RAM 2500 Cummins DIESEL vs GAS (6.4 Hemi) | Which Engine Should you Buy? *Diesel Mechanic Explains*

Summary

In this video, Alex compares the pros and cons of gas versus diesel pickup trucks, helping viewers decide which engine type best suits their needs. He discusses key factors like towing performance, fuel economy, reliability, driving habits, and payload capacity. While diesel engines excel in towing and fuel efficiency, they come with more complex emission systems that can lead to costly repairs. Gas engines, on the other hand, are more reliable and simpler to maintain but fall short in towing power. Ultimately, the choice depends on your driving habits and the type of work you'll be doing with your truck.

Takeaways

• 😀 Diesel engines cost $10,000 to $14,000 more than gas engines but provide better towing performance.
• 😀 Diesel engines excel at towing heavy loads (e.g., 20,000 pounds), while gas engines can handle lighter loads (e.g., 17,000 pounds).
• 😀 Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient due to higher thermal efficiency and the energy density of diesel fuel.
• 😀 Gas engines are generally more reliable than modern diesel engines, which are prone to emission-related issues and costly repairs.
• 😀 Diesel engines require long drives to function optimally. Short trips can lead to more maintenance problems.
• 😀 If you tow heavy loads consistently, a diesel engine is worth the premium for better performance and fuel efficiency.
• 😀 For occasional towing, like a 15,000-pound camper, a gas engine is sufficient and more cost-effective.
• 😀 Diesel engines can experience 'derates' if there’s an emission-related issue, limiting speed to as low as 10 km/h.
• 😀 Gas engines have a higher payload capacity due to the lighter engine weight, making them a better choice for carrying heavy items in the truck bed.
• 😀 Diesel engines struggle with idling, leading to issues like clogged filters and turbo slobber, while gas engines handle idling better.
• 😀 The choice between gas and diesel ultimately depends on your needs: heavy, consistent towing calls for diesel, while lighter, occasional hauling makes gas the better option.

Q & A

What are the main differences between the gas and diesel pickup trucks in the video?

The main differences between the gas and diesel trucks in the video are cost, towing performance, fuel efficiency, reliability, and the impact of driving habits. Diesel engines tend to be more expensive, but offer superior towing capabilities and better fuel efficiency, especially when towing heavy loads. Gas engines are typically more reliable in terms of long-term maintenance and are better suited for short trips and light towing.

Why does the diesel engine perform better for towing than the gas engine?

Diesel engines perform better for towing because they have more torque and are designed for heavy-duty tasks. The higher thermal efficiency of diesel engines allows them to handle larger loads more easily, providing a smoother towing experience compared to gas engines.

How much more expensive is a diesel engine compared to a gas engine?

A diesel engine typically adds between $10,000 to $14,000 to the cost of a truck compared to a gas engine, depending on the model and manufacturer.

How does the fuel economy of a diesel engine compare to a gas engine?

Diesel engines generally offer better fuel economy due to their higher thermal efficiency and the higher energy content of diesel fuel. This makes them more efficient, especially when towing, compared to gas engines.

What is the reliability difference between modern diesel engines and gas engines?

Modern diesel engines are less reliable than gas engines due to their complex emission systems. These systems are prone to failure and can result in costly repairs. Gas engines, on the other hand, are generally simpler and more reliable in terms of long-term maintenance.

What are some of the issues that arise with diesel engines due to their emission systems?

Diesel engines are equipped with complex emission systems that can lead to issues such as DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) clogging, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve problems, and costly after-treatment failures. These systems are sensitive to high heat and pressure, which makes them prone to malfunctions.

What does it mean for a diesel engine to 'derate'?

A diesel engine 'derating' refers to a situation where the engine's performance is intentionally reduced due to emission system failures or engine codes. For example, the truck may be limited to a lower speed, such as 10 km/h, until the issue is resolved. This can happen suddenly and leave the driver unable to operate the truck normally.

What type of driving habits should influence the decision between a gas or diesel truck?

If you mainly drive short distances or frequently idle the engine, a gas engine is the better choice. Diesel engines require long runs to stay at optimal temperatures for both the engine and emissions systems. Frequent idling can cause issues with the emission systems, reducing the lifespan of the diesel engine.

What is the impact of payload capacity in gas vs. diesel trucks?

Gas engines generally have a higher payload capacity than diesel engines because the diesel engine itself is heavier. This means that with a gas engine, you can carry more weight in the bed of the truck without exceeding the truck's overall weight limits.

When is it better to choose a gas engine over a diesel engine?

A gas engine is a better choice if you only need to tow occasionally, have a lighter workload, or if you are concerned about the long-term costs and maintenance of a diesel engine. Gas engines are also a better option for those who drive shorter distances or need a truck for tasks like carrying equipment or payloads rather than heavy towing.