Used Diesel Truck

Consumers with their sights set on a “new” used truck have a number of choices to contend with beyond the preference between Chevy, Dodge and Ford. One of those choices is gas versus diesel. Diesel engines have a number of benefits over traditional gas engines, but they also have a number of drawbacks too. The consumer who has never owned a diesel may be unaware of all of these factors. Here’s a look at those pros and cons, which should help the consumer decide if a used diesel truck is right for them.

Cost of A Used Diesel Truck vs. Fuel Economy

The higher cost of diesel fuel in comparison to gas is a deterrent for many considering a used diesel truck. However, buyers should be aware that diesel has a higher energy density than gasoline. In order words, it takes more gas than diesel to achieve the same power output. Therefore, diesel is substantially more cost-effective than gas over the life of the truck in most circumstances. Gas trucks are more efficient if always driven very short distances.

Quiet vs. Noise

Some use aftermarket parts to increase the noise output of their trucks. For these types, the noise output of a diesel will be an unimportant consideration. Others live in quiet neighborhoods and have small children. If this sounds like you, then you might not want to wake the neighbors at 6 A.M. to the thunderous sounds of a diesel engine starting.

Used Diesel Truck Power vs. Torque

Essentially, gas trucks produce more horsepower while diesel trucks generate more torque. If you’re going to be driving your truck around town, then the gas truck will more effective. However, if you’re pulling heavy loads especially up steep grades, then you likely can’t do better than a used diesel truck. Decide how you’ll use the truck most, and then favor that aspect.

Cold Weather

Diesel engines don’t have spark plugs like gas engines do, which means that they can be difficult to start on cold mornings. This isn’t just a concern for those living in the North. Early southern mornings are cold enough to give a diesel engine fits. Therefore, this is an important consideration if you leave the house early in the mornings. It’s just one more hassle that you’ll have to deal with at a time when no one wants to be hassled.

Well there you have them, the primary considerations that should take place before the purchase of a used diesel truck. If you’re mechanically inclined and can get past these drawbacks, a used diesel truck will serve you well for a long time to come.



Source by Thomas Berninger