We use mostly diesels - 4 out of 5 fords in our current fleet. <p>Here are some key points for why I choose diesel over gas:<p>1. Power over the long haul - hands down more power from diesels. After plowing for several seasons, the trucks don't seem as 'tired' as the gas jobs. We also need the day to day power for pulling stuff like chippers off road in 4wd.<p>2. Reliability - with newer trucks - '97-00 - the reliability factor is high with either type. We put a lot of miles in CT on all of our trucks. We use our dump bodies every day March-December. The trucks are rarely empty. I have had trouble with gas trucks in the past (of all sizes) and have accomplished more work with fewer problems since switching to diesel. We can carry more, pull more and sleep more (I don't worry at night anymore). When my gas jobs had problems, they were also towed by diesel wreckers. That sent a sort of signal to me.<p>3. Fuel Tank - We keep diesel in a stock tank at our yard. No extra breaks for the staff after they leave in the morning - they can have coffee and food here at the shop while fueling...you get the idea. Soon we will hook up our other tank for off road fuel - backhoe, skidsteer, chipper, mowers etc. and save even more money.<p>4. Economy - The diesels cost more up front, but I have found that after depreciation - the resale value is still strong. At least here, I could sell a used F-350 diesel 4x4 in a minute. The diesels plow and plow and plow....without burning a ton of fuel. Even while landscaping, the diesels get better fuel economy. My father in law was getting about 5-6 mpg towing with either a 460 Gas Ford or a 454 in a Chevy 3500hd. When we check - we seem to be in the teens.<p>I don't dislike gas, and its tough to argue against it purely on fuel cost, because no matter what, when you are running the truck you are getting paid for your fuel as part of the cost of doing business. It has become a personal preference now.<p>PHIL<p>----------<br>Phil Grande - Soundview Landscape Supply - http://members.aol.com/slsnursery<br>Ivy League Landscaping - http://members.aol.com/scagrider