[Brent]

IMO the only viable diesel G is the G300TD like Alan McReynolds owns. I am sure he will reply as well but, I think he gets nearly 20 mpg with that truck. The hp is less than the G320 but the torque is higher and that engine is backed by the five speed auto instead of the four speed in the early 320's. That model should be very comparable to what you have now except be diesel powered.

The 350GD is not something I would consider. The engine is a time bomb without some major updates to the cooling system and possibly a new cylinder head. This was probably MB's worst diesel ever.

The problem with the 300GD is power, you get 88hp, not much in a 5000lb+ truck. What I have considered is a swap to the 617A turbodiesel which brings you up to about 125hp and old school MB reliability. There are really no electronics at all on a 300GD and addding the turbo engine is an easy swap that makes the truck much more drivable.

The pre MBUSA G500 still gets my interest. I really did not like my '02 much, except for that V8 engine, which is a gem. Yes, they do get marginally better milage as well. The diffs are geared up and the five speed auto has an OD so the rpms are not nearly as high as the G320. The power is VERY nice in those trucks, and while there are electronics to deal with it is less than the '02 and newer trucks.

I have decided on my ultimate G. I will have a 300GE cabriolet at some point in the next few years. This is the 170hp gas engine in an early 463 chassis. Very simple and lacking electronics, very reliable easy to work on engine, and all the advantages of the 463 chassis which I have decided I prefer.

Good Luck[:)]