Hi. I'm kind of new to diesel trucks, and had some questions about purchasing a first gen turbo diesel pickup. I'm basically after an older, RELIABLE 4x4 turbo diesel for light pulling and use as a spare vehicle/ parts hauler, and I'm looking to spend around $5K or less. Is this reasonable? I always liked the square-bodied trucks, and was told a '92 might be a good candidate as they are generally cheaper due to age and because I am told a lot of people don't like the styling of the older trucks. I'm kind of on the fence between either a first gen dodge or an older ford powerstroke but am leaning towards the dodge because of what I've heard about the reliability of the old cummins.
Any information, tips or advice you guys could offer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.



Nick

 

You should be able to find what you're looking for for $5k. '89-'93 have the body style you're after. '91.5 and up are intercooled.

Just watch out for rust. Bad floorboards are common, also the trucks rust from the inside out above the windshield, if you see bubbles there it's the tip of the iceberg.

 

4x4 first gen ride rough too but not to bad if you have a good seat or dont care. afterall it is a pickup.

jiMMy

 

I am currently in the market for one as well. Under 5K will have to be a truck in rough cosmetic shape for a 4x4, at least around here. Beat up 4x4 ranch trucks bring slightly over 5K.

If you up your budget just slightly you can find a nice truck with some waiting for the right deal.

The old pre powerstrock 7.3L and 6.9L fords are getting cheap around here. We had a 6.9 for a while, not much power compared to the CTD.

 

yeah i paid 7700 for mine. it looked pretty descent till the paint bubbled about a week after i had it. So watch out for that. but other than that i love my truck its got the power and the styling i was looking for. around here i seen a ok one for 6k but right now trucks are worth their weight in gold and you have to be rich to even look at decent one.

 

be patient, i scored my 92(wanted an extra cab 5 speed) but have a single cab auto now for 4500 bucks with 159k on the ticker and purrs away, outside has minimal paint defects and the inside was spotless. i cought it first day it was listed in the paper online(having an IT job helpsfor catching things quick) it was local and the guy needs cash fast as he was going through a divorce.

yeah for me. jiMMy