[Sirrotica]

Originally Posted by Ben M.

The 6.2-6.5 Detroit Diesels (1982-1997 GM) are perfectly fine engines for driving around and towing, but don't expect to do any redneck modifications to belch black smoke or win races. The TH400 behind them is bulletproof unless someone was stupid about maintenance, the TH700-4R\4L60E is something I am not comfortable running due to how many I hear about needing to be rebuilt, and the 4L80E that came in some after 1991 is the one to have.

If you can afford it, the 7.3 is also a very nice engine. I've never been a Dodge fan, so I don't know too much about the Cummins.

I agree, the 6.5 turbo in my 93 K3500 has close to 230,000 miles and the 4L80E is just a T400 with an OD electrically shifted. The engine and the transmission both work fine in my truck.

One other thing about the 6.5 is parts are usually much cheaper and many sources of used parts are available.

That being said I also have a IH with the N/A 7.3 in it that is about the same mileage as the 6.5. Both of mine are mechanically injected so the parts in the injection systems are relatively cheap and easy to work on. They all have advantages and disadvantages, most important thing is how the former owners maintained them, they'll all run good with proper maintenance.