I'm new to the truck world - we bought a 5th wheel camper but don't have a truck yet for it. I ordered a brand new Ford back in November but it's been 12 weeks with no movement and I've decided to give up. Not only that but I had a few friends tell me I needed to go Chevy...

That being said I found an interesting 2011 2500HD near me. 170K miles, 6.6L Duramax, Crew Cab, LTZ. However, given all my previous research was about Ford, I really have no idea what I should watch out for. Do the 2011 HD trucks have any issues? Any particular years/features i need to watch out for? Will probably see it this weekend and I'm not sure if there is something particular I should look for when doing a walkthrough. Is 170K miles particularly high for this model, or does it have more life left in it?

 

170k is nothing for the engine, but the chassis systems probably need some attention. Specific things to look for:

-Leaks on the power steering/hydro boost pressure lines - if one is leaking, replace both as the crimps don’t hold up over time.
-Play in the steering linkage and ball joints
-Brake lines are all prone to rust, particularly along the driver side frame rail under the cab. If one needs replacement, save yourself the hassle and replace them all.
-IF the brake pads need replacement, I’d recommend rotors, calipers and hoses while you’re at it, especially if the brake fluid is dark, indicating contamination.

 

i would go with a 2010 as it doesn't have def exhaust pretreatment systems. DEF accounts for numerous expensive problems for all brands especially in cold climates. I'm in the wild west so people here delete the system instead of fixing it. No emission testing in my area.

 

Good tip. I forgot about the DEF systems.

 

I'm pretty sure it started in 2011 with gm. maybe early 11's might not have it?

 

I think it was federally required beginning with 2010 models but there were exceptions/waivers for some makes. The duramax could’ve been one. Or maybe it’s the GVW or intended use. I’ve seen several 3500’s with DEF - not sure how many 2500’s I’ve seen with it (at least from the introduction of DEF).

Cummins was able to build engines that meet the emissions standards and didn’t have to incorporate DEF into their systems - at least for light truck applications. We service buses for the local school district and some of them have Cummins engines and the DEF system.