All,

As you all know I am looking for a pick-up to use as my daily driver (4 miles a day) and as a multi-purpose vehicle for Home Depot and odd jobs around the house. I have never owned a pick-up truck and my only requirements are it must be a 4x4 and extended cab. I have been looking at both GM and Ford products because of price (I am looking at a used under $15k price tag). I have been looking only at 1/2 tom (GM 1500 and Ford F-150) trucks, but came across several 3/4 ton trucks (GM 2500 or Ford F250), I don't really tow anything right now, but might in the future (looking to get a small boat (18')). What do you guys think, should I consider 3/4 ton trucks as well. Also I have a baby (15 month old) and he will be riding in the truck a couple of times a week, so I am also concern with ride quality

 

I have experience with a few of these vehicles. I have an 8.1L Yukon XL 2500, my brother has the 5.0L 1500 Yukon, and father drives the 6.0L 2500 XL. All three can tow our 27ft hallett ski boat. Ride quality is much better in my opinion in the 1500 series, and so is the fuel economy of the smaller V8's. I would stick with the smallest engine (a 4.3L I think) as it will tow an 18ft boat and serve our puposes for a lot less money in the long run.
Michael

 

We have a fleet of vehicles, Ford, Chevy & Dodge. We have had better luck with the Chevy truck products than either of the other. Ford brake rotors wear warp very easily. I think the Chevy half ton would suit you fine, unless you start to tow your car. Then i would go with the 3/4.