Posted by Neil on January 03, 2000 at 15:01:09:
In Reply to: Diesel, Dodge or Ford? posted by Steve on January 02, 19100 at 06:41:02:
I use a Chevrolet C3500 Crew Cab with the 454 (7.4L) and pull 22,000 lbs. with no problems. I am a ASE master mechanic and have worked on ALL Ford, Dodge, and Chevrolet. with proper maintenance and regular fluid changes, all will get high mileage. Also if you are going to pull a heavy load get a true 1 ton (9000-10,000 GVW). Heavy (8600 GVW)3/4 tons are NOT the same in braking, 3.5" wide brake shoes as compared ro 2.5" wide on 3/4 tons plus larger rotors and dual piston calipers, and frame strength. Be carefull with GVW's as you may have to have a CDL to drive your combination trailer and Pick-up, I know as I got a hefty fine in PA because loaded I was 32,000 lbs. Opps!!! Cost me $1000.00. I now have a CDL.
Also cavitation is NOT a specific Ford problem, Cummins, Cat, Detroit and ALL Diesels with cylinder liners have this problem. Proper coolant monitoring, test kits are available at parts store for this, along with the proper SCA ( Supplemental Coolant Additives) are needed in ALL Diesel engines. Also for all you Cummins guys out there, you can get more power out of your 1998 and later engine by simply changing the computer code for the fuel injection system.