Daily Driver to Limited Use Pickup

[mojoinco]

I would buy the trailer. You have a tractor, so it will get some use in the winter (it needs to be worked occasionally too). Much cheaper in the long run, you get over your separation anxiety sooner (and some cash) versus the slow deterioration (and maintenance costs & hassle) of its aging. The trailer will not cost much at all in the same time frame.

I do have a contra thought: As time goes by, used pickups will start to get scarce, driving prices up on decent ones. So next spring (especially when graduation is getting near) will be a great time to sell. But -- no ac, sell before it gets warm. Things like time will be part of what gets the economy going (my brother is finally seeing customers order bits/dies as they finally are running out of stock -- used equipment will see the same trends).

 

[tlj87]

I can't give this thing up, so I will be keeping it.

I will be constructing a carport on a gravel pad in the spring to store it. I believe that the carport will not increase my property tax as it will not be a permanent structure.

There will be a solar battery maintainer (as recommended) installed on the structure and wired to a plug which will mate with a plug I will attach to the batter and run through the grille for easy access.
I will also purchase two locking gas caps to prevent (perhaps "deter" is the right term) theft/vandalism.

Insurance is the next question, however. Any recommendations from you folks on what level of coverage to carry on this? I am meeting with my insurance broker next Thursday.

Truck will be driven most every weekend April-November and 1-2 times a month Dec-Mar.

I have time off between X-mas and New Years during which I will be shopping for a used car (requirements are less than 50k mi, auto, air cond). Looking at the Ford Fusion, 2008+ Malibu, and 2006+ Honda Civic. Max budget for this is $11.5k. Allotting $500 for snow tires and rims.

 

[Alan L.]

I have a '94 F250 4 x 4 diesel (powerstroke) 5-speed manual, extended cab, 8 foot bed. I try to drive it every 2 or 3 weeks and so far so good (but I do put the trickle charger on it every now and then).

Just wondering how a diesel might fare in these conditions compared to gas? The truck is always parked in my shop, out of the weather.

 

[Diamondpilot]

Biggest issue with a diesel is the fuel. It does not store well for over a year without a additive to prevent growth of algae or bugs. You really need to keep the tank full to prevent condensation but also need to make sure you run the fuel though it to keep it fresh.

Chris