I’d guess my net environmental impact is just now lower than US average because, despite my fuel consumption when moving my home, it’s tiny, energy independent, and it doesn’t move far or frequently. I don’t really know. I just don’t want to be judged unfairly, particularly when seeking help trying to do it even better.

I want to downsize my truck for cost and fuel efficiency. I’ve had this truck, my first, for a year, 3.5k miles. I’ve towed the trailer a short thousand miles without incident and including city, highway, and interstate.

Current setup:

'19 Chevy 2500 6.0L 4WD

Hitch towing ~2.5 tons GVWR (14’, enclosed, tandem, brakes)

Getting 8mpg @ 70-75mph

Next truck budget is $10-20k. I’ll keep it probably until the frame rots. I’m planning on replacing shocks & wearable steering components, am not averse to some work.

Should I target a 1/2 ton gas (leaning Ford 5.0L 4WD), a different 3/4 ton gas (which and why), or a 3/4 ton diesel (leaning Dodge Cummins)?

The paper numbers say I should get a 1/2 ton gas. But, my more experienced friend thinks I’ll be a lot happier spending more for a diesel because diesel engines can last a long time, it’ll at least double my fuel efficiency, and it’s a little extra overkill for an easier tow.

I’m open to all informed perspectives. What’s my best plan and why?

  • SatansMaggotyCumFart@lemmy.world
    19·
    4 days ago

    I think this might be a case where downsizing is actually a bad idea.

    You have a six year vehicle that serves it’s purpose, why not invest in a micromobility option to save fuel while you’re not towing your trailer?

    • SirDerpy@lemmy.worldOP
      2·
      4 days ago

      The '19 3/4 ton is worth $38k. It was a great truck for my wife and I to build experience. Only now, with some experience, do we know it can be done for half the price. But, with only a little experience, we’re not quite sure what our best choice is and why.

      Can’t do an electric bicycle out here for lots of reasons, first and foremost range and speed. But, we’re thinking along those lines. We’re aiming at a 650 motorcycle in the next six months.

        • SirDerpy@lemmy.worldOP
          2·
          3 days ago

          You did give me the advice I was looking for, sorta. You had me thinking, “How could downsizing be wrong”

          Yesterday, every opportunity, three times, I asked someone else that was towing (random drivers stopped) what they thought. They all agree with you: Downsizing is not good.

          Also, the diesel owner wishes he’d bought a gas. The gas owners wish they’d bought a diesel.