RE: [A/S] Diesel vs. Gas engine operating costs

["Dick Martin" <suburbandvr@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>]

A big deal is always made about the higher initial cost of a diesel
engine.  Common sense should indicate that the higher value is retained
as the vehicle ages.  Since the diesel has a longer life it's value
should decrease slower with mileage.  To verify at least part of this a
check was made of Kelly Blue Book values on their web site.  Chosen was
a 2002 Chevrolet XT Cab Short Bed HD2500 with the Duramax and the 8.1
liter gas engine.  The 8.1 liter gas engine was chosen to attempt to
even out the field as far as potential power.  In retail value, the
Duramax was worth $6,995 more than the gas engine.  In private party
value, the Duramax was worth $6,105 more than the gas engine.

In regards to oil life it is an easy thing to monitor your engine's
quality and the life of the chosen type of oil.  A simple oil analysis
done just before or when the oil is changed will provide an inside look
at how your engine and it's lubrication is performing.  $18 or less is a
small price to pay to keep ahead of any possible oil or engine problem.


Oil and monitoring is cheaper than metal.  A modern diesel engine
replacement is well over $12,000.

 Dick Martin
   mailto:suburbandvr@earthlink.net
   http://home.earthlink.net/~driveabout/