sup guys …I’m trying to decide between a new 2024 6.8L, a 2022 7.3L with 47k miles, or a 2021 6.2L with 46k miles. All are 4x4 crew cabs. My budget is $60k out the door. The 6.2L is the cheapest option of the three. I regularly tow 3-5k pounds, and sometimes up to 10k pounds for job trailer loads. I also drive over 30k miles every year.
Currently, there are no any reliable gas-powered super-duty trucks available. To my knowledge, all gas pushrod engines on the market are experiencing lifter failures. Given these issues, opting for a diesel engine is a better choice for towing a 5th wheel.
As an owner of the 6.8, noticed that it has a shorter stroke, but the heads are not any different from other models.
The 2024 6.8L V8 is amazing. The shorter stroke enhances its smoothness, and it’s reassuring that the heads are the same as other models. It’s a powerful and reliable engine.
The performance of the 2024 6.8L V8 has surpassed my expectations. Despite its shorter stroke, the engine operates smoothly and the heads, being identical to other models, deliver consistent power.
2024 6.8L:
Pros: Brand new with warranty, highest towing capacity (around 14,800-23,000 lbs depending on configuration).
Cons: Potentially the most expensive option (might exceed your $60k budget), less room for negotiation on price compared to used trucks.
2022 7.3L with 47k miles:
Pros: Likely the most powerful engine (430 hp, 485 lb-ft torque) for heavier loads, potentially within your budget.
Cons: Higher mileage compared to the others, may require more maintenance due to previous use. The 7.3L is a new engine for 2022, so long-term reliability data may be limited compared to the 6.2L.
2021 6.2L with 46k miles:
Pros: Likely the most affordable option, proven reliable engine, good towing capacity for 3-5k lb loads (around 12,500 lbs max).
Cons: Lower towing capacity may not be ideal for 10k lb loads, less powerful for everyday driving compared to newer engines.
Considerations Based on Your Priorities:
- Towing: For frequent 10k lb loads, consider the 2024 6.8L or 2022 7.3L due to their higher towing capacities.
- Mileage: With over 30k miles annually, fuel efficiency is crucial. The 6.8L may offer better fuel economy than the 7.3L, though detailed real-world data on the 6.8L is limited.
- Budget: The 2021 6.2L likely fits well within your budget. Negotiate on the 2022 7.3L if it interests you.
Recommendations:
- Test Drive: Drive all three trucks to gauge comfort for daily use.
- Towing Requirements: If towing heavy loads is frequent, prioritize the 6.8L or 7.3L.
- Negotiation: Attempt to negotiate the price of the 2022 7.3L to align with your budget.
- Fuel Efficiency: Research real-world fuel economy for the 2024 6.8L to compare effectively.