Opening a can of worms

[Russellvh]

I want to ask a question. I know that there are some strong opinions and each driver will know she or he is the right answer but here goes. Diesel or gas pickup to tow a 5th wheel. First of all let’s assume the truck can haul the RV, exceeds all weight and size restrictions and can perform safely on the road. Either one is well maintained and will not be driven over 150,000 miles. The owner is a full time RV’r.

Why buy diesel?
They cost more to buy. Cost more to repair. Cost more to fill up. Have the added cost of DEF fluid. Less likely repairable on the side of the road by a shade tree mechanic.

My gas truck is just over 107,000 miles, I’m starting to plan on replacing at the end of this year and will, probably, buy a late model used truck. I really would appreciate input.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

Your trade in has 107. You didn't say you started having problems, only you are planning a replacement. So if you're history means anything to you! . . . Bragging rights may be the only advantage! Are they a valid reason for the added expense? No one here can validate your choice for you.

 

[Rosy]

I wouldn't buy diesel for my personal use case but I'm also unlikely to buy a trailer big enough where the added torque would be a significant benefit, even though I mostly travel to the Rockies.

 

[John&Andrea]

Well I have towed with gas and diesel, turbo diesel is better for towing. Yes diesel cost more to fuel up these days and maintain. If it’s a daily driver will factor in as well. But you will need to decide is the cost worth it. I have a motorhome today and did not keep the diesel truck, I sold fifth wheel and truck. Diesel is a lot of truck to sit around if your not heavy towing. I have the new Ford 7.3 gas in the MH I’m sure it is strong in the 250. Good lock.

 

[DKRITTER]

Here is the absolute best answer to this type of question;

It Depends!

There is really no perfect answer to the question, it's why HD Truck companies offer both.

 

[GTS225]

If it’s a daily driver will factor in as well.

IMO.....THIS is the biggest factor in your upcoming decision.

And that's why DKR (below) answered the way he did.

Here is the absolute best answer to this type of question;

It Depends!

There is really no perfect answer to the question, it's why HD Truck companies offer both.

If it's also your daily, then I'd go gas.

Roger

 

[Russellvh]

The truck I’m now driving has had no problems at all. Just that with 107,000 miles I don’t want to wait until I start having issues.

As for daily driving it’s the only vehicle we have. We stay in a park 10 days to 2 weeks with normal shopping / touring then drive, towing the fiver, about 300 miles to the next park.

Retired full timers neither work.

 

[Kevin D Pem]

The truck I’m now driving has had no problems at all. Just that with 107,000 miles I don’t want to wait until I start having issues.

As for daily driving it’s the only vehicle we have. We stay in a park 10 days to 2 weeks with normal shopping / touring then drive, towing the fiver, about 300 miles to the next park.

Retired full timers neither work.

You might consider the old adage "if it ain't broke don't fix it ". The truck you have ain't broke. There is no guarantee a replacement will serve you as well!

 

[FL-JOE]

Based on my personal experience one of the main advantages to towing a large RV with a diesel is the fact you can fuel up easily where the big rigs fuel up. If you are towing a large fiver with a gasser then you are forced to squeeze into the gas pumps, or just don't fill up while hooked up.

More reasons that diesel would work better is all around fuel economy. I suspect if you are towing with a 3/4 to 1 ton diesel you would be looking at getting 10 to 13mpg. Pulling the same fiver with a gasser you would probably be looking at 6 to 8mpg.

If you travel elevations you will certainly want the torque that a diesel will provide.

The bottom line is you obviously could get by with a gasser but why would you want to?

 

[Joe Hogan]

Interesting topic. Doing some research on the topic, most articles claim that "for towing" a diesel pickup is the better choice. That said, my experience with diesel vehicles 300,000 miles and 15 years, diesels like to run. They are not well suited for short trips like a short commute or to the store and back, especially in the winter.

An example of my research Is a Diesel or Gas Truck Better for Towing?