15 yrs and newer that lists who is admissable and who is not, and neither Provan nor Earthroamer is on the list). However, i can take my Canadian spec truck to them and have it modified no issues, what a system!

thanks for the replies, not meaning to hijack the thread since it is about trucsk not the coach on the back >> you can email me direct if you want

thanks for any and all replies as i AM new to the "expedition" rv scene (never was a A,B or C class type of RVer >> you go somewhere to get OUTSIDE your RV not to stay in it like a hotel room

Gord

Hi Gord,
I actually have looked into this a little bit. I was never an Rver either, and then I came across the ER and thought I'd like a cushy base camp like that! I'm cheap, though, so I started looking into options. The Earthroamer doesn't have a "walkthrough" connection, more of a climb-through. It has a flexible rubber bellows to allow for movement between the cab and the cabin. The Provan is rigid ( I think ridged is a typo) there's no allowance for flex with that design.
Even with my set-up there is a surprising amount of movement between the truck cab and the camper, and with a long bed dually, I don't do any serious offroading. But even with the beach and forest road travel that I do, there are numerous instances where you need that flexibility. I think Doug Harkney has some photos of a Bigfoot class c to illustrate the problem of a hard mounted cabin. I think thats why the design of the supercamper doesn't have a cab connection either, or that just a plain pickup bed is separately mounted from the cab.

[parallax_ca]

thanks for the reply sorry no spell checker in this reply box (sorry)
anyway >> I think you are right >> that MAY be my big thing >> the tiger is a "climb through" as well (I think any truck one would be since unlike a van, you cannot stand up at all really)
we have done the camper in pickup bed thing >> don't even go there!! so as you said, I would like to go the "inexpensive" (cheap can cost! <smile>) route too since 200k for a hotel room is expensive
so... can I see your setup ? (or is that too personal? <smile>)
and what can I do

thanks
Gord

p.s. in reply to the other message>> www.tigermotorhomes.com has specs, pricing and pix

[Rhode Trip]

we have done the camper in pickup bed thing >> don't even go there!!
so... can I see your setup ?

thanks
Gord



Hate to disappoint you, Gord.
You can scroll back through this thread (page 3), or you can see more here:

http://expeditionportal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=4865&page=2

[mexpat]

I'm looking to build an expedition truck and have pretty much settled on the Cummins. I like the size and the reliability of the engine. (We need something that'll take 3 car seats in the back seat) We're living in Mexico and want to do some camping in some of the ghost towns and areas off the beaten path. I'll be looking to head to Texas this summer in pursuit of a 2001 - 2003 vintage Ram with around 75K miles.

Anyone know about any specific reliability issue or design weaknesses associated with this truck? I've heard that braking is diseastrous on the mid to late 90's models and that an exhaust brake is a must. Was wondering if the newer ones stop a little better.

Since I don't have a truck to work on now, I did a mock up of what I'll be looking to do.

-Slight lift up front, Kore Performance
-Camping trailer and room for 5
-Various Interior Upgrades (DVD for Kids, GPS, etc.)
-Engine breathing enhancements (intake and exhaust)

7653



Dave M.

[Rockcrawler]

I would suggest the 03 and up. The stock power is more than adequate for what you're looking for and the brakes/steering are vastly improved over the 2nd gen versions. Transmission options are both pretty stout, NV5600 for the manual and 48re for the auto. If you do decide to up the power, you will probably want to build up the auto a little or go with an aftermarket clutch for the NV5600.

For suspension options you may also wish to look at www.thecarlisuspension.com and www.lorenzindustries.com. They are both good quality/comparable options at a cheaper price and from what I've seen and heard on TDR (www.turbodieselregister.com), Carli and Lorenz have superior customer service to Kore.

Kyle

[mexpat]

Rockcrawler,

How do you like your '04? Have you made many changes, or what are your plans?

Thanks

[TEETS]

I am biased because I have a cummins but I also like the older fords. I bought my 04.5 cummins for a very resonable price(almost half original) and have been very pleased with it so far. I currently have the arb front bumper on it and on order a lorenz suspension system with 37s ready to go on it. I have the 48re auto trans and do tow with it and it is a solid tranny so far. I have had no problems and really love the rig.

[Rhode Trip]

Dave, that picture is a riot. You must be an artist.
I have a 2002 Dodge Cummins 3500 that I bought used with about 42,000 miles on it. Great truck. The thing to watch with the 2nd Gen trucks is the fuel pressure...the lift pumps go bad and burn out the VP-44. My 48re trans and brakes have been flawless, and I carry a 2300lb camper. I installed a full set of gauges in a custom console to keep an eye on things.
http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i261/rhodetrip/DSC02423.jpg

[Rockcrawler]

Rockcrawler,

How do you like your '04? Have you made many changes, or what are your plans?

Thanks


I love my 04. It is the best truck I have ever owned. Only mods so far are EGT, Fuel Pressure and Boost Gauges, Roll and lock cover, BFG AT 315 70 17 tires, and a Parrot Bluetooth mobile phone system. Soon to have a removable custom rack on the back for the Rooftop tent and Lorenz 5100 system with the 6% over stock front coils and the Dual Purpose Leaf Springs.

Kyle

[mexpat]

Thanks everyone for the great input. Sounds like '03 - '06 is best, and Lorenz seems to be the best option for a lift. Would love to see more pix of your Rams.

Dave M.

[TEETS]

My ram is a few threads down with the arb on it as soon as I get the lift in and on ill post some more pics.

[Baja_Mike]

I am biased because I have a cummins but I also like the older fords. I bought my 04.5 cummins for a very resonable price(almost half original) and have been very pleased with it so far. I currently have the arb front bumper on it and on order a lorenz suspension system with 37s ready to go on it. I have the 48re auto trans and do tow with it and it is a solid tranny so far. I have had no problems and really love the rig.

Teets, I see that you are planning on running 37" tires. Are you going to run fiberglass fenders? If not you will need after market control arms if you don't want to crunch your fenders with the tires. I run the Carli system with the Carli control arms with stock fenders and 37" Toyos. No rubbing. :friday:

http://www.thecarlisuspension.com/uploads/files1/DSC00056.JPG

[805gregg]

what year is the 6.9 ford?

Sorry for the delay it's a '86 and of course currently not running.

[TEETS]

Teets, I see that you are planning on running 37" tires. Are you going to run fiberglass fenders? If not you will need after market control arms if you don't want to crunch your fenders with the tires. I run the Carli system with the Carli control arms with stock fenders and 37" Toyos. No rubbing. :friday:

http://www.thecarlisuspension.com/uploads/files1/DSC00056.JPG




Your truck looks great Mike. I am not going to run new control arms or fiberglass fenders this is what sean lorenz sent me to tell me how to run 37's "37’s hit at full turn. They hit right at the lower back side of the wheel well. There is a pinch seam that needs to be bent back and a small adjustment to the fender itself. The fenders are bolted on. The adjustment consists of loosening the bolts, and nudging the fender all the way out, and then retightening the bolts. It moves the fender over less than a ¼”."

[Baja_Mike]

Your truck looks great Mike. I am not going to run new control arms or fiberglass fenders this is what sean lorenz sent me to tell me how to run 37's "37’s hit at full turn. They hit right at the lower back side of the wheel well. There is a pinch seam that needs to be bent back and a small adjustment to the fender itself. The fenders are bolted on. The adjustment consists of loosening the bolts, and nudging the fender all the way out, and then retightening the bolts. It moves the fender over less than a ¼”."

:confused: Um........doesn't that take your fender out of adjustment (the gap would be way off wouldn't it?)? Also the fender liner covers that pinch weld. Does that mean you take out the fender liner? Or do you let it still sit there and get caught by the tire? I'm not quite sure I agree with this method. My control arms are 1/2" longer than stock and they're still really close. But I wish you the best of luck if you are going this route. :1888fbbd:

[dieselcruiserhead]

Interesting read.. Charlie Aarons, old school from PBB and other sites.. A slew of cool trucks, nice to see you hangin around here.. Andre

[TEETS]

:confused: Um........doesn't that take your fender out of adjustment (the gap would be way off wouldn't it?)? Also the fender liner covers that pinch weld. Does that mean you take out the fender liner? Or do you let it still sit there and get caught by the tire? I'm not quite sure I agree with this method. My control arms are 1/2" longer than stock and they're still really close. But I wish you the best of luck if you are going this route. :1888fbbd:


I am going to try the method I said and if it looks bad or still rubs I will get control arms or fenders. I thought I would try this cheaper way first because I talked to the guys a lorenz they said you cant even tell anything is done to the fender and they do it to a lot of trucks that do not want the new fenders.

[Baja_Mike]

I am going to try the method I said and if it looks bad or still rubs I will get control arms or fenders. I thought I would try this cheaper way first because I talked to the guys a lorenz they said you cant even tell anything is done to the fender and they do it to a lot of trucks that do not want the new fenders.

Do they have anything for the rear? The 37's will rub the rear fender as well. I hope they informed you about this as well. The Carli rear leaf springs move the axle back a little bit to address this issue.:jumping:

[Gold Boy]

:bump: :truck:

any updates/opinions please

:wavey:

[4Rescue]

Dodge... Nothing beats the Cummins and they look the best. Plus there's the new tranny with an exhaust brake to boot.

I personaly think the ruined the new Superduty's. I hate all the bling and the new bumpers.
Cheers

Dave

[Gold Boy]

Dodge... Nothing beats the Cummins and they look the best. Plus there's the new tranny with an exhaust brake to boot.

I personaly think the ruined the new Superduty's. I hate all the bling and the new bumpers.
Cheers

Dave

x2

i must admit, i'm digging that new dodge cummins 6.7 truck. i think the truck has much potential for an off road reliable expedition vehicle.

:safari-rig: