Randy,
No attack coming and I think you have some good points about not wanting a
diesel, but I disagree on some aspects for somebody trying to decide between
gas or diesel. First, if you trade vehicles often, the gas engine is the
way to go (like you said) because of the extra price of the diesel engine.
I will recoup my $4000.00 only after about 80 thousand miles at 18 MPG
instead of 10 or less like you get when towing. Second, with the diesel,
you already have more towing power than you will ever need. Third, if you
get a Ford, or Dodge the resale value of the diesel IS better than the gas
(The old Detroit sucks and everybody knows it). Fourth, Ford is coming out
with the V6 Power Stroke as a option to power the half-ton trucks and SUV's
and most likely will be just as awesome as the PSD V8 in my F-250. Fifth,
diesel fuel is again cheaper than gas unlike last year and the trend will
most likely continue. I pay 1.35 a gallon. Lastly, the new diesels with
electronic everything, start in any weather.
Like you said though, if it's strictly city driving and parking garages with
the occasional camping trip, the gasser is probably the way to go. If one
is serious about towing though, there is no comparison.
Randy
76 Sov
99 PSD
----- Original Message -----
From: Randy Unter <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
To: Multiple recipients of VACList <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Sent: Thursday, May 17, 2001 6:47 PM
Subject: [VAC] Subject: Durango
I likewise have a '99 Durango 5.9 V8, with added K&N Fuel Injection Charger,
which serves as a ram induction tube with large, oil-cotton air filter with
double the air flow as stock. I tow my '66 Overlander with it using a Reese
load equalizing hitch. I towed the Overlander from Denver to Olema, CA and
back last fall without a problem. The K&N boosts horsepower to +270 hp and
helps the bottom-end torque, and when pushed sounds like a Mopar police
interceptor-very quick. Mileage is about the same. The "opened up" Durango
handles even high altitude passes with ease. I chose the loaded Durango
because besides its towing capabilites, I wanted an SUV that could maneuver
Denver's congested parking garages, and provide comfortable trips to the
mountains for skiing and blizzard management. I was a former multi-Suburban
owner and currently also own a Chevy 2500 with the 7.4 monster motor for
horse trailer towing. The Durango is no Suburban, but if you are looking for
a good overall compromise vehicle with 7400# tow capacity, it is tough to
beat. If size is not an issue, go for the Suburban for not much more, if
anything. Unless one drives mucho miles per year, forget the diesels. Do the
return on investment your self. Diesels usually command a +$4000 premium
over a gas engine without the corresponding resale later. One has to drive
alot to make up the difference, plus deal with finding fuel when you most
need it. Add to that winter starting/running woes in cold country. My gas
engines fire up at -20 below. Most diesels don't without a lot of attention.
OK diesel fans. Attack!
Randy Unter
'66 Overlander
Denver
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