One of the biggest decisions you’ll face when choosing a dually truck is whether to go with a diesel or gas engine. Because you know a tandem trucks—equipped with dual rear wheels on each side—offer superior stability and towing capacity, making them ideal for jobs that require heavy hauling, from construction and agriculture to recreational towing.
But in this class of trucks, choosing between a diesel or gas engine depends on your specific needs, budget and preferences. So this post will help you to decide which is better Diesel or Gas Dually Trucks for you. and discuss their advantages and disadvantages
What are dually trucks and their uses?
Dually trucks, also known as dual-wheel trucks, have an extra set of rear wheels, providing greater stability, load distribution and traction, especially when towing. They are popular with users who need to handle large loads, as the extra wheels spread the weight more evenly. This feature makes them especially valuable for towing trailers, large equipment or campers.
Choosing between a diesel and a gas engine can be an important decision for you to maximize the performance, cost-effectiveness and longevity of a dual-purpose truck.
Best advantage of diesel dually truck
High torque for torque: Diesel engines are known for their high torque output, especially at low RPM. This makes diesel dually trucks ideal for carrying heavy loads, as the torque helps pull the weight, especially from a standstill.
Improved fuel efficiency: Diesel engines generally provide higher fuel efficiency than gas engines, especially during long-distance highway driving or under load. This efficiency means that, over time, diesel dually trucks can prove more economical if you frequently cover long distances with heavy loads.
Durability and Longevity: Diesel engines are built with stronger materials and components to withstand high compression and stress. As a result, diesel engines have a longer lifespan than gas engines, making them a long-term investment.
Higher resale value: Diesel trucks often hold their value better than their gas counterparts due to their durability, longevity and high demand among used truck buyers who need heavy-duty towing capacity.
Some disadvantages of diesel dually trucks
Higher Upfront Cost: Diesel trucks typically have a higher initial purchase price than gas trucks. The extra cost can be considered on a budget or for buyers who don’t plan to use the truck for heavy-duty purposes.
Maintenance and repair costs: Diesel engines generally require special maintenance and parts can be more expensive. Although they may require less frequent repairs, the cost of necessary repairs or maintenance is usually higher.
Cold Weather Performance: Diesel engines can struggle in cold weather because diesel fuel can gel at low temperatures. Although modern trucks have mitigations such as engine block heaters, they may require more preparation in extremely cold weather.
Fuel cost volatility: Diesel fuel prices can fluctuate significantly compared to gasoline, and in some cases diesel can be more expensive, affecting total cost of ownership.
Gas dually trucks have the best benefits for you
Low initial cost: Gas-powered dually trucks typically have a low purchase price, making them more accessible to buyers who don’t need much towing capacity or are working on a tight budget.
Lower repair and maintenance costs: Gas engines are easier to build and more widely understood by mechanics, making repairs and maintenance less expensive than diesel engines. Parts are more affordable, contributing to an overall lower cost of ownership.
Better cold weather performance: Gas engines don’t face the same problems as diesel engines in cold weather, making them more reliable for regions with severe winters or for drivers with extra maintenance on diesel engine block heaters.
Quiet operation: Gas engines generally produce less noise than diesel engines, which can make for a quieter ride, especially in urban environments or for daily commuting.
One of the disadvantages of gas dual truck is
Lower fuel efficiency: Gas engines are generally less fuel efficient than diesel engines, especially when towing or hauling. This can result in higher fuel consumption for drivers who frequently cover long distances.
Low towing capacity and torque: While gas engines provide decent horsepower, they don’t produce the same level of torque as diesel engines, making them less ideal for heavy-duty towing. This can affect the truck’s ability to effectively tow large trailers or equipment.
Short engine life: Gas engines generally have a shorter life compared to diesel engines. Although they are suitable for lighter-duty applications, heavy towing and high-mileage use can wear them out faster than diesel engines.
Things to keep in mind when choosing between diesel and gas dually trucks
Purpose of use
If you plan to use your truck primarily for heavy-duty towing — such as trailers, construction equipment, or RV the diesel may be a better option. Diesel engines provide the torque and stability needed for this job, ensuring a smoother, more efficient towing experience. However, if your use is more casual or limited to occasional towing, a gas engine may be more economical and practical.
Cost of ownership
Although diesel trucks have a higher initial cost, their better fuel efficiency and longer lifespan can make them more affordable over time, especially for drivers covering long distances. On the other hand, gas trucks have a low upfront cost and generally low maintenance costs. For those who don’t need a heavy-duty vehicle for constant towing, the cost of ownership of a gas dually truck may be more attractive.
Frequency of use
If you plan to use your truck regularly for heavy loads or long-distance driving, the diesel’s fuel efficiency and durability will provide a good return on investment. For lighter-duty, infrequent use, a gas truck provides adequate power and is more affordable to maintain.
Environmental impact
Gas engines generally emit fewer pollutants such as nitrogen oxides and particulate matter than diesel engines. Diesel engines are more fuel-efficient but emit more of these pollutants, although newer diesel engines have cleaner technology to reduce emissions. If you are environmentally conscious or live in an area with strict emissions regulations, a gas dually truck may be a better choice.
Our suggestions Which truck is right for you?
First, if you are a contractor, landscaper, or someone pulling a trailer over long distances, a diesel dually truck will probably serve you best. Diesel’s high torque, fuel efficiency, and long engine life make it ideal for heavy-duty and extensive driving.
Second, if your primary use is recreational – such as hauling equipment on a boat, RV, or the occasional weekend trip – a gas dually truck may be more economical for you. It provides adequate towing capacity for light loads and can be more cost-effective overall due to lower initial and maintenance costs.
Third, a gas-powered truck may be more practical for those who use their truck primarily for commuting, local transportation, or light work. Gas trucks are quieter, often more cost-effective, and don’t require as much maintenance as diesel engines.
Conclusion: Finding Your Ideal Dually Truck
Choosing the best engine for your dually truck involves evaluating how often you’ll use it, what kind of load you’ll be hauling, and your budget. Diesel trucks are built for endurance and power, ideal for frequent heavy-duty towing and long hauls. Gas trucks, however, offer an affordable, practical alternative for lighter-duty applications and sporadic use.
Ultimately, by understanding the pros and cons of each engine type, you can make a good decision that fits your lifestyle, so you get the best value from your dually truck.