I PASS GAS

Hi guys. I've been reading this board for quite some time now (probably about a year) and I figure it's about time to do some talking since I'm getting ready to make a move in the next month or so. <br><br>I'm in the market for a 2500 CTD. My dad works for a heavy hauling company here in New Orleans and ever since my first ride in a Mack truck I've been a diesel guy. I currently drive a ricer (probably should have kept that one a secret). I've always wanted a truck, but I got the ricer when I was in highschool because it was economical. Now that I'm 20 and I'm in college, I figure it's about time I get myself a real man's ride.<br><br>I guess one of my biggest questions is if I should get a 12 or 24 valve. Really, I feel that I should get the 24 valve, but were just wondering about some other opinions. I have passed up some pretty good deals because they were 12 valvers. I know this is an issue of some conflict around here and I don't want to be the cause of one of those wars. Most of the time, I know it's only joking, though (ie Under/Over Valver jokes). Personally, I like the way the 24 valvers sound better. Does one or the other get better milage? I'm also scared about the KDP on the 12 valve, but then there's the lift pumps on the 24s.<br><br>An other question I have is weather or not to get a manual or an auto. My first car was an 83 Volvo and it had a manual with electronic overdrive, man do I miss that thing. It was so much fun to drive, now that I've got an auto in the ricer, I find myself getting bored. My only concern is the gearing on these things. I know I'll prbably end up doing a lot more shifting, but I really don't mind that. I'm guessing the manuals hold up better? Does one or the other get better milage?<br><br>As far as bombing goes, I'll probably go light on that. I'd probably like an Edge EZ, a BHAF, and the muffler is probably going to fall off, but I'll probably stop there. I'm really hoping that I can get about 20 mpg. I do about 50/50 mix driving. Is that unreasonable?<br><br>Thanks for the help--if you guys don't mind I'll probably kick off my shoes and stay a while because I'm definately getting a CTD soon!

redramnc

For 20 mpg you will need the 3.55 gears in either auto or stick. A 6-speed HO with 3.55s will probably get you the best mileage of the overvalved models while a 5-speed w/3.55s will be the best mileage correct-valved model. 4X4 will be about 1.5 mpg worse than 2WD across the board. Duallies have more wind drag and tire drag (as well as more rotational weight) so they get slightly less than a truck without training wheels.<br><br>Bumping the timing will help a 12V motor to another 1 mpg. The KDP is an easy fix. I wouldn't shy away from a 12V but then I am my own repair shop so some fixing is not an issue for me. Your situation will determine what you are comfortable taking on as far as rehabilitation goes.<br><br>Whatever you decide make sure you check it out and don't be afraid to walk away from a deal. If it is too good of a deal to be true then it probably is not true.

dodgeman01

24v have a KDP also <br>DM01

GrandpasRam

Hey Pass, welcome to the site. It is probably more a matter of personal preference than anything as to which to get, but there are a few mechanical factors that can be considered. The 24v were produced with the heavy valve springs to accomodate exhaust breaks (for those with manual trannies), while the 12v's had to have the valve springs uprated to accomplish this. Not a big deal for those who like doing such things, just a consideration. I had a 99 3500 (24v), 5sp manual with 3.54 diff, and really liked it. Having said that, when the 03's HO 6sp came out, I test drove one and immediately realized how much better it would be for towing my 5er than what I had. It really depends on what you plan to do with it as to which will best serve your purposes. I will agree with REDRAMNC that if a deal seems to good to be true then it probably is not good at all. Don't be afraid to walk away from that kind of deal, they usually are more headache than what is desired. Shop around, test drive several, check service records on used vehicles, then make an educated purchase. Good luck with your choice.