Okay here is my view on the big gas verses diesel engine controversy remember this is mostly my opinion so take it at that

Below is a list of pros and cons of both also on this note the rigs that I am referring to is 1 ton and smaller.

These rigs were Designed for gas engines with gearing and transmissions for a gas engine

The pros list

1. parts are cheaper
2. maintenance cost is lower
3. rpm range is from 600 to 4500 approx.
4. requires less gears for the same performance
5. less noise
6. less smell
7. fuel is available any where
8. replacement engines fraction the cost

 

Diesel engines

1. fuel mileage usually about 1/3 more to twice the mileage as a gas engine
2. usually five times the miles on a diesel than a gas (i.e. gas 100000 miles to diesel 500000)
3. big rig sound and smell
4. pulling power almost as good as a gas big block (with out major aftermarket mod to either version)

 

The cons list

 

Gas engines

1. averages about 100000 miles a good service life
2. fuel mileage is not as good

 

diesel engines

1. maintenance cost is very high twice as much oil and coolant for changing
2. parts real high i.e. glow plugs average is $8 and a spark plug about $1 starter is about $400 for a diesel and about $50 for a gas among other things
3. noise level is higher and smell is more noticeable
4. usable rpm range 600-2500
5. most 1 tons and smaller don't have enough gears to utilize the power range
6. replacement of engine is about 7 times as much than a gas
7. real picky on outside temp and grade of fuel
8. engine weigh more than a gas requires stronger running gear