Dear Truck Trend,
Well, it has finally happened. I just saw the price of diesel was $1 more per gallon than gas at a Love's gas station. There's been a lot said about the price difference, and I still do not understand it. I have owned a diesel pickup since 2003, and now I am about to go back to a gas pickup. I know I won't be able to tow as much when driving up in the mountains, but I will find a way to avoid the high passes. I have been following the development of diesel improvements through your magazine for many years, and I believe that the higher price for the fuel, higher maintenance costs, and purchase price will be the demise of many diesel products. As for the fuel economy of diesel, it was great for a number of years (mine still gets 22 mpg on highway), but the new pickups' fuel economy is in the mid-teens thanks to regulations. Looks like a losing battle. Those that haul heavy loads have no choice, but for me as an RV owner, my diesel could very well be history soon. Love your magazine and the good info in it.
Clark Coleman
Via the Internet
Dear Reader,
From what we understand, some of the price difference between diesel fuel and gas is due to different tax rates for each. Also, it's said that the price of diesel is higher because there are more vehicles around the globe that run on it -- so worldwide demand is higher.
And as much as we love the range diesel offers (and the great fuel economy), the capability, and the relatively long service interval of most diesel engines, the price of fuel can make each trip to the fuel station a tough one. For those who don't need the capability or the fuel economy that diesel offers -- especially when towing -- gas power can be a good option. --Ed.
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