Need some help on truck options

DirtyBlackHoe

Bun B, Baracca, Beezer
Jan 24, 2011
1,045
248
63
Thomasville, GA
Hey guys. I recently sold my 2011 Ram Sport and I am looking into getting a Duramax. I am really looking to stay under 12,000 because I can pay cash and have a little mod money left over. With that said here is one of the trucks I am looking at. I am wanting pros/cons and any advice that people want to give me. I have no use for a diesel, it is more of a I have always wanted one type thing.

The truck below has been owned by my wifes Uncle for the last 8 years (he is a state patrol so it was his weekend and run to town truck). About a year or two ago he gave it to his son in high school to drive to and from. The dents in the bed are from hunting season when it slide off into a ditch on a dirt road. Here are the details on the truck.

2003 with 204k miles...it is completely stock drivetrain wise minus having a bullydog programmer. It has OEM injectors and has not had an issue with them.

Redid the front end and put new upper control arms on last year, two years ago out new shocks, ball joints, ac compressor and alternator on it
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Khaos

Bed Dent Club Founder
Mar 24, 2012
20,378
1,566
113
Albany, NY
If the injector balance rates check out, the trans shifts fine, headgaskets are ok, I see no reason not to scoop it. What would you get it for?
 

DirtyBlackHoe

Bun B, Baracca, Beezer
Jan 24, 2011
1,045
248
63
Thomasville, GA
might as well, but like dont get pissed if it needs some work lol

at least thats my theory for most vehicles under 10k
I am just trying to make sure I don't buy something that I "want" just to have it bite me in the ass. I know that they can have head issues and injector issues. I also know that it will be about a grand to get the bedside fixed...so I am just asking my brothers for some advice.

My really good buddy here is a certified Duramax mechanic, so I know that he won't ream me on the labor which greatly helps.
 

Dirtmafia

Hella
Jan 24, 2011
380
7
18
California
LB7's are cool. The mileage wouldn't really worry me. (Assuming it was maintained OK)

Like mentioned..... injectors, water pump seal, glow plugs, head gaskets are all known culprits.

The Allison trans in stock form is OK, People have had issues with higher HP tuners/programmers.
 
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DirtyBlackHoe

Bun B, Baracca, Beezer
Jan 24, 2011
1,045
248
63
Thomasville, GA
Ended up buying the truck...Got it for a deal and other than being completely filthy it seems solid and maintenance seemed to be done as good if not better than expected/