Looking for a good deal on a 2500/3500 cummins

newbury · May 15, 2009

Well, I've got the tractor, the trailer, the BH is coming and the family is needing another vehicle. I am very fond of my '88 Ford Maxivan, but with a tow capacity of <9K, a trailer rated at 12K, an upcoming need for 4WD and dually I'd like to find another prime mover for my trailer.

Is anyone finding good deals on diesel dually 4wd 2500/3500's outside the model years of 1998-2001 with the infamous "53" block?

53 Block FAQ and Information

thanks

DJ54 · May 16, 2009

You might want to keep an eye on your local Craigslist. I found my '96 Dodge Cummins on there 18 months ago... Although it is 2WD, it suits my purposes... 60,000 original miles, and is in cherry condition...

I considered it a deal to me, as the price I gave was what dealers were asking for a comparable year truck with 125-150,000+ miles on them.

I use it to pull my horse trailers. My Living Quarters trailer weighs 12,000 stocked for camping, and horses... It handles it with ease.

Diamondpilot · May 16, 2009

I have had good luck with Craigs List and dealers both. I bought my Saturn on CL and our last two boats. There are plenty of scams so be ware.

Right now may be a good time to look at the Chrysler Dealers who are on the chopping block and make them a low ball offer. They may be willing to deal a little more than others.

Chris

DJ54 · May 16, 2009

True... There were sites that listed local dealer inventory, according to a determined radius of your choice. Since I haven't had the need to look for a while, not sure what is out there now..

Builder · May 16, 2009

Diamondpilot said:
Right now may be a good time to look at the Chrysler Dealers who are on the chopping block and make them a low ball offer. They may be willing to deal a little more than others.

Chris

From dealership owners I have talked to that are having their dealerships yanked, they are going into the used car business, not closing their doors.

Therefore, I wouldn't think you'll get a bargain on used stuff. New inventory would be more likey to get a bargain on. They have no reason to sell off used cars for cheap since they'll be their bread & butter moving forward.

newbury · May 16, 2009

Thanks guys -
DJ54 & Chris - Yes CL is one of my hangouts - That's where I found my "Kabota". With my flexibility I'm not afraid to travel, and with my trailer I could probably literally pick up a bargain anywhere east of the Mississippi.

Builder - As always, thanks for the advice, but my wallet and conscience was not letting me even look at new. I figure every $1K I spend on equipment equals about an acre of land. I'm looking at spending about $10K, less for pre "53 block". I'm finding "sold" prices - ebay auctions for about that. I couldn't expect to get a new one for less than $25K - 4WD, dually, AC. So that would be 15 acres of cutover timber land. And one of the great advantages of new is the warrantee, and that's up in the air.

MLinOleMiss · May 16, 2009

If you're coming to MS, there's a dealer in Collins (about 60 miles south of Jackson) that deals a lot in Dodges. He was the sales manager at a Dodge dealership for several years and deals a lot of duallys and 3/4 ton trucks. I've bought a Ford Ranger, 06 expedition, 04 Dodge Ram 2500, and an 05 F-250 Powerstroke from him so far. PM me if you're interested and I'll give you his contact info. He also sells on autotrader some under Quality Auto of Collins

Diamondpilot · May 16, 2009

Yea, Builder, I guess you are right. They will be picking up other lines like imports or go to used cars only. I would guess only 25% or less will just hang it up all together.

Now I want to know where you are getting land for 1K per acre. Junk land around here goes for 5k/6k per acre. I would be buying up all that land I could. Too bad you can't move it. Get it to the east coast or west coast and it would be worth 1 million per acre.

Chris

Builder · May 16, 2009

Diamondpilot said:
Yea, Builder, I guess you are right. They will be picking up other lines like imports or go to used cars only. I would guess only 25% or less will just hang it up all together.

Now I want to know where you are getting land for 1K per acre. Junk land around here goes for 5k/6k per acre. I would be buying up all that land I could. Too bad you can't move it. Get it to the east coast or west coast and it would be worth 1 million per acre.

Chris

Land where I live goes for $150-200,000/acre, even during a recession. Ask me how I know.

There is no "junk land" in my immediate area.

burnetma · May 16, 2009

A 12k trailer does not necessarily constitute the need for a dually. If you want one, I can understand that, but you are going to pay up front and then pay as you go for tires and maintenance. Tires for my F350 set me back $1200, vs. $700 for my F250. Tire wear is not as good because they are more difficult to rotate. Both NY & PA assess higher registration fees for dually's and most garages charge more for inspection and other service. It is TOTALLY up to you! A 2500 will easily handle your trailer and tractor. (I assume your trailer is a conventional tow rather than a gooseneck.) Dually or single rear wheel, you are going to need a weight distribution hitch. You should be able to find a hitch rated for 12,500/1250 which should exceed your need.

I checked the local market here and didn't find much in your price range. You are better of lucking in the south anyway to avoid road salt rust! Good luck and happy shopping.