BajaNomad - Truck/Camper Question

Truck/Camper Question

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 05:41 PM

Hey all,

I have lurked on Baja Nomad for a while, but just decided to start an account to ask this question.

I have lived in Baja for a while, and now live back in the states, Wyoming.

I am looking to relocate back down in Mexico in a year or two, and have a pretty basic rig setup.

I understand that you need a 2007 and before if you are going with a diesel truck because of ULSD requirements of newer trucks.

I am looking to tow a 24-28 foot toy hauler to live in, so roughly around 5-6000 pounds, plus 3 motos (1000 pounds). In total I would assume my rig would weight around 7,500 pounds when loaded.

Do you all think it would be better to go with a 2007 or before 2500 turbo diesel truck or stick with a new 1500.

I do want to have offroad capabilities, so I suppose the lighter the truck, the better, but I also want it to be able to tow well.

Budget would be 25- 30,000 dollars for the truck.

Advise? Thank folks.

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 06:20 PM

I'd be looking at a 2007 Ram 2500 5.9 Liter cummins or maybe a newer 2012-2013 chevy 1500 silverado

TMW - 9-11-2015 at 06:23 PM

It depends on where you plan to live. Northern areas of Baja have ULSD and I would assume the southern areas will get it before long.

If you are going to be on the road towing a lot I would go with a diesel.

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 06:26 PM

I am actually looking to go down to Quintana Roo/ Cancun area to work down there for a few years. Not sure about the ULSD availability down there.

So in your opinion, a 1500 wouldn't really get the job done too well if I am doing a lot of towing?

rts551 - 9-11-2015 at 06:42 PM

go with the 3/4 ton. If you can find a clean 7.3 ltr Ford...they run forever.

SFandH - 9-11-2015 at 06:55 PM

I've had transmissions breakdown in a 1/2 ton Ford and a 1/2 ton Chevy. Baja is tough on transmissions. I drive a 3/4 ton now.

Definitely get at least a 3/4 ton if you're towing and make sure it has a transmission temperature gauge and a separate transmission radiator.

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 07:09 PM

awesome information guys. I do think the 3/4 ton is the way to go.
Does anyone have any resources that can help me find out where they have ULSD fuels in Mexico/ information on which truck models require it?

year models

bajaguy - 9-11-2015 at 07:24 PM

Generally anything in the year 2007 and newer will probably require ULSD however YMMV

Do specific searches once you narrow down your choice

CortezBlue - 9-11-2015 at 07:53 PM

I have a F150 EcoBoost and hauled a 35 ft 6000 to 7000 lbs bumper pull trailer. I pulled it over 6000 miles this summer. The only issue I had was coming out of Fenix on my way to Flagstaff on the last 15 mi 6% uphill grade. it was a very hot day over 105 degrees. My gauges went wild and my engine temperature went from normal to hot in a few seconds.
After doing the research I learned that the twin turbos and the computer put to much load on the turbos. It suggests to run premium and manually down shift to 3500-4000 rpm. This seemed to work great.

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 07:54 PM

Thats what I have read. I'm currently looking at that dodge ram 5.9 liter turbodiesel

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 08:01 PM

Quote: Originally posted by CortezBlue

I have a F150 EcoBoost and hauled a 35 ft 6000 to 7000 lbs bumper pull trailer. I pulled it over 6000 miles this summer. The only issue I had was coming out of Fenix on my way to Flagstaff on the last 15 mi 6% uphill grade. it was a very hot day over 105 degrees. My gauges went wild and my engine temperature went from normal to hot in a few seconds.
After doing the research I learned that the twin turbos and the computer put to much load on the turbos. It suggests to run premium and manually down shift to 3500-4000 rpm. This seemed to work great.

Awesome good info. I am definitely willing to entertain 1/2 ton truck ideas. Just trying to figure out the best fit for me

amastro46 - 9-11-2015 at 08:22 PM

Quote: Originally posted by soulpatch

How about buying a Mexican Ford F250 brand new?
Made up in the ol' USA minus most of the smog BS and you don't have to worry about placas..... plus, the peso/dollar relationship is pretty good right now.
Something to think about.

Thats actually a really good idea. I do love that damn hilux they have there. Logistically i'm not sure that I could make that work, because I'll be needing a truck here in the states for a year or two before I head down there

basautter - 9-12-2015 at 05:17 AM

I have an 04 F250 6.0 diesel and tow a 20 foot toy hauler loaded up. I used to have an F150 with a 5.4 liter gas motor. I also travel to Baja whenever I can to ride dirt bikes and fish. here are my two cents.

1) Diesel is not as available as gas in Baja, especially if you get away from Highway 1.
2) The 1500 will get you there, but if you plan on towing a lot, I would recommend a diesel.
3) Be aware that 04-06 Ford 6.0 liter diesels can be problematic, but are your best buy. They are fine if they have been bullet-proofed (diesel mechanics will know what this means). Know what you are getting.
4) The Ford F150 3.5 liter eco-boost is the best of both worlds. This will be my next truck.

Enjoy! :bounce:

MMc - 9-12-2015 at 06:12 AM

Why not get a 3/4 ton gas truck of your choice? Gas is easy to find, 3/4 will pull your stuff easy, the down side is mileage. 3/4 ton will be heavy to off road with too

TMW - 9-12-2015 at 10:31 AM

From this site ULSD is not a problem in Baja Sur.

http://forums.goodsamclub.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/ti...

David K - 9-12-2015 at 10:44 AM

Quote: Originally posted by TMW

From this site ULSD is not a problem in Baja Sur.

http://forums.goodsamclub.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/thread/ti...

Did you read all four pages of that thread? It looks almost like something from Baja Nomad! LOL

desertcpl - 9-12-2015 at 10:47 AM

3/4 ton for sure,, diesel and it might be best for a 2007 or earlier

mtnpop - 9-12-2015 at 01:22 PM

chevy duramax 2007 --2500HD Classic allison tranny,, been pulling equipment and fifth wheel and sometimes overhead camper
does very well in Baja and the US no load around 20mpg manuf. before the change to usld... am not unhappy with this truck at all
found diesel in Colorado this week for $2.33 a gallon...
quiet diesel with plenty of power... pulled 32' fifth wheel to mulege and back a few years back... no problem finding fuel.....

chuckie - 9-12-2015 at 01:35 PM

I have been driving diesels in Baja since 1990, and have never had a problem finding fuel. My truck has a 36 gallon tank takes me a long way. My current truck is a 1996 Dodge with over 300,000 miles on it. I carry a 9.5 Lance camper or pull a 30 foot 5th wheel. Mileage never falls below 14mpg. Empty 20+. The Cummins engine is bulletproof and can be serviced anywhere...My choice...

bajagrouper - 9-12-2015 at 02:05 PM

Quote: Originally posted by amastro46

I am actually looking to go down to Quintana Roo/ Cancun area to work down there for a few years. Not sure about the ULSD availability down there.

So in your opinion, a 1500 wouldn't really get the job done too well if I am doing a lot of towing?

I guess from your 1st. paragraph you are going to obtain a temporary residence Visa so you can import your vehicles and get a work permit correct?
Why are you getting such an older model truck? With the new NAFTA laws you can import a vehicle 4 years old = 2011........
Why drive down Baja, ferry cost for your rig is mucho Pesos,lol.
Because of fuel costs and toll roads, I would drive to Loreto TX and head down Highway 57 .......good luck

chippy - 9-12-2015 at 02:35 PM

Actually the ferry ride has gotten alot cheaper with the new xchange rate. I did it this summer and a cabin for 3 with my truck was about 320 usd. Granted it wasn`t like the old days of cabo to pv for 50 bucks but still pretty good value.

bajagrouper - 9-12-2015 at 02:45 PM

May be but but his rig is about 13 meters long...see what that costs...

bajagrouper - 9-12-2015 at 04:04 PM

I believe all imports are frozen until the 2015 rules come out, but this year should be 4 years old......Here is a portion from the Yucalanda site:

“(d) beginning January 1, 2015, Mexico may not adopt or maintain a prohibition or restriction on imports from the territories of Canada or the United States of originating used vehicles that are at least four years old;”
Previous NAFTA dates and years were: 2009: 10 years old; 2011: 8 years old; 2013: 6 years old, and these were all processed accordingly.
There are further clause relating to the years 2017 (2 years) and 2019 (no age limit), but given all the various changes that have occurred just in the last year alone that’s too far off to go into.

[Edited on 9-12-2015 by bajagrouper]

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 04:45 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajagrouper

Quote: Originally posted by amastro46

Yes to all above, I am going to be doing all of the correct paperwork and such. The reason for the older truck would be because of the ULSD restrictions and low availabilitiy of high quality diesel in Mexico

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 04:51 PM

Quote: Originally posted by MMc

Why not get a 3/4 ton gas truck of your choice? Gas is easy to find, 3/4 will pull your stuff easy, the down side is mileage. 3/4 ton will be heavy to off road with too

This is another thought I have had. I like the thought of the longevity of diesel motors though.

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 05:02 PM

I really appreciate all the great information. I have some different options but I do think a 2007 diesel is going to be my best bet. I just need to find one wiht acceptable mileage

SFandH - 9-12-2015 at 05:06 PM

Quote: Originally posted by amastro46

Quote: Originally posted by MMc

Why not get a 3/4 ton gas truck of your choice? Gas is easy to find, 3/4 will pull your stuff easy, the down side is mileage. 3/4 ton will be heavy to off road with too

This is another thought I have had. I like the thought of the longevity of diesel motors though.

Yes, but how about the extra money they cost? Is it worth it to you? Parts availability is also a consideration. I prefer to drive a vehicle in Baja that is sold in Mexico. That's because I remember having a beer with a guy in Mulege who was preparing to take a bus to San Diego and back to get a part for his diesel motor's fuel system.

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 05:18 PM

Quote: Originally posted by SFandH

Quote: Originally posted by amastro46

Quote: Originally posted by MMc

Why not get a 3/4 ton gas truck of your choice? Gas is easy to find, 3/4 will pull your stuff easy, the down side is mileage. 3/4 ton will be heavy to off road with too

This is another thought I have had. I like the thought of the longevity of diesel motors though.

You bring up soem very good points. I am looking to bring a new KTM down with me, and I know I'll have to have all the spare parts if there were work needed to be done.

You are correct, the gas 3/4 will be less expensive to purchase than the diesels. I could get a slighly newer one, with less miles, and stay within budget

bajagrouper - 9-12-2015 at 07:06 PM

Do you know the costs of nationalizing a vehicle now a days?

rts551 - 9-12-2015 at 08:09 PM

You will have to bring everything but expendables for the KTM. We raced a KTM quad for a couple of years and I was constantly running North to get parts or having parts shipped down.

gas VS Diesel

captkw - 9-12-2015 at 08:28 PM

Unless your always pulling a heavy load,,,A Diesel can be WAY over rated,over cost and noisy..a DODGE Ram is a Great truck..and the 10V gas has more torqe than the cummins..the ford 6.0 is a POS no matter what you do to it...sunday I'm working on a Volvo Penta supercharged/turbo Diesel motor..Yep ya read that right,,point being is the dodge cummins is great if you going to be towing all the time..if not, there are other motors that fit the bill,,nicely....if your not starting a tow truck co. (gura) I would drive some trucks before buying

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 09:26 PM

Quote: Originally posted by bajagrouper

Do you know the costs of nationalizing a vehicle now a days?

I actually don't. haven't looked too much into it. When I was down in Baja for months and months, nobody ever questioned my motorcycle. I know Baja and mainland are different, but this is a plan for a few years down the road, so I do have time to research

amastro46 - 9-12-2015 at 09:30 PM

Quote: Originally posted by captkw

Unless your always pulling a heavy load,,,A Diesel can be WAY over rated,over cost and noisy..a DODGE Ram is a Great truck..and the 10V gas has more torqe than the cummins..the ford 6.0 is a POS no matter what you do to it...sunday I'm working on a Volvo Penta supercharged/turbo Diesel motor..Yep ya read that right,,point being is the dodge cummins is great if you going to be towing all the time..if not, there are other motors that fit the bill,,nicely....if your not starting a tow truck co. (gura) I would drive some trucks before buying

Good info. Yeah I need to really evaluate exactly my plans. Ill be towing from Jackson Wyoming to San Francisco, to around Cancun, a few thousand miles. But from there I do look to post up the camper and have a mobile truck.

The 1/2 tons would be able to offroad better too

MMc - 9-15-2015 at 07:57 AM

The 3/4 ton diesel is a very heavy truck for off roading. It sounds like you'll figure what is best for you, good luck.

rts551 - 9-15-2015 at 08:24 AM

Quote: Originally posted by soulpatch

I, too, am curious about this topic.... a lot of good choices it seems.... the VW, the F250 diesel and gas options...... I love diesels, having pushed a big red one around for a career, but that gas option sure looks nice, too.

I finally switched on my last purchase. Gas mileage now good. Towing capacity OK for what I do (boat or quads)... and diesel has lost its price advantage it had 30 years ago.

rts551 - 9-15-2015 at 09:32 AM

Quote: Originally posted by soulpatch

You are correct MMc.
Apparently I do a bit of "thinking out loud" for lack of a better phrase!

Yeah, the weight consideration of the diesel has been a real concern to me. And the oil changes, etc....

I think I will be better off with the gasoline option for what I will be doing.... some work, some camping and maybe towing a panga once in awhile.

I need that crew cab with my family and the new F150's and F250's look pretty cool..... the F150 probably makes more sense in the longer-term overall picture of driveability and economy.

Either way, it'll be a truck produced for Mexico since I have to drive a national vehicle with my residency.

Not that this was my thread, anyway!

My neighbor has been checking out some pretty good RAM deals in Ensenada.

Just sayin....

woody with a view - 9-15-2015 at 11:12 AM

12019944_506643016183297_1099040021798126130_n.jpg - 44kB

mtnpop - 9-15-2015 at 11:24 AM

Quote: Originally posted by woody with a view

God, this one I love.... kinda like the new model has a heated tailgate... so you keep your hands warm while pushing it home....

But I don't like to tick off my Ford truck friends,, or Blondes, or Liberals, so maybe we should all have a sense of humor except when it comes to our Redneck-ness... then all bets are off.....

chuckie - 9-16-2015 at 12:22 PM

Aint no good truks, cept Dodge, everbody oughta know thet.

rts551 - 9-16-2015 at 12:33 PM

Quote: Originally posted by chuckie

Aint no good truks, cept Dodge, everbody oughta know thet.

Too bad Dodge don't make trucks any more.

rts551 - 9-16-2015 at 02:48 PM

can always buy in Australia. Tis one has a deisel option. Holden Colorado.

http://www.holden.com.au/cars/colorado