I presently have a 94 4X4, and I love that old 12V. Economy is great, as is reliability... Problem is... I either have to start throwing money at it, or update to a newer truck(body getting worn down/rusty is the main issue, seats etc are others). I'm wondering... I've heard references to some of the late 2 gen/ early 3gen trucks being almost as fuel efficient. Would somebody expand on this, please? What about other pitfalls? I already know just about everything that will go wrong with my old beast...

Thanks

 

Im getting 19mpg in my 00 5spd. Just get you a good fuel pump and you will be good to go.

 

And avoid the 53 block if possible. Do a search on this site, it will bring up all the related info and pics.
If you love your truck what's the point in sellin? If auto body is your main concern then i would get some quotes on a cheap paint job. There's no need for all the bondo, repainting the door and fuel door jambs, and under hood stuff. You may also be able to find some seats at a junk yard that are in better condition then yours for cheap. Or you could spend thousand more for a used truck that you have no idea of it's history. Just an idea to think about.

 

I know. That is my quandry. The fenders need replaced for sure, and the doors and rocker panels are bleeding rust quite badly.

The other thing is a newer truck could be a quad cab, and I'm wavering between do I want a quad, or do I need a quad, and how much does it really matter.

 

You can get the same fuel economy out of all of them. If I were you I'd go for another 12v or 3rd gen. The price has dropped on the 3rd gens enough to where you can pick up an '03 - '04 for a reasonable price. Not sure how reliable they are. I think the injection pump should be better than 2nd gen 24v's.