Re: chevy vs. dodge
Agreed, as you can see below I own a ford truck, and my previous two trucks where f150's. They aren't speed demons, I'll never win a race unloaded with a GM, but then, even with my boat I barely notice it there and pulling it out of the water is effortless. That all said, the OP NEVER listed the Ford, and he is obviously looking at two used trucks. Fortunately at work we have both Dodge and GM trucks....thus I own a Ford...hehe...
The dodge, it's got great towing power, however the factory shocks were crap and gave out very early on. Also we blew out the rear end twice, the second time because the mechanic used the wrong type of gear oil, very very expensive synthetic lube is required for most chryslers. The tranny is now acting up a bit. All that said, it has never left us stranded on the side of the road...we have always been able to limp it home. Of note also, if you are over 6' tall, this is the truck to buy. You won't have any comfort issues. This rides like a truck...because it is a truck. This truck is also HORRIBLE on gas, and has a small gas tank (approx. 80L) which means you spend a lot of time at the pumps...typical of chrysler.
The GM's, I refer to them as tin can death traps for midgets. The good, the engines are indestructable! Very very very few engine problems with these trucks. For the weight we carry they are also good on fuel, the best of the big three trucks in my opinion. The seating is meant for midgets only, I am 6' tall and have a 36" inseam. My right foot has to be placed under the brake pedal so my knee doesn't hit the steering wheel...neither safe situations. The electrical systems are just jam packed with gremlins. Everything from ABS failures at highways speeds, faulty lights that just die one you, windshield wipers that turn on all by their lonesomes, Cruise control that randomly speeds up or slows down, transmission solenoid failures...you name it. The front ends are horrible on these things. Super vague and slushy, right off the lot. Like Ford though, ball joints are almost a maintenance item, although the Fords and Dodges have far superior handling and control (less frame flex likely). Also, as was mentioned, the bodies hold up much better in harsh conditions. Up here, our vehicles pretty much take a salt bath all winter. If you go Ford or Dodge, particularly if used, be sure they are rust proofed from new, as this does make a big difference.
I've logged over 2million miles in the last 15 years as a tech in all brands of truck. To be honest, even the new fords can't beat the old GM's of the early 90's late 80's. Back when GM knew how to build a truck. Since about the mid 90's their vehicles have just degraded like a compost pile. I've almost died more then once in a GM truck due to some type of failure or other.
Ian
