Farm Truck/SUV, but which one?

[rh77]

So my Mom called me yesterday and reported that their '93 Chevy Farm truck died and they want rid of it -- buy what to replace it with?

I'm kinda stumped on this. The clincher is the 4-low requirement below.

So, they're looking for a fuel-efficient work-horse. The requirements:

* Must have 4-wheel drive, with low range
* They've had it with with GM, Dodge, and Nissan
* A hard-back (SUV/Cross-over) is preferred but maybe a pickup with a cap is a possibility.
* Should be within 4-years old
* Needs to handle the punishment of rough, off-road, farm activity and towing capacity (not sure on the lb. rating).

My recommendation (since Honda doesn't have such a vehicle), perhaps a Toyota 4Runner V-6 or Tacoma with a cap.

Can anyone recommend something else?

Thanks-

RH77

[SVOboy]

I was gonna say toyota, won't they have a hybrid truck out next year? Mehbe I'm making that up though.

[Ryland]

I would say the Toyota as well, mostly becuase they will outlast everything else, I would do some searuse research befor buying a V6, as I get the strong feeling that the only reason that the japanise ever agreed to such a thing was that amarican's like the name.
everyone that I've talked to who has a toyota as a work truck loves them, they also tend to hold their value for that same reason.
I've heard good things about the GMC diesels as well, altho I don't have any first hand expearince with them.

[rh77]

I was gonna say toyota, won't they have a hybrid truck out next year? Mehbe I'm making that up though.

Hey man, you're back! How's school? Chevy is going to have a mild Hybrid, full-size pickup (Silverado), but the folks have had it with Chevy. Their newer Trailblazer is coming apart at the seams (at 60K miles: alternator, power window controls MELTED overnight -- apparently a TSB/fire-hazard). The '93 Served them well, but it had a 350 V-8 and a 4.10 rear axle -- single-digit / low-teens mileage. 200K miles and it's time to retire it. They prefer to buy used, so the new Hybrid would be out.

Ryland - the 4-cylinder Toyotas are definitely the king of reliability, but the folks need more power for their application. I'll have to check Consumer Reports for the V-6 vs. V-8 comparison in reliability. But yes, I agree, they make great work vehicles and hold their re-sale.

GMC Diesels are actually manufactured by Isuzu, which is OK, I guess -- but the rest of the vehicle is a GM. It's too bad they don't sell the 4-Runner Diesel here like EVERYWHERE ELSE in the world. The farm buys Diesel in bulk for the tractors and other equipment, so with the new ULSD, they could use it in a vehicle -- but so much for that.

I would probably mention a Nissan, but we had a Pathfinder that was a complete POS.

It's looking like Toyota at this point.

RH77
"For SUV drivers out there, this is what an SUV is used for! NOT for going to the mall, or hauling you and your dry cleaning."

[psyshack]

Well if your talking about a working farm truck as seen around these parts a Yota wont do. There built right and the 4 x 4 systems are great! They can be modded into great rock crawlers and such.

If they want a truck on the farm to get in and out of the farm with light hauling. Run fence and stuff. The Yotas will work out good.

If you need a truck to tow implements, haul fuel, hay and tow hay, feed cattle and such. Best stick with a Domestic brute.

[ketel0ne]

My farm truck is a 79 F150 ext cab 4x4. Has 4 wheel low. Cost $500 with tags and title.

[ZugyNA]

I've been researching 4x4 trucks myself...you might want to check out the 1993-97 Ford Ranger.

According to Consumer Reports (yr 2000) reliability is better in these later years and the 3.0 V6 can get some decent mpgs...depending on how you drive it.

Lots of used parts also.

http://auto.consumerguide.com/Auto/Used/reviews/full/index.cfm/id/2039/act/usedcarreviewshowall/

[brick]

My parents were just looking at pickups for plow duty. Turns out that nothing Toyota makes is built to handle that (yet) and it could void the warranty. Domestics are the only way to go. (They would be replacing a 91 GMC that will soon have more rust than metal.) But beyond that, what a Tacoma won't do a Tundra probably would. That can be had with a V8 and a reasonable load capacity. I guess it boils down to what they really need to use it for, because as load capacity goes up FE goes down.

For a small truck I would absolutely go Tacoma, and if I needed to do serious hauling I would look at either the Tundra or something domestic with a Cummins diesel. (Would that be Dodge?) They make a solid engine.

I saw a Ridgeline with a cap this morning. The cap was a comical wedge shape but I bet that would get the job done. By all accounts, the Ridgeline is another excellent light-duty pickup.

[omgwtfbyobbq]

What about a T100? It's not a Tundra so they go for a reasonable amount, available with 4wd, and the 5VZ-FE (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_VZ_engine#5VZ-FE) is a workhorse from what I've heard. They have a maximum 2150lb payload/5000lb towing (highend) which is as much as a lowend newish domestic fullsize, iirc. The only downside is they are like 93-98, or something. Alternatively, toyota does make 1 ton small pickups, they're just hard to find. Here are some reviews. (http://autos.msn.com/research/userreviews/reviewlist.aspx?ModelID=2791&search=MostRecent&num=25&pos=0&RL=473930,453015,449629,440525,426093,394298,37832 4,375210,369912,363678,343903,326854,325820,310805 ,309869,306831,301923,270479,258339,255736,255199, 244974,241505,237197,234470,212673,211884,211758,2 06136,203550,200159,193956,169050,157364,153327,15 1822,147787,133080,130008,121348,121316,114617,112 066,106702,79824,79566,79553,77926,65307,60509,603 66,59615,58419,50549,43185,40570,11997,11764,10624 ,&csort=MostRecent#reviewnav)
But... from what you're saying, it seems they need enough to tow a house, and in that case, just pick up a ford, chevy, or dodge fullsize diesel. And when the body rusts out, the engine will still be worth a few grand.

[lovemysan]

I don't see how you could haul feed or hay in a SUV. I was raised in a farming community a farm truck to me stipulates that the truck is at least five years old and looks ten. That it is always covered in something brown and at least two of the tires say co-op mud something. That it is often over loaded and pulling something painted red, green, or yellow and has ag tires. There is always coffee in the cab and stray pieces of straw jammed under the seat. Usually a long furred dog rides out back on top of the fuel tank which smells of spilled diesel. The tailgate handle has a certain way to actuate it and only one side latches anyway.

I drive a $150 S10 4x4 on property. Its a great truck, but you want to keep your tetnis shot up to date and don't snag your clothes on the rust either.

I'd say get another GMC/Chevy. Sounds like they need the tow capacity of at least a v6. They've used small block power this long might as well stick with it. Plus mileage will be a lot better in the newer 5.3 v8.

[rh77]

Good discussion folks. I talked with them and got more info. Further requirements should have included perhaps more information...

The folks' primary business is the ownership/operation of a licnesed Ohio State merchendise store. They tow a medium sized-trailer on some occasions to fairs and conventions, so they need something no older than 5-years old. When they're back on the farm, they need the ability to do whatever farm stuff they do anymore -- the 4-wheeler hauls a couple bails of hay and the tractor does the bulk of on-property feed hauling, so they prefer something with with an SUV-style covered back for miscellaneous equipment/tools. They need true 4-wheel drive to navigate the property and get around in the snow. Something like the old Ford Bronco and early 80's 2-door blazer comes to mind.

I agree a true farm beater would do the job nicely there and American Muscle to haul, but there needs to be a happy medium. I mentioned the Ford Ranger / Mazda Bxxx, but something more "mid-sized" and covered is needed.

Unfortunately, the Honda Ridgeline doesn't have true 4-wheel drive, or else I'd have them in that yesterday.

The fact is, they're in their late 60's and need something reliable, tough, and efficient. As far as max towing, they would need something to haul maybe a stock trailer with a couple of cattle. The old truck is a '93 Chevy Silverado K-2500 (4X4) Long bed/Extended Cab 350/auto/4.10 rear. The problem is that the local Chevy dealer and service is downright terrible, so they're done with them. I really like the Cummins Inline-6, but don't think they'll buy a Dodge or a Ford (family tradition -- may have to break it). The Ford F-250/Super-Duty with the Power-Stroke Diesel might be nice, but still inefficient.

I have a friend with a '94-ish T-100, and it keeps going and going -- but it's a pickup.

I just hope they don't end up with a Suburban or something.

RH77

[tomauto]

Well, why not just get a truck and then find a nice cover for the tools and what not?

[rh77]

Honestly, I can't keep up with them. Even though they're in their 60's, I can't keep up with those kids. They do more before 9 a.m. than I do all day! I just want to get them in a fuel-efficient vehicle that won't break down and serves their needs. Honestly, their needs change on daily basis, so we may be spinning the proverbial wheels here. I can only recommend a vehicle -- after that, it may depend on whatever's parked at the local lot. At any rate, if you feel like more advice, keep 'er comin'.

RH77

[Randy]

Personally, I think there's a reason the domestics have held onto this market. They make mostly reliable, very affordable trucks. Plus there's all sorts, including ones with decent mileage.

The only problem is excluding GM, Dodge, Nissan, and Ford. What's left, Land Rover? They've never really tried a Ford, so just get an Explorer. It'll do the job, and I bet they can get a really good deal on one.

[ZugyNA]

FWIW- Too small for their needs, but the girlfriend has a '97 Ranger w/3.0 a/t that'll knock down 28 with no special FE techniques. I don't think that's too shabby considering how much power it has, the a/t, and the awful truck aero.

Is that truck 4X4?

Found somewhere:

"Well, the title says it all. I purchased my 1992 4WD Ford Ranger at Woody Anderson Ford in Huntsville, AL in 1993. At the time, I needed a reliable vehicle that would not leave me stranded on the side of the road, that would haul various educational, construction, and camping equipment over unpredictable terrain in a wilderness treatment center where I was working. This little Ford ranger 4WD truck was mine all mine for $6,059. It was used. Maybe a little overused as I would later find out.

My truck came with a 5 speed transmission, 6 cylinder engine, power steering, brakes, A/C, cruise control, etc...no power windows or door locks. The gas mileage was about 28-30 highway. But really, with all the off road work this truck found, it's really hard to say, exactly what kind of mileage it got."

[lovemysan]

Is that truck 4X4?

Found somewhere:

"Well, the title says it all. I purchased my 1992 4WD Ford Ranger at Woody Anderson Ford in Huntsville, AL in 1993. At the time, I needed a reliable vehicle that would not leave me stranded on the side of the road, that would haul various educational, construction, and camping equipment over unpredictable terrain in a wilderness treatment center where I was working. This little Ford ranger 4WD truck was mine all mine for $6,059. It was used. Maybe a little overused as I would later find out.

My truck came with a 5 speed transmission, 6 cylinder engine, power steering, brakes, A/C, cruise control, etc...no power windows or door locks. The gas mileage was about 28-30 highway. But really, with all the off road work this truck found, it's really hard to say, exactly what kind of mileage it got."

My brother has a 99 ranger xcab 4x4 3.0 at. It got mileage in the teens 16mpg average. It was completely gutless. I've driven 4 different rangers just alike and they all got pretty rotten mileage. On the flip side there alot cheaper to purchase than a toyota. Although I would say not quite as dependable after 100k miles. They also have a torque convertor that feels very odd at times. Locking and unlocking at funny times.

[rh77]

They musta got the farm after you left the nest- no farm boy writes "bail" of hay!

I grew up in the 'burbs, and for their "retirement", my folks moved back to Ohio from KC and bought 250 acres (my Senior year of High-School, ugh -- what a transition that was). I TRIED my best to work a 16-hour day lifting 80-lb bails onto the cart but, I broke-out from the contact with the hay, and I wasn't in any shape whatsoever (lightweight). I tried long-sleeves, but I'd sweat all day and nearly pass-out. Yep, lightweight. My step-Dad's cousins did most of it, and I kinda maintained the equipment and was still the "City Boy". Then, off to college the next year, and worked 60-hours/week at the Ambulance service, 50-miles out.

BTW, what's the right term for bail? They've upgraded to those huge round bails, where the implement does all the work nowadays.

I've mentioned the Ranger, which does have 4-low available, and decent towing, when equipped. Ford decided to keep the Claycomo (Kansas City) plant yesterday after all the cuts -- they make the F-150, Escape, Mariner, and Hybrids, so I'd be partial to the local economy there.

I'll have to get an update on where they're at...

RH77

[tomauto]

its Bale...you just spelled it wrong, that's all.

[rh77]

Spelling. Darn. I try to be good about that, too :rolleyes:

RH77

[psyshack]

Ive owned two Rangers in my life.

First was a early model v6 4x4. I had oil leases at the time. It was my pumper truck. I worked the hell out of it on the lease's. It drank gas and broke alot.

Second and Current Ranger is a 2000 Ext. Cab, I4, 5MT. It to drinks gas like a F-150. But will work. It thinks its a big truck and never complains about working. At 125K miles it has afew quirks. But drives like the day I drove it off the lot.

Fact is ,,,, We drive it very little now days. I think we have only ran three tanks of gas thru it in the last 6 or 8 months. Once you have a truck paided for. Its best to keep it. I drove it yesterday for a total of maybe 4 miles to go pick up and return a dolly used to move a freezer from next door to my house.
I may take it out and run it up and down the hwy today just to get it warmed up. If you dont drive a car they fall aprt as fast as one driven into the ground.

http://www.psyshack.com/pu.jpg
http://www.psyshack.com/pubed.jpg

[Ryland]

we have a 1998 Ford Ranger, and it, and the Chevy S10 seem to be two of the worst trucks I've ever driven, the Fords are geared to high for practical use, I've gotten ours stuck a number of times on the grass because it's 1st gear is geared so high, in the winter we fill the back with sand bags, and even then leave it parked as much as possible because there is no way you can make it crall out of a ditch like you can with a real truck, I've also driven it thru a few cities rush hour, and you end up riding the clutch the whole time, even with the extended cab the front seat is cramped, and the rear seat is nearly unuseable, our last truck was a 1993 Toyota, and it died (waterpump quit and warped the head, and the clutch needed replacing) at 320,000-ish miles (the odometer died at 309k) the guy who bought it new said he never did any repairs other then tuneups, oil changes, and tires, I've been impressed with all the toyota's I've driven, better gas mileage, drove smoother, hauled more stuff without issue, and were more comfertable to ride in then any other small truck I've been in.