[groundwork]

So I started out thinking that all I needed was a little toyota truck for the business. However after the 15th trip to the dump in a single day of digging up sod, or paying the $80 to get just one ton of something delivered (not to mention not being able to haul around helpers to do the unloading!), I've decided that I need a bigger truck. I'm going the bio-diesel route-it's readily available here and not more expensive than diesel. Problem is, I don't have a lot to spend. Not more than $9000 and if I spend less than that, then I get to buy other toys with what's left over. I'm hoping this truck will only have to last us one year.

So, I've been looking around and have found two trucks that I like.

a '94 f350 crew cab powerstroke diesel with a dump bed for $9000 -133,000 miles (my back would like this one the best)

or

a '92 f350 crew cab 4x4 for $5300 -173,000 miles (my bank would like this one the best)

I know it's not much info to make a choice on, but if anyone would be willing to weigh in, I'd much appreciate it.

[SodSquad]

Get the dump box, dont even think about the other truck. you'll save time and money with it.

[Stonehenge]

I agree with SodSquad - the dump body (assuming it's in good shape and the hydros are good) will be worth it's weight in gold.

[davedogwood]

I agree go with the dump, once you go dump you'll say... how the hell did I ever do this any other way.
9000 for a '92 w/hi milage sound high, try negotiating

Dave

[scott C]

same as above dump is the way to go. Don't forget though diesel motor parts are generally more xpensive than gassers. Also check out the diesel stop .com for info on what to look for when checking out the truck.

[groundwork]

Thank you for all the info and for the strong vote on the dump! I was thinking that was the way to go.

[Pelican]

The 7.3 PowerStrokes are pretty reliable if maintained. They will easily go 250,000 miles. While parts can be more expensive, there are fewer of them and they are heavier duty and less likely to fail. The '92 will be a naturally aspirated engine and have much less power than the '94.

If you plant to haul materials frequently, then there's no question you should consider the dump over the pickup.

[TrickyDick]

I'm surprsied no one else has said this but...

It's a tough call with only 9k to spend but I would seriously consider getting the 4x4 and getting yourself a used a dump trailer. You can probably find the trailer for 2-3k and unless the dump truck has a grain body you will be seriously disappointed in how much you can carry in the dump bed. It seems like every landscaper around here (and there are a lot) ends up with a one ton dump and I really think that going with pick-ups and dump trailers instead was one of the smartest things we ever did. With a set up like that you are WAY more versatile and a decent, ten foot dump trailer can haul a lot more (both weight and volume) than a standard dump bed.

Unless you have another trailer you have to haul everyday. Then I guess you have to go with the dump truck.

[capt_met]

i agree with tricky dick. dump trailer and truck combo.