As far as maintenance goes for a Diesel, you need to factor at the 100,000 -125,000 mile range you are going to need a Injector Pump. $1500+ Depending on the truck. But alot of people dont keep a truck that long. Just something to consider. Here gas is 2.97 a gallon and diesel is anywhere from 3.30 to over 3.50 in some places.

 

The 5.4 is the biggest engine you can get in a 150 - but it's the smallest you can get in a SD. If you are going to the trouble to buy a SD, you might as well get a V10 or a diesel for the enhanced work capability. Buying a 5.4 in a SD is like getting a Ranger with a 4 banger or a 150 with a V6. They both do the job, but bigger engines do the job better.

 

Definately get the V10, the power in those things is insane. My old man has a 2000 F350 with the V10, it has about 80000 miles on it. It pulls his cattle trailer VERY well, better than his F550 7.3 diesel. (trailer weighs about 14-15000 lbs. fully loaded). And, that is with less power than the current V10 and the old 4-speed tranny. The engine also runs really well, idles smooth, and sounds GREAT with the dual exhaust that he put on. He's had no problems whatsoever with it. With my experience of the V10, I'd highly recommend it. Hope this helps.