These trucks are unbelievably simple and efficient. The VE pumped 12 valve CTD backed with the 5spd manual transmission should net you decades of trouble free service and exceptional fuel mileage. I've owned a 1992 extended cab dually for over 15 years now and while it's not the truck with the most creature comforts and it's far from the fastest, it is always the truck that is going to … start, take abuse and deliver a solid (hand calculated) 22-25 mpg.