Gas vs diesel for conversion van build?

[Doug E]

Curious to hear from others on this. What are the pros and cons to gas vs diesel motors in conversion van build please? I know diesel is supposed to be better for torque, are there any other benefits of diesel?

 

[smritte]

Mileage can be better but fuel price is higher. Not sure if it balances out. A modern gas engine will out torque an older diesel. Some motors are way better over all then others. It's difficult to find a bad gas motor but not so with diesel. Engine choice is something that has to be looked at for dependability.
A problem I've seen over the years is people tend to have brand loyalty and ignore the issues the diesel engine has. They just accept it.

The 6.0l Ford is a perfect example. Total pile of crap but people love them.

 

[Franklin Carter]

That brings up a good question on diesel prices. Diesel for longest time was cheaper than unleaded gas, why is it priced higher now?

 

[smritte]

Politics. Its cheaper to make.

 

[Martin Hand]

That said, aren't diesel motors good for half million miles?

 

[smritte]

They can be. You just have to accept them leaking half way there. The engines last, seals on anything don't live that long.

 

[Doug E]

Thank you. We are looking to have one built, but plan on towing a trailer from time to time. So power is important. Torque rather.

 

[Trail Mule]

I would go with the diesel, the difference in cost is minor compared to the torque you gain from the diesel engine.

 

[Vance Hogg]

Diesel prices are higher, but those torque numbers are amazing

 

[F Camper]

Remember the good old days when diesel actually cost less than gas?

 

[RVthere]

And fuel prices are going up right now. .40 cents last few days!