Not just for commuting though. Every time I borrow something from my FIL it seems like I'm also borrowing one of his trucks to pull his big ass trailers. Granted he has three trucks and as he says "I can only drive one at a time" it still bugs me. I don't mind borrowing his tractor, quads, forklift, or trailer etc, but I don't like borrowing vehicles. Add in the room for the kid and future kids. I also do a 100 mile daily commute on a 2 lane state route, with the risk of a 60 mph+ head on accident I want the transfer of energy to be in my favor. Just a whole host of things.
Here's a pic he sent me recently. all 69 & 70 Chevelle frames.
View attachment 53405
OK, well now we're talking. I did not want to assume.
I recommend being like your FIL, and buy a GM. When comparing quality in the diesel world, Dodge owns it in the engine closely followed by GM. Ford for interior quality and outside looks, but GM right there. Drivetrain wise, GM all the way. You can't compare your small truck and "high quality" sports car experiences here, it's not apples to apples. If you can get by the GM interiors and some of the older body styles (like 05-07), then you will find that GM will come out on top.
I state these things from experience and from other direct family members/friends. I have owned 2 Duramax's (01 and current 14), my BIL has had all makes and always comes back to a GM (even though he just bought a 17' Dodge dually), uncles, cousins, friends, etc. I would buy a Ford but they just haven't gotten it right since they killed the 7.3L. I love the looks of the new Ford body and back to the 08, especially in a two-tone white with tan bottom. Their interiors are of high quality and their drivetrain is close to GM. Dodge interiors are getting there, their body lines are not my favorite (but RAM has gotten better than Dodge), but they lack in the drivetrain arena.
You seriously need to start listing years or a budget. The used truck market is stupid right now and you may find that you will be looking at a new one before you know it. A truck with 100K is still going for $30K and 5-7yrs old! Be like your FIL, buy a GM, 2007+ (but not a 2011).
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