Why We SWITCHED From Ford 7.3L Gas to DIESEL

[@ZonaJim]

The Ford 6.7L diesel is a great powerhouse. But its biggest weakness is the CP4 fuel pump. If it fails, you can expect to pay around $12K - $14K for repairs. And an extended warranty will not typically cover the damage because Ford will blame poor quality fuel. If you plan on keeping the F250 for several years, I'd suggest you invest in a DCR fuel pump or disaster prevention kit from S&S Diesel. It's much less expensive than a CP4 destroying your fuel system. At the very least, make sure you add a good fuel additive such as Archoil or Hotshot every time you fuel up.

[@rickytecon5726]

I had a 'disaster prevention kit' put on my 2014 6.7 F-250. I also always change the fuel pumps every 10,000 miles. We've been towing with it going on 11 years. No problems. *Knocks on wood*. The DEF system has been a problem tough.

[@sarahann530]

​@@rickytecon5726 How much does a new fuel pump cost you every 10k miles ?

[@12055isgod]

Upper oil pan gaskets are pretty pricey too. Have to Drop the axle and transmission. Typically shortly after 100k mile warranty ends on our work trucks; $7-9k, but those are 450-550 chassis, so higher labor rates.

[@rickytecon5726]

@@sarahann530 I change the fuel filters every 10k. Not the fuel pump

[@sarahann530]

@@rickytecon5726 Then why did you post that you changed the fuel pump every 10k ?

[@TheBandit7613]

Living in the west with high mountains everywhere I go, I stuck with my diesel F350 FX4. It's important to ignore manufacturers new oil change specifications. I change the oil at 3000 miles and trans oil at 30,000 miles. Coolant at 50,000. Over 200,000 miles and zero issues. Still runs and looks like new. With the aux fuel tank holds about 140 gallons of fuel so I fill up where prices are good and that saves a few bucks.

[@fuzzywigglebutt]

If you are adding 140 gallons of diesel that is an additional 950+ pounds of payload. That would put a lot of people over weight (especially in an F250). But the travel distance sure would be nice. 🙂

[@glennbishop-smith9957]

I bought one of the last few 3/4 ton Chevys that came with the 8.1 liter gasser and an Allison 6-speed automatic, this was spring of 2007, we tow a 10,000lb 5th wheel. 150,000 miles now and no engine problems. We have looked at getting a new truck but there are too many stories like this one about the new big gas engines from all three manufacturers.

[@deltabravo1257]

The 8.1 with the Allison was the holy grail of GM truck gas engine combinations.

[@ReflectedMiles]

Ford does a lot of things differently, and after watching friends suffer the same kinds of issues as in this video plus repeating transmission problems, I have just stayed with my old GMC and plan to just make it force me into something else. Just crossing the 210k mark and have only had the usual high-mileage maintenance items from an oil-pressure sending unit to oxygen sensors.

[@Thesaltymedic36]

I had the 8.1 in my suburban with the 4L60 and it towed my trailer like a champ. Great engine, wish I had the Allison

[@ReflectedMiles]

@@Thesaltymedic36 Sure it wasn’t the 4L80? Awfully big power for the 60.

[@Thesaltymedic36]

@@ReflectedMiles yes you are correct. My 95 S10 has the that one 😂

[@donniehelmly4920]

I have a 2013 2500HD. With th big V8 gas motor. I pull a 30 foot 5th wheel. I get 11 mph at best. But 160K miles later. She still pulls my 5th wheel through the Appalachian Mountains every year since then. Pulls like a champ.

[@treeamigo8447]

There weren't any big v8 gas engines in 2013.

[@1798iscomingback]

Ford put the godzilla on Motorhome chassis that are rated 30000lbs GCWR so towing a 15k lbs 5er is not the reason for the failure.

[@RVMiles]

Absolutely.

[@treeamigo8447]

They fail because of that oval logo in the grill

[@mmmd3429]

7.3l gasser is a beast

[@melissasmess2773]

I've had a gen 2 Cummins since 1999, no problems. It might be the best light truck diesel engine ever made.

[@michaelburt1946]

It always amazes me how quickly people come to the same conclusion that I did. Towing an F350 diesel with a 42 foot fifth wheel is not fun. It’s a lot of work. I now run around the country and a 20 foot class B van and I’ve never been happier.

[@patricksquires77]

No judgement for any RVr but yes - More full timers trend smaller than trend bigger if they travel allot. All trade offs.

[@rickytecon5726]

Getting ready to do the same thing. I'm just tired of towing. Glad to read this and hope I feel the same way.

[@tombrown8522]

6.7's had their issues '11 thru '14, then different issue '14-'16. We got a '17 with the 6.7 towing a 10K travel trailer and have been to South Dakota twice. Maine, Ohio, Colorado, Montana and North Dakota with nothing but regular maintenance. Thinking about upgrading the OEM fuel pump to an S&S pump, but with regular maintenance, feel pretty confident that the 6.7 is about bulletproof with regular oil and fuel filter changes. Great choice going with the 6.7! Plus diesel fuel has a chance to be MUCH cheaper if orange Godzilla takes the top spot in 2025! I know it was $2.05/gal in PA when we bought our truck, then quickly went to $4.99/gal in PA in early 2021. I'll let you guess the reason!

[@jimballuff3849]

Really???? trump never had any proof ( convicted criminal, convicted rapist, proven liar, proven cheater, proven adultery, never had a successful business, six bankruptcies. 5 kids by three different women. couldn't pass a background check for any job in this country! He's not allowed in 37 countries because of his criminal convictions and you're voting for him. ...SO SHOW US YOUR PROOF tom brown.....were still waiting.....

[@pattinewman5186]

My husband and I own a Dodge 2500 diesel and LOVE it. It pulls our 31 ft. 5th wheel so easily up and down the mountain passes with no problem. ❤

[@treeamigo8447]

Well this gentleman bought the Ford so his experience probably won't be as enthusiastic as yours.

[@jsEMCsquared]

My 1978 454 with a turbo 500 transmission ,dually duel everything, batts gas . My best ever truck!

[@ernestdesimone2234]

I have had people approach me to ask if my truck was gas or diesel, I say gas and they proceed to tell me that I made the right choice because they spent so much money fixing their diesel. If you tow something really heavy, I can see where you need the diesel. If you have a family to squeeze into the camper, I can see having a big(ger) fifth wheel. If you are just an old retired couple, you can downsize the trailer (less $$) and downsize the truck (less $$) and go with a gas engine (less $$). If you are dead set on having the diesel and the giant fifth wheel, go for it.

[@dave4nier]

Great honest video. When I researched the 7.3 Godzilla, your original video came up, I subscribed right then and there. I have a 2020 F350 Lariat crew cab long bed with the 7.3 gasser and 3.73 axle ratio. I tow a 2022 Grand Design Reflection 295RL, and it weighs in at the CAT scale at about 11,500 lbs. (We are a bit overweight, but my solar and inverter setup puts the extra on the pin and the truck is still 800 lbs under for the payload...the trailer axles and tires are also within weight specs). I am happy with this setup. We usually travel several weeks at a time, last year we left Mass and traveled the east coast to Florida and back, we took 5 months. I tow at 60 mph, and lock out 9th & 10th gear. I get just about 9 mpg, and the truck runs down the highway at about 2k rpm. I think it is a great combination, we usually do about 325 miles between stops, and I can easily do that without having to stop and fill up with the trailer attached. On the truck alone, down south where the terrain is flatter, I get about 16 mpg. When I bought the truck, it had one previous owner who special ordered it and traded it in at 22,000 miles. He special ordered the exact same truck, the only difference was the color. I also bought the extended warranty so I am covered bumper to bumper to 100,000 miles with no deductible. I now have 43,000 miles on it and am happy, although I do watch for any sign of the lifter issue. I have been watching for a 2023 model but they are hard to find. The original owner of my truck just traded in his 2022 and ordered another brand new one with the same configuration. He tows snowmobiles and boats.

[@glennbeadshaw727]

You're quite likely won't have any less problems with your diesel unless you keep on top of its maintenance like a saint and you'll enjoy the costs of that

[@scottgorman7166]

Yes sir, you nailed it!

[@patricksquires77]

I did not know I can shop GM/FORD extended warranty after & separate from dealer of vehicle purchase Learn something from this channel all the time!

[@calledtojourney]

Yes, the only extended warranties you may want to buy are directly from the manufacturer of your vehicle, NOT the dealer. Do some searching for feedback on dealer warranties, and you'll find lots of horror stories and lawsuits.

[@stuartstuart866]

I watched another KZbinr mechanic, and he talked about non OEM warranty companies replacing failed engines with junkyard replacements, that were clearly left out in the weather and in pretty rough shape. Factory (OEM) warranties supposedly give you a new engine.

[@calledtojourney]

Yep, only OEM warranties are worth the paper they're printed on.

[@markcowart6887]

Another good video Jason. I’m surprised being able to fuel up with the truckers didn’t make the plus list for a diesel truck. Less hassle than navigating gas pumps…

[@Badgeweefixstuff]

You do have a point 🛠️🇨🇦

[@joedonbaker1673]

Yes, great point. I tow with gas and have to look on google maps before pulling into a gas station to make sure I can maneuver around. Truck stops are usually okay... With diesel you can almost be assured that you'll fit.

[@gregormaitland5065]

Access to diesel is a double edge sword. Yes, on the interstate it can be easier (as there is usually more room at the diesel pumps. However I live in the northeast and we use our gas F350 to tow our horse trailer. What I’ve noticed is that a lot of the small town gas stations we go to in NH, VT and ME don’t have diesel.

[@davidhillbrand2302]

Great perspective on the gas vs. diesel question.

[@timaz1066]

I’m so glad I own a 2000 Monaco dynasty that I full-time in. No diesel emission crap at all and it runs great.

[@michaelfrussell]

Thanks for giving a very nuanced analysis on diesel vs. gas.

[@Mike-te1xx]

Great video. Have a 2024 F350 tremor lariet with 7.3 gasser. After owning 2 diesels from a different manufacturer and having multiple issues with both under warrenty, I wanted the 7.3. We don't tow heavy or often. Absolutely love the truck.

[@MYJ61]

The word I got was that the cam followers are made of laminated steel and that they are delaminating. They get smaller, hence the diminishing fuel range, then eventually eating into the cam shafts.

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

Component parts are so $$ these days that an extended warranty is more attractive than it used to be. The TIPM on my Jeep Liberty was $1,300 (just the part!). Never mind the diagnostic fee. I installed it myself.

[@babyreps365]

That's been the plan for awhile bud. Endless monthly car payments and extended warranty. So much wasted money.

[@SK-qt1rm]

Other Trade offs with gas/diesel: gas has spark plug changes every 30-45k, diesel has point changes every 100k or so. Everything costs more on a diesel. Where I’m at, a lot of shops stopped working on diesels, too much hassle. Diesels last longer, but in the rust belt, does that really matter. Diesels have more power, but do you need it. You have to buy DEF, that is a whole separate bag of worms. If you run out of gas in a diesel, you have to prime the pumps….you can’t just add more.

[@TraconWizard]

If you're traveling, finding a diesel mechanic just adds to the stress.

[@chadmiller6487]

My 7.3 started having issues at 35k miles. I went with the gmc 6.6 gas. 70k and no issues. Also the difference in ride quality is insane.

[@MSparks9509]

Owned a deleted 2014 Ford 6.7 F250 for 10 years. Really enjoyed the truck. Put 15-20K miles a year on it. Got into a 2024 F350 Tremor with the 7.3. Like the truck but the gas mileage is terrible which is a shock to no one. I only tow at most 10-11K pounds and I only do long trips towing (4-10 hours) that a few times a year. Most of the time the truck is empty running around town. It tows a 5K pound boat locally or to boat ramps within an hour of my house. My yearly truck mileage also dropped to 10-15K tops each year. So I’m the “prime candidate” for a HD gasser. If I start driving more again or start doing more long trips in the future I’ll most likely jump back to diesel. The fuel mileage and the relaxed interstate towing nature are noticeable. I have to manage what gear the truck is in much more when running the cruise control at 70 through rolling hills and the Appalachian mountain range much more than my old truck. Which is to be expected but still. So as always buy the truck that’s best for your needs! Don’t worry about what everyone else is using. Use what’s best for you and your personal needs. For me at this current junction in time it’s a HD gasser. But that very well may change in the future and I could end up back in a diesel.

[@scottgorman7166]

I had the 6.0 and had nothing but problems for 10 years. Ford keep offering extended warranties for 10 years. Interesting!

[@mrmichaeltscott]

Oh no! That's one engine I was looking at until I heard about the valve train failures. I thought they'd straighten it out by now.

[@calledtojourney]

To be honest, it seems that the lifters going bad on the 7.3L is fairly rare, but when Ford is selling hundreds of thousands of these, even just 1% is a lot of vehicles. There are no truly 'bulletproof' engines or vehicles out there, and something catastrophic can happen to anything.

[@SK-qt1rm]

So, my Chevy 2500HD was first year model of diesels with DEF. I had multiple DEF issues starting at 35k miles. I always buy extended warranties from the manufacturer. 75k later I wanted to renew, one dealership said GMAC doesn’t do that anymore and wanted to sell me a different extended warranty. When you read the fine print, doesn’t cover DEF. I declined. I went to another towns Chevy dealership…”sure, no problem”. I got an extension for 108k miles from GMAC. Used it. Now I know more about DEF, last fix was about 20k ago. (154k). YT has good vids about changing Tank parts. Off the shelf warranties are a side hustle for some dealerships that have lots of exclusions. Side note: shortly after purchase, Chevy issued service bulletin extending DEF warranty to 100k or 10yrs.

[@Erin-Thor]

Look at Fords Annual Report, after warranty parts and maintenance are a larger percentage of their profit than other brands. Don’t hate me, just stating facts. And I’ve had multiple aftermarket warranties, and you need to know that the selling company can cap amounts. When I had a cracked engine block once, needed a new engine, $1,379 was the maximum they had to pay, even though my initial contract said it was covered. 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@RVMiles]

That's why I'll only do the OEM extended warranty.

[@Erin-Thor]

@@RVMiles - I had one too and they have the right to sell your contract to another insurance company.

[@rogergraves242]

After The warnnty runs out in the Deisel switch oil to Synthetic oil. So u don't have to Change oil as Often, &Longtivite is Longer, Less Maintenance.

[@michaellopour7409]

A lot of the problem with extended warranties is that a middle man prices in pure profit. Paying basically at cost for an extended warranty is really good insurance. Ford warranties are a good example, as long as you live in a state that allows you to purchase across state lines.

[@wiliamowens]

I’ve got a 2022 7.3 that I pull a 13-14k lb 5th wheel with. I think it’s a great combo. We are weekend campers, and most of my driving is less than 5 miles to the grocery store. That type of driving does not seem good on the diesel emissions systems. So far I’m loving the truck but I’m only at 34k miles, but the lifter issue is a concern. Hopefully it won’t affect me. But honestly the lifter issues seems to be a similar fail rate as the cp4 pump. But like you said at the end of the video, the 7.3 works well for the 10-16k lb campers.

[@RVMiles]

Yeah, seems like it will either hit you or it won't and there probably isn't a whole lot you can do about it, so best to just enjoy the truck.

[@wiliamowens]

@@RVMiles that’s my plan, just keep on trucking. My last truck was a 2002 Chevy with the 6.0 gasser. Not nearly the power of the 7.3, but I drove it for 20 years, and 268k trouble free miles.

[@fuzzywigglebutt]

I am curious as I am considering either an F250 with the 7.3 or an F350 with the 6.7 diesel. Do you have the 34 gallon tank? It seems you would be stopping all the time to get fuel at 8MPG. Do you have issues finding places to pull a 5th wheel at a gas pump? As a note, the reason for the F350 for diesel is that the 5th wheel I am going to buy is at 14,995 max. That is putting about 2,400 lbs of pin weight in the truck and most of the diesels in F250s seems to have payload of only about 2,900. Not a lot of loading up the truck room left. The F250 7.3 I looked at had 3,450 for payload obviously due to the lighter engine. To get the payload with a diesel I would need to go with an F350.

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

Decades ago my 327 V8 Chevy Impala sedan was backfiring , the problem was #7 cylinder - it turned out that the lifter had gone bad and flattened the relevant cam. So I removed the pushrods and ran the engine as a V7 - which worked great. I did change all the remaining 7 lifters - which had a lot of gummy varnish on them - so from then on I only used synthetic oil to reduce the possibility of sticking lifters in the future.

[@markwiegard8384]

Use diesel fuel additives to keep the re-burn exhaust system clean. Makes a difference to include mileage, about 1 mile per gallon. Not that big but just for keep the exhaust reburn cycle clean is worth it.

[@RVMiles]

Any suggestions on brands? I use to run Diesel Kleen in our bus.

[@markwiegard8384]

@@RVMiles I think running any fuel additive to increase octane is a good idea anyway. Diesel is a low grade fuel that can spoil and absorb water. The fuel additive will mix with water and keep anything that might grow in you tank. Best of all, if you have to get fuel from a smaller gas station it helps with old diesel. Anything to keep the diesel mechanic away.

[@gorvyourself]

We had a 2020 7.3 as well and loved it. We towed heavy all over the US. It’s a great engine but like you we change to 6.7 as well as we looked for over a year for a used 7.3 with 4.3 back and could not find one. It happened at the same time as diesel pricing went below gas

[@davidrose8612]

Absolutely inexcusable; if Ford 'got a bad batch of lifters' they needed to immediately effect a total recall of all affected engines regardless of age or miles and be an upstanding company. Chevy 454 and Ford 460 gassers were known to run hundreds of thousands of miles with not much more than routine maintenance. Current American quality continues to spiral downward. How your trade-in was handled was good news and I hope the new diesel proves to be reliable.

[@CharlesinGA]

ALL of the roller tappet engines on the market today are experiencing problems. Chrysler Pentastar V6, your 7.3L, the GM Duramax. I fully expect the Cummins to also as they have gone to roller lifters. Its just not a reliable system for mass production. For racing and high performance, yes, for everyday use mass production, no. Your Ford 6.7L will eventually have the CP4 fuel pump fail, hopefully under warranty as that is about $12K to repair.

[@patricksquires77]

I LOVE my Duramax powered 2500. I got tons!, earfulls, before & after purchase that gas was the way to go now. Below is MY OWN decision making. First off - I was biased… I wanted the torque and ‘ease’ of a diesel. Why is it ok for MANY MANY people to judge me that I spent on diesel but NOT ok to judge what they spent on their RV? 😂 … As if 10K is ‘allot’ in many aspects of RVs at campgrounds today? With above out of the way - below is the rest. 10k more for Diesel gets you the below- -Substantially longer warranty in years and Mileage without buying a extended warranty. This is often not known by almost everyone I get slack from about gas. -Depending on platform but most likely a more proven engine and transmission pairing. -A different world for mechanic shops… choose to service outside of your dealer at your choosing but there is excellent diesel shops out there doing fleet on these engines taking them to 500k-million miles and know everything about them. -Higher resale and if above 80k miles… substantially higher resale. -Gas Trucks have expensive catalytic failures today. Thats right!… misfires on today’s large gas engines wipe out today’s 3-5k sensitive catalytic very quickly. & Almost everyone jawing about DEF exhaust issues and expensive repairs is 8 years behind the times. Those DEF failures mostly do not happen as much as they used to. The DEF systems and particulate filters are substantially better on current platforms sold today. If you do not buy a diesel for all short trips and never working hard you will be fine IMO most likely. -Ease of filling when towing…. Note this is not all pure bliss for sure. Sometimes labeling is bad when you need to use fleet card etc… & Sometimes there is not diesel near enough for comfort. -Should be easier to sell - time will tell. At end of the day IMO - Why spend 1-3k on extending warranty when you can spend 10 on diesel, get benefits of diesel, and likely get half or more of the 10k back. 2021 Duramax! L5P 💪 Denali 😎

[@johndennison6093]

Do you daily drive your truck or just for hauling? I here so many things against a diesel if your aren’t towing with it every day. I just don’t think any of the manufacturers would produce an engine that couldn’t be a daily driver as well.

[@harpandharley]

Nicely balanced story. I went with a Ram 2500 w/6.4 gasser because it worked for my situation perfectly though I would have gone for a diesel if I could afford it. Keep up the good work!

[@airstreamer]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences with the two types of engines. - Michelle

[@KU9L]

We bought a 2023 Chevy 2500HD with the 6.6L gas engine. It does wonders towing our 2023 GD Imagine 2670mk weighing 8495#. We have 14K miles on it now, 9.5.mpg towing 17-19 mpg not towing on long distance highway miles. We just purchased a 2025 Brinkley 5W the same 33 ft length as our TT, but 6,000 pounds heavier GVWR. We are going with the Gen-Y Gooseneck pin box to utilize our 3,508# cargo capacity in the truck to stay in good terms with our pin weight. The 14,495# GVWR of our new 5W will be a challenge, but the floorplan allows external storage fore and aft to balance out things. We tow twice per year from FL to IL to CO and back again as we are now semi-retired. We don't drive fast and we take plenty of Harvest Host breaks. During our 6 months in Colorado we very lightly use our Chevy as we have 4 work trucks owned by our consessionaire employer. We may go diesel, but our 3/4 ton worked great for our new TT when our 2017 F-150 struggled for road stability when we shifted from our Lance TT to our GD TT. Before we leave Cheyenne in October we will hit the Cat Scales to adjust where our loads sit to make sure we are not overloaded on the truck side. We added 3K# Sumo Springs to our truck rear axle for reducing bottoming out on bridge expansion joints & the Gen-Y pin box will reduce the chucking once broken in. I know our fuel economy will be more like 6 mpg, but that 6.6L gas engine is a pussycat so far. Doing 6-8K miles per year seems to limit its wear and tear, we will see how we do on both our IL & FL stops in Oct/Nov. Of course our Dodge Ram friends think we are highly underpowered & not so safe, but so far the numbers work for us. We shall see. Cheers, David & Sheila Knapp

[@scottmichaels12]

I had a Toyota Tundra (1/2 ton) gas, that could easily tow 8500lbs. If you're new RV is 14,000lb, you definitely need a minimum of a 3/4 ton diesel, not gas. Just because you CAN tow with your current vehicle, doesn't mean that you SHOULD tow with your current vehicle. That's a lot of stress on a 3/4 ton gas engine. I currently have a 3500 Duramax dually towing about a 15K fifth wheel and it's perfect. I'm not a "RAM" guy, but your RAM friends are correct, you are highly underpowered. Your current truck will be just fine, until all of a sudden it isn't fine anymore, and you will regret towing such heavy loads with that particular truck. Hopefully your warranty will cover all of the damage that you're currently doing to it.

[@polymath5119]

Jason, the extended warranty with that CP4 is wise. Good on ya.

[@lyleswavel320]

Change that 6.7 oil and filter every 5000 miles, change the fuel filter under the hood and the fuel filter under the truck in back every 15,000 miles, change the crank case valve, ccv, filter every 25,000 miles, 3000 miles before warranty goes out put CP4 fuel pump safely return equipment on it from s & s diesel or change CP4 pump to the DCR pump

[@SK-qt1rm]

So, my Chevy 2500HD was first year model of diesels with DEF. I had multiple DEF issues starting at 35k miles. I always buy extended warranties from the manufacturer. 75k later I wanted to renew, one dealership said GMAC doesn’t do that anymore and wanted to sell me a different extended warranty. When you read the fine print, doesn’t cover DEF. I declined. I went to another towns Chevy dealership…”sure, no problem”. I got an extension for 108k miles from GMAC. Off the shelf warranties are a side hustle for some dealerships that have lots of exclusions. Side note: shortly after purchase, Chevy issued service bulletin extending DEF warranty to 100k or 10yrs.

[@treeamigo8447]

Extended warranties are highly profitable which is why they push them so hard. I played the fool twice, repairs denied, won't do it again.

[@olebloom1641]

I've had a 7.3L Diesel with a tune on it that pulled hard. The only long lasting diesel from all three brands. I was hoping one of the big three would ink a deal with Scania N.A. for one of their engines. Solid engines with no emissions craziness and still passes tier 4.

[@dennistausky379]

I'm looking at F250s now with godzilla motor thanks for info. But just need for 9k boat. I have 6.7powerstroke on my super C with F550. Just installed disaster prevention kit in the event of CP4 pump fail. It's a $12k repair when it does. Use deisel Lube additives. Check out SS Deisel for kit and improved pump. Install after warranty.

[@billdonnelly7556]

You bought it in my hometown of Beaufort! My parent and sisters bought several vehicles from O.C.

[@jeffclark4008]

Bought 3 2021 F350's with the 7.3. they've been really good. Very powerful and pretty okay on fuel, but one of them blew a motor at 120k. We changed plugs at 60k, but that was it. apparently that's not good enough. Several plugs fouled, clogged the cats and blew the motor. Lesson learned on my part

[@agtcovert]

Traded a 2022 Ram 3500 w/ Cummins SRW for a 2024 F350 Dually late last year. Custom ordered from Granger Ford in Iowa. We live in Indiana, so it wasn't too far a trip. Like you said, I'm not tied to a brand. I want something that tows well and pulls our fifth wheel, without making a travel day feel completely exhausting. The Ram had issues within 1000 miles; the supposedly bulletproof Aisin needed a new valve body. I got lucky, that was still during parts shortages but they found one for me in Texas and got it sent up. Then a power steering leak -- which when I took it in, the tech came out and tried opening the coolant reservoir to check the fluid level. Not exactly confidence inspiring, and they ended up replacing the entire system. Had a few other small issues, and I don't think it's specific to Ram, but getting parts just involved wait times that I felt were borderline unacceptable for an $80k truck. That said, yeah, the Cummins did great towing. Best exhaust brake out there, could slow 16k pounds almost without touching the brakes. The F350 though, totally different experience. So far, it's been great. Stable in a way I never expected (first dually). The 10 speed and Powerstroke are smooth and seamless. Climbed mountains in Tennessee and never dropped gears. Eats DEF like crazy when towing, about the only thing I don't like. I agree on the extended warranty, Granger had an amazing deal on it, and I paid cash for the warranty vs rolling it into the loan. Personal choice, but with everything on these trucks, it's a no-brainer IMO. Stuff is crazy expensive, and we do a few mods in the truck, I don't feel like doing it again for awhile, so I'm keeping it long as we can. The CP4...sigh. Might swap a DCR in at some point. Otherwise, knock on wood, the first 5-6k miles have been great. TLDR; my advice: stay up on oil changes. Don't pay attention to the computer. I changed the factory fill at 2k, it was gross looking. I plan to change every 5-6k. Given it's our tow pig and I only use it to run errands and kids (lol!) otherwise, the cost is what it is. Twice a year probably. I do it myself. Do your fuel filters around 10k. People are always split on fuel additives. I use Archoil or Hotshots. Another personal preference, but I'd suggest using it, at least every other fuel up. I have the Banks iDash (and Pedalmonster). I like the iDash because I can see more details, especially when towing. Keeping an eye on EGTs is worthwhile (and you can see when you're in ragen). With the CP4, I watch commanded vs actual fuel rail pressure. Glad you were able to get sorted during a trip, and hope you have 1000's of trouble free miles.

[@JohnSmith-ev1sm]

Talk about jumping from the frying pan into the fire! Smart money these days is buying the only engine in a heavy duty truck without issues, the GM 6.6 + 10 speed. The diesels all have emissions related problems, not "if", but "when" they happen. Ram and Ford's gassers is rolling the dice on lifter/cams; many are fine, but many aren't. The 6.6 is bullet proof. I say that as a Ram 1500 owner, the only heavy duty I'd even consider is the gas 6.6 and with your trailer or even a smaller 5w it would have been perfect for your usage.

[@E_House]

We love our 7.3L and haven't had any issues with it. We thought it towed wonderfully in the Rockies. We don't tow heavy. MPG is abysmal though.

[@jenniferchilton-kauffmann6280]

I find it unnerving that this optic came up as I sit stuck in Salt Lake City with a failed F150 engine that towed my little 4000 lb RV and am considering trading it in. 😳

[@frugaldiyhandyguy9295]

Thanks for the info. I bought a F350 with the 6.2 gas and 6 speed trans. Was wishing that I bought the 7.3 with the 11 speed trans. Glad I didn't.

[@greghanson5864]

butter pecan is the best!!

[@patrickmclaughlin6013]

Might be interesting to see the maintenance log for that gasser. It seems like these new vehicles are very sensitive to maintenance, especially clean oil.

[@ronaldbailey5407]

With diesel everyone talks about hills and mountain passes. All the modern diesels make more torque just off idle than the gas engines, this means it is easier to slowly back a trailer into its spot, or up onto levelers. Also there is the mileage. No it is not about the $. My gas trucks gave me single digit mileage where I get teens with diesel with the same size tank. This means I can go further before I have to stop, navigate to get to the fuel pump, get back on the road. It gives me more time to pick and choose which exit to take for fuel.

[@sferg9582]

Just wondering what microphone you're using in your open few minutes. It's amazingly clear and the quality is tops! Where do you have it placed since there is not a single bit of background noise. It sounds perfect.

[@coddiwomplecolster7329]

An excellent, well-rounded review.

[@MannyWC]

Same with the Ram 2500s- cams and lifters go if idling too long; the oil doesn’t make it up to lube them.

[@jimgardner5500]

Deasel is always going to be better for towing . It’s amazing that people will use a gas powered vehicle to tow a travel trailer longer than 20ft or a toy hauler or 5th wheel is going to regret it. If you’re going to pull or tow heavy vehicles don’t buy or use a gas engine.

[@hescominsoon]

there's a cp4 conversion that eliminates the cp4 problems...but that warranty wil protect you..after that do the conversion if yhou keep the truck past that..:)

[@TheAbrownie]

Jason congratulations on your truck. I had a 2015 6.7 and just bought a 2024 6.7 H/O love it. But please please use the diesel fuel additive. The CP4 fuel pump needs the extra lubrication. It also helps with the injectors. Enjoy your purchase.

[@RVMiles]

Any suggestion on an additive? I used to run Diesel Kleen in the bus.

[@ProudAmerican101]

@@RVMiles A lot of folks recommend hot shots. What were your oil change intervals and what oil did you use in your 7.3?

[@MSparks9509]

Archoil

[@situationaladventures]

@@RVMilesUsed hot shots for awhile and recently switched to Archoil system (1 small bottle every 5k and regular additive serving from larger bottle every fill up) and have seen longer intervals between regens AND has the lubricity for the CP4. PTT w/ Arod is a great channel to watch for 6.7 PS owners. KYD visited him for a DCR and intake upgrade.

[@keithmalmberg8395]

I run a 2000 F250 with the 7.3. It has 485k on it. It is a work horse, it us not a hit rod. It will tow the entire neighborhood, but it will take a bit longer. That is how a diesel is to be used. If you want the fastest thing around go gas, if you want to go slow and go for ever go diesel. And never skimp on maintenance!!

[@treeamigo8447]

Or just buy any cummis new or old and get both speed and torque. Those old 7.3 have less than 200hp brand new.

[@GK49245]

Thanks for the details. Good decisions. Had a Sierra 2500 diesel. Terrible truck, especially the engine. Tried to get a F350 gas. Terrible company and dealers. Agree on only a true manufacturer’s extended warranty. Hope this shift offers y’all a reliable, comfortable tow. We downsized from 30 ft Airstream Classic to fiberglass Escape 19 ft. Super duty trucks are off our list, thank goodness. Our current tow vehicle is a 2020 MB Sprinter 2500.

[@markwiegard8384]

I have a 2017 Nissan Titan Cummings diesel 5.0 and tow a 12,000 GD reflection 337. It’s like there isn’t anything behind you, unless, you’re pushing a wind head on. Higher rpm’s and a lower gear yet I still get 10 miles to the gallon towing (26 gallon tank). The Cummins is expected to go 400,000 miles plus. Yes oil and fuel filter changes are expensive but compared to a new engine ($26,000 installed at the dealership) oil changes are cheap. I change it every 6000 miles (synthetic oil) instead of the suggested 10,000 miles. My third year pulling with this truck. That said, I average about 4000 miles a year camping. Not a lot compared to full timers. So far so good 🤞

[@ron9381]

Keep the fuel clean I have a 2018 had a injection pump failure and the debris circulated and required replacement of all fuel components it was under warranty, but I had to take it to a second dealer to get taken care of.

[@greghanson5864]

Have now, in three years, added 70,000 miles to our F250 6.7 diesel that pulls our 30’ Airstream effortlessly averaging 14ish mpg when pulling and 20 mpg when not. Was it a little on the expensive side? Yeah. Has it been a great vehicle for us? Absolutely! Good luck with yours!

[@deltabravo1257]

How does your truck get better MPG when towing compared to not towing?

[@greghanson5864]

@@deltabravo1257 Sorry for fat fingers. Should read 14ish when towing!

[@lyleswavel320]

Make sure under your warranty, ford will provide you with a like sane truck equipped to pull your stuff and put in there if air conditioner or heater goes out you will provide me another vehicle

[@anthonypaulmannion7354]

Very insightful video. Thanks for sharing!

[@flyovercounty1427]

I know a Ford 3.5 Ecoboost owner who experienced excessive oil consumption well out of warranty. Ford replaced the engine. Did you disclose the issue with your previous truck during the trade in deal?

[@NormRidg]

Diesel is the way to go for heavier tow RVs. Went from gas to diesel and so much easier drive. Use cruise most of time. Better up hill and down hill was much improved with exhaust break. Using less fuel when towing.

[@christopherstimpson6540]

We still have the old 1994 Ford 460 CI or 7.5 liter engine. All these changes for just a few ounces of better fuel milage are a mess. The stop start on new engines is problematic as when the engine stops so does the oil pump.

[@calledtojourney]

I totally understand why you switched engines and kept the same platform. In your situation, you (1) obviously don't want to get a duplicate of the same engine that didn't work for you and (2) want to give viewers and podcast listeners your perspective on diesel engines. The one word of caution I would offer is that ANY engine, no matter how reliable anyone says that model is, can experience catastrophic failure. Diesel engines are no exception to this, and repairs on a diesel engine can cost far more than similar repairs to a gas engine, plus good diesel mechanics can be few and far between in many places. That said, I hope that you guys experience many years of excellent, worry-free service with your new truck and keep logging those RV Miles! I've been enjoying your podcast for quite a while now. 👍

[@RVMiles]

Yeah, they can definitely all suffer catastrophic failure. Thanks for your comment.

[@clintstinytrailerconversio5560]

I would never own a diesel again. I have owned mostly 1500 150 gas trucks, but thought I would go diesel in 2012 with a Ram. This was the last year of the non-DEF engine... diesels last forever right? I drove it for about 50K miles and it was in a dealership over and over. I was getting codes something like, downstream o2 stuck on high, etc. They replaced just about everything except any actual controller. It wasn't stuck on high, what I thought was happening was it was in regen because the decent MPG would drop to around 8, it was burning massive amounts of fuel for no apparent reason. They never solved the problem, even though I think they escalated it to Chrysler. Never heard from them. Because it was a 2WD I didn't like it anyway; that it would easily get stuck on wet grass... seriously. So, I went with a F250 gasser. I bought a Norstar truck camper and it was just about perfect. Again, something I didn't like was the height of steps getting in (I was around 70yo at the time) and it returned about 16MPG with the camper off. So, I downsized to an F150 - XLT highest trim level with some additional features, like towing and the pro trailer thing that I have never used. It has the awesome 3.5EB. I actually upgraded way up in torque and MPG is now 27-29 solo. I now have a 6500# converted cargo trailer / towhauler and a camper shell (Harker EDC), essentially a hardtop tent... that I can park in my garage) when I go by myself and it returns 19-21 with the EDC... 11-13 with EDC and the towhauler. This combination is perfect for me. My truck has 63K miles... funny thing.. the dealer that I bought it from continues to send me "deals", and this probably fake offer is, for less than $14K and I know it would easily sell for $22 - $25K. But, it isn't for sale. I really like the power, the Ruby Red paint, the 20" wheels and just about everything about it...

[@dougwelch8890]

I live in Colorado and tow a 5th wheel. Of course I go with a diesel. From my house no matter which direction I go except southeast I'm going over a 10,000'+ pass.

[@jam5158]

Good choice to move from gas to diesel. I had a 2500 gas RAM which struggled pulling a 33ft toy hauler up a grade. Switched to a 2500 diesel and never regretted paying a little more because that diesel had no problems with any hill pulling that trailer. Too bad you went with a Ford though a you paid way too much.

[@gsteve9129]

What was the difference in your fuel mileage between the 7.3 gasser and the 6.7 diesel?

[@russellnell3474]

Diesel is a ton easier to get in and out of gas stations!

[@jdawg1835]

I love my 2015, 6.7 Powerstroke, Super Duty!

[@dannylayton1106]

Purchase validation hit home! I just bought my 7.3 and a new 16k 5th wheel. Where is the link to the 2 Ford dealers extended warranty? Thank again even though this weighs heavily.

[@scottmichaels12]

If towing heavy with gasoline engines was actually as good as towing with diesel engines, there would be no need for diesel engines. Just because you CAN do something, doesn't mean that you SHOULD do something. I CAN mow my 40 acres on a regular basis with my zero turn lawn mower, but should I and how long is that lawn mower going to last me?

[@ozzielinkin]

I wonder why Ford switched from the V 10 motor to the V8. I have a 2011 class C with the V 10 Ford on a 1 ton chassis and cross my fingers. It has not missed a lick. Thanks for a great video . Good info to know .

[@ericmackay2514]

I have the 23' 7.3 and so far so good ..only 9k miles on it so far but towed out TT from GA to UT recently amazingly ...🤞

[@RVMiles]

Yeah, ours was great until it wasn't. And I'd imagine 95% of them will never suffer this problem. Make sure you go to a dealer and get that software update if it hasn't been done.

[@michaeljones7735]

It's good advice to never buy an engine the first couple years after it's initial introduction, always buy engines that have been out for a few years. Give the makers time to figure out the bugs.

[@Badgeweefixstuff]

Well well you opened a hornets nest lol. First of all they all have issues. So you can play the game so it looks good. We got 12 dodge 2500hd 5.7. We tow 8500 lbs. I had to do the lifters and cam twice now. But it is still way under the $12,000 for the diesel option. This is my view mine only. No comparison to the gas is way quieter. Cost of oil changes is 1/4 cost of diesel. Everything you said I agree. It don’t matter what you buy it will do the job for you. The only thing I do have issue with is Rv people and there 1/2 ton towable I don’t agree with anything over 7000 lbs should be 3/4 ton. This is my take we got 220,000 m 340,000 k on truck and trailer and it’s still pretty solid. Thanks awesome video. I am sure the keyboard junkies will be out lol. Awesome video. 🛠️🇨🇦🛠️🇨🇦

[@tractorfixrable]

My 7.3 had a lifter failure at 105,000 kms. 60,000 miles 🫤 I had extended warranty and got a new engine in 10 days. My question. The truck F550 is a 2021. So hopefully my engine is a 2024 with with updates. Can’t get an answer from anyone

[@bobnelson2828]

Powertrain warranty is 60,000 miles.

[@nunyobizkneez]

so you went from a lifter/cam $10-12k problem to a $12-14k fuel pump problem? Not to mention the 10spd issues out there also? Good luck.

[@Gnosticware]

Try electric like the Silverado EV with 500 miles range and no enjoy no breakdowns. And with 800V 400kW charging you'll have enough to tow a full day with one midday charge which will be done before you've had lunch.

[@arthurcutting9227]

Diesel is dead, killed by the DPF and EGR requirements. It'll be interesting to watch this play out.😮

[@toddincabo]

👍 Good job, nice truck. 2006 View Class C here, Mercede's last true non emissions engine, the "Million Mile Engine". Looking to find out!

[@bradwartman3647]

Love OscarO, our 2006 Dodge 3500 with a 5.9L Cummins. Why can’t auto makers just leave well enough alone and stop screwing with success?

[@kellyburdette6108]

I have had both with the big fifth wheel i have a diesel now and will never go back to a gas truck

[@johndennison6093]

Where did you buy your truck in Florida and were you happy with them.?

[@the_E4_Mafia]

Gen 2 5.0 V8 Coyote engine is the best modern engine Ford has made

[@jjones5424]

Good info, thanks.

[@lyleswavel320]

2024 super dutys are having air conditioning problems, going out at 800, 2000, 3000 miles and so on

[@TheAbrownie]

I run the Motorcraft Cetan boost. I get it from a Ford dealer. My thought is they designed the engine I’ll use their product.

[@lyleswavel320]

The ford dealerships are stacked up with 2024 super dutys, air conditioning pump problems has people scared

[@joedonbaker1673]

Great video Jason. I think you nailed it. And you're right ... nobody has an ugly baby. (With regards to what they bought). Safe travels and enjoy the new truck. 👍

[@RVMiles]

Many thanks and safe travels to you as well.

[@ADONAIsays-so]

Nice rig and great talk. Thanks

[@RVMiles]

Thanks for watching!

[@JeffChurchill-k9i]

I disagree , the diesel is far superior to the gas , I towed a 7200 lb travel trailer with a half ton ford 5.0 liter and it sucked , so uncomfortable , felt unstable and hated the high RPM noise. Traded it for a Silverado 2500 HD With the Duramax Diesel , OMG ITS AWESOME !! I don’t think gas engines are meant for heavy towing over long distances , they can’t take it. IMO