Re: New dodge power wagon-anyone?

Posted by captaink on July 28, 2005 at 08:08:32 from (66.115.214.56):

In Reply to: New dodge power wagon-anyone? posted by dave from MN on July 27, 2005 at 19:19:03:

I read most of this with interest as I own one of the first Ford 7.3 Powerstrokes made in 1994. Have had a couple issues, but the engine remains solid and the mileage respectable. Overall I have been happy with it. I have a 5-speed manual with 4:10 gears behind the powerstroke.

A couple things I think are important when choosing a pickup/motor combination. First is basic engine design.

The Dodge hemi is simply an engine with a combustion chamber with a hemispherical dome on top of the piston rather than some other shape. The hemi is nothing real fancy, old technology that has been around, tested, and proven to enhance performance and fuel efficiency.

Inline six cylinder engines typically have a longer stroke than a V formation. This generally means more torque (longer lever on the crankshaft) and much better lugging power especially at lower speeds. If you are going to be pulling hills at lower speeds an inline six will handle it better than the same size V formation. However, if you are going to get on the Interstate and try to cruise at 75 or better the V will have more high-end horsepower. Simple physics here, can’t change those laws.

Diesels usually are more fuel efficient than gassers, but right now diesel costs more than gasoline. Right now Dodge has the Cummins and that engine has a long, proven track record for durability and reliability. Ford has had the powerstroke for just over ten years, and Chevy, well...can’t seem to make up their mind.

Personally, I chose to go with the V-8 formation because I wanted a “snappier” engine off the line and more power at higher speeds. Another reason I chose a Ford at the time was because Dodge and Ford were the only ones to offer a full floating rear axle (like the big rigs have) in their ¾ Ton pickups and I liked the Ford’s ride and extended cab better than the Dodge. I have not researched the Duramax engine much, but I HATE, repeat HATE automatic transmissions for pulling and won’t even consider one for my own use.

I suggest that you sit down and figure out what you want to do with the vehicle, and then go buy the one that will get you the closes to your needs. My nickels worth.

Follow Ups:

• Re: New dodge power wagon-anyone? JDknut 13:24:57 07/28/05 (1)
  • Re: New dodge power wagon-anyone? captaink 06:27:26 07/29/05 (0)

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