200TDI vs. 300TDI Probably beating a dead horse

lcdck

Well-known member
You’re not really comparing apples to apples with these two trucks you’ve presented. Either engine is fine and they have more in common than differences. You may even decide to replace the engine later on. I would buy a truck that you know has been well maintained, has the least amount of rust, not just showing, and in the color you like most. Paint and rust repair are way more involved than engine maintenance, or even engine swaps.
 

Grnrvrs

Well-known member
I love my 4BD1T powered 110. It is plenty fast for me, not to be confused with quick. I live at 7400, so not quite CB elevation, but we play in the same air. If the decision is between those specific trucks, I would choose based upon minimizing rust and mechanical condition. Service stuff is easy.
 

1of40

Well-known member
Comparing two engines with that many miles and unknown history IMO is really kind of a waste of time. Take the $15K and have the 200 rebuilt, buy some spares or put it in an investment account until you need it. There will be plenty of 200 spares as people continue to swap to newer crate engines. Someone said it earlier, the truck you want is the one that has the least amount of structural weaknesses. Engines can be rebuilt easily compared to the work of rebuilding what you can't see in pics.
 

TexasD-90

Well-known member
I really appreciate all the insight and advice here. You guys are very helpful. I think my biggest problem is the sticker shock! I know the '96 is the cleaner truck. Not a show piece by any means, but literally no rust, the frame has never been welded or repaired in anyway, doors and bulkhead are live new. I think I've answered my question.
 

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Napalm00

Technical Excellence Contributor
no brainer.

If you think you have sticker shock now, just wait until you have to repair this thing if you don't do your own wrenching.
 

supertreeman

Well-known member
Are you able to see these in person before you buy? Lots of variation between what people consider "rust free" Pictures can have a funny way of making things look way better than they actually are..
 

blueboy

Well-known member
You’re not really comparing apples to apples with these two trucks you’ve presented. Either engine is fine and they have more in common than differences. You may even decide to replace the engine later on. I would buy a truck that you know has been well maintained, has the least amount of rust, not just showing, and in the color you like most. Paint and rust repair are way more involved than engine maintenance, or even engine swaps.
Yep, this was my mantra when buying my D1. Mechanics easier than body work.
 

Uncle Douglas

Well-known member
Callsign: delete
My buddy and forum member here Dave Stauffer has a 200 on the other side of the mountain from you in Redstone if you want to try a tdi @ elevation. We wheeled tdi's around your area a good bit over the past couple of years. They tend to smoke more @ elevation and definely start loosing power around 7k due to limited oxygen but do just fine. We stop @ Secret Stash every time we pass through CB.
 

jymmiejamz

Founding Member
Callsign: KN4JHI
My buddy and forum member here Dave Stauffer has a 200 on the other side of the mountain from you in Redstone if you want to try a tdi @ elevation. We wheeled tdi's around your area a good bit over the past couple of years. They tend to smoke more @ elevation and definely start loosing power around 7k due to limited oxygen but do just fine. We stop @ Secret Stash every time we pass through CB.

So is the best solution to just install a Chevy motor from the junkyard?
 

TexasD-90

Well-known member
My buddy and forum member here Dave Stauffer has a 200 on the other side of the mountain from you in Redstone if you want to try a tdi @ elevation. We wheeled tdi's around your area a good bit over the past couple of years. They tend to smoke more @ elevation and definely start loosing power around 7k due to limited oxygen but do just fine. We stop @ Secret Stash every time we pass through CB.
Next time you come through hit me up!
 

evilfij

Well-known member
One thing to consider is 96 is OBD2 era so make sure the truck is emissions exempt in your jurisdiction. Some states are getting nuts about stuff like that.
I’d get the 200tdi as $15k goes a long way.
 

Uncle Douglas

Well-known member
Callsign: delete
One thing to consider is 96 is OBD2 era so make sure the truck is emissions exempt in your jurisdiction. Some states are getting nuts about stuff like that.
I’d get the 200tdi as $15k goes a long way.
There is no emissions testing on the Western slopes of Colorado- just the front range
 
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