Would you buy a 6.0L that has not been bullet-proofed?

NorseDave wrote: I'm surprised amongst all this there's been no mention of Dodge / Cummins.

Well there is a concensus on this board that people don't trust ChryCo/FCA products.

I am not one of those. I will say that the '08 and newer Ram is a damn good truck in HD guise. I have a few friends with them and have nothing but good things to say about their trucks (unless you start talking about DPFs and DEF).

HOWEVER, there is an asinine premium on Dodge trucks. It sounds like SVreXs budget was like mine when I was looking for trucks and I can tell you right now, a good Ram with a Cummins won't be in his price range.

In reply to NorseDave:

because for someone that uses the truck haveing to put new front suspension and bushings under it prob 2 or 3 times a year prob kicked it off of the list along with usual Hur Dur it has a Cummins so lets price it 12k more than its worth.

Came across a 03 7.3 4x4 6 speed w 75k on local CL for cheap. Needs work. Theft recovery. Can't find it now. App isn't working right

Gotcha. Didn't realize the Cummins premium was so large, and don't pay attention to newish stuff since I've been super happy with my '01 Cummins.

Except for the rust. Oh the rust...

I was going to suggest looking at GMC trucks with the 6.0 gas motor. I really like mine and as far as I can tell they are very reliable. Big under stressed lumps. Very thirsty but it is just what it is. But I saw your no gas comment so that is off the table.

In reply to dean1484:

I would do gas. I will not do Dodge, even if it was the last truck on the planet. I'd rather walk.

My hesitation with gas is threefold:

• I work my truck. I tow a lot, and need torque.

• I need longevity. I am looking for impeccable reliability over a 10-15 year cycle.

• Fuel consumption/ cost. I drive about 1000 miles per week.

I had an ''01 6.0L, and agree with you- it was a towing beast, pleasurable to drive, and very reliable. The amount of fuel it consumed was ridiculous for a modern vehicle. I know newer ones are a little better. So, it's not off the radar, but not my first choice.

If I compare GM products, I don't think the 6.0 wins.

I can get a clean 6.0L for $12-15K. An equal Duramax will cost me $18-23K. But the Dmax is a 500K engine, can't be beaten for towing, uses less fuel, and gives me a free Allison. At resale time, the Dmax will be worth 2X the 6.0L, even if I drive the Dmax twice as far.

I think the GM motor is the only gas burner I would consider.