To the original poster: A 3/4 or 1 ton gasser should fit the bill nicely. Won't be as fuel efficient as a half ton, won't have the torque of a diesel. But do your homework, as some 3/4 tons don't offer a lot more payload capacity then a heavy half. A diesel is nice if you can find one, but cost of repair and ownership is considerably higher - personally I wouldn't own a used aluminum head diesel without warranty (duramax).
Just ignore this troll from onterrible lol.
By star he must mean eyes hahaFull of **** more like it .
Can't recall an issue with heads on a duramax. Sure, some fail like everything, but to think it is a timebomb is a little overreacting. Yes, diesel engines cost more to repair, but the cost of ownership is not considerably higher. I generally put 200k on my diesels before I sell them and not once have a had a major repair. Yes, of course some parts fail, but statistically they do not. So, if you fall into the statistically good truck, the cost to operate is only marginally more than a gasser. A few more litres of oil per change and an extra fuel filter every 40,000km. Not a real biggy.
Diesels can be very efficient to operate, and if properly cared for (warmed up, regular maintenance, etc) they will outlive a gasser tenfold. BUT, the OP was asking about a used diesel for 25k (ish). In alberta, you aren’t likely to find one in good condition with under 200k ( which is where you sell yours at...any reason? ) I’m not attempting to scare anyone, but buyer beware on ANY used vehicles. As a interprovincial red seal journeyman mechanic, I’ve fixed my share of poorly maintained vehicles, some without much time on the odometer. I’m not saying the duramax is junk, but I will tell you that they are more susceptible to head gasket issues when not warmed up properly, as iron and aluminum metals expand at different rates, period. Have a nice day.
Ford's are aluminum head too and would be same with a long list if you were right , I'm also a red seal tech (diesel tech also at a g. M dealer)
