quote:

Originally posted by Don in Niagara:
while on the topic of diesels, I would like to know about normal engine maitainence.
I would not likely be doing my own oil changes / coolant R&R and such due to problems with disposal of waste oil.
So, how much would the "average' oil change go for, in the little 5.9 Cummins/Breakaway? How about the bigger CAT 3208/Regency?
Is general upkeep quite a bit more for a diesel than a 454 Chev or 460 Ford?
Thanks
Don

My 8.3 Cummins: local price: $200+ for an oil change, including filter. What hurts is the Allison 6-speed filter/fluid change: $75 just for filters, plus 25 qts of fluid - and it should be done every 18 months (low mileage). There are two fuel filters, and one coolant filter - all separate and above the oil change. Your cost will be less with the 5.9, but it can be substantial. I change all my own stuff - it is done right, it is not that hard, and costs half as much; the used fluids/filters are taken for free disposal to Pep Boys/AutoZone where I bought the fluids. MOST ROUTINE GARAGE MAINTENANCE, e.g. oil changes, IS PERFORMED BY THE 17-YEAR-OLD TRAINEE OR THE 55-YEAR-OLD ALCOHOLIC, not by real mechanics.
A big block Ford/Chevy V8 is dramatically cheaper to maintain in all respects.
My opinion: for anything less than 34' a Diesel is not necessary; not worth the money in initial cost; additional torque is nice but not really necessary. How often do you go over Vail Pass? The occasional long hill at 35mph is a small price (literally) to pay. What about cost of fuel? Gasoline has an advantage now. Aaand you don't pull your diesel into the local gas station/garage in Snake Creek, AZ for water pump repair.

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"You are what you drive" - Clint Eastwood

[This message has been edited by Gunner (edited January 29, 2006).]

I have drove trucks withDetroit 671-6V71-8V&12V.I have heard that thay are in the bible I think it says that thay will creep crawl and scream acrossthe face of the earth .That thay did execpt the12V and it would do a good job if it would stay together and you could afford the fuel.

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1975 mod25