Sat Nov 29, 2014 12:40 pm by Isaaciniowa
been a while since i've been on the forum. after much soul searching and deliberation, I've made the decision to not use a diesel engine. I looked at the pros and cons of a diesel vs gas for what I wanted to do, and a gasoline came out on top every time. I realized I basically wanted a diesel just for the novelty of it.
My truck is going to be built as a driver/pro touring/rat rod. I want to fix it up to run and drive like a modern car, with all of the amenities, but I will leave the exterior mostly stock with all of the patina.
Mainly the choice I had was to use the 4bt, or to use a 5.3/LS engine. The cummins is heavy, much harder to find, somewhat outdated, and is loud, dirty, and smelly (not bad things, but things to consider) Whereas, I can find a lower mileage, running 5.3 with a harness and computer for around 700 bucks in this neck of the woods. they come stock with 325 HP, and with a cam, valve springs, and some decent heads, I can get 400-450 hp. the 5.3 routinely will go over 300,000 miles with periodic maintenance, as will the cummins, but when it comes time to replace or rebuild, the 5.3 wins out again. This truck will never see a trailer or likely any heavy loads, and I think the 5.3 will have the edge over the 4bt in the fun factor also.
I really do appreciate all of the input, insight, and suggestions made here. I believe in my heart that someday I will own a torque monster diesel, but this truck won't be the recipient.