Opinion for Diesel or Gasoline?

[chromebumpers]

Besides my diehard desire for a big block convertible cruiser like a Caddy, Impala or my growing favorite - a big Pontiac, all of which I really prefer getting basically finished - I believe I have it in me for one final "project."

A mid to late '60s GM truck. I already have a low miles '06 Duramax LBZ, but I'm wondering what would be the most desirable engine:
A). Period correct small block
B). " ". big block 396/402 or 427
C). A current generation LS2, 3, 6, or an LS7
D). The Duramax with an Allison trans (not to be picked just because I already have it).

Most desirable really means - I must think in terms of what might bring the most "Resale value" if I desire or need to sell. I'm in favor of a near correct "looking" short bed, 2 wheel drive, A/C equipped GM truck. I'm assuming short-bed over long, 2 wheel over 4 wheel would attract potentially more buyers.
I looked at the truck sales at the major auto auctions since 2004 (when light trucks started gaining popularity and price gains noticeable). In the end I could not ascertain the ideal truck assembly - however there seems to be some common denominators such as noted above.

 

[Grumpy]

Is the truck to be sold or used by you for several years?
and what would be the major use for such a truck while you own it?
now already owning that diesel is a huge financial advantage ,
but I think the LS or big block swap would bring more cash at sale.
you might want to sell the diesel drive train to help offset the purchase of the next engine.
the LS or big block swap would bring more cash at sale, but too two totally different markets and type of drivers ,
old school rodders will prefer the properly installed BBC by a wide margin,
many younger guys that want to drive the truck as transportation, an LS with an auto trans with OD.
in any case a really well done, almost factory installed appearing swap in an exceptionally clean truck with no obvious rust or problems, and working accessories and nice interior and external paint and chrome, will tend to bring good money.
my cousin sold a really clean 1955 chevy pick-up with a 454 bbc and a 4 speed muncie a few months ago for 15 k.
Besides having decent performance and a weight reduction, the LS, properly tuned and geared will achieve far better fuel mileage that a BBC on a carburetor generally will, but for old school gear heads those big chrome valve covers on a bbc is something they lust after.
Diesels are great for towing but unless you add a turbo they rarely get a second look from the performance crowd

 

[chromebumpers]

I don't want a trailer queen but rather a truck that will see non destructive uses - perhaps bringing the Christmas Tree home but not a cord of wood as an example. A fair weather cruiser, used but kept clean for the occasional showing.
I would offer it for sale from day one. While waiting for a buyer I can enjoy using the ride.

 

[chromebumpers]

So, use the diesel to save on the build cost but an LS for the mass appeal.

 

[grumpyvette]

So, use the diesel to save on the build cost but an LS for the mass appeal.

yeah! thats the short version, but Id still keep my eyes open for a great deal on a big block if the price is great!
a few years ago (early 2005) one of my friends had a 1970 chevy truck in good shape, little rust and a fairly new interior, that developed a bad rod bearing, his neighbor had a 1970 caddy elderado with a 500 cid v8
(400 hp/550 ft lbs for the 500 caddy ) vs 300hp and 380 tq listed for the 350 sbc
that got t-boned in a wreck, he purchased the car from the guy for $800 and pulled and reused the engine and transmission, in his truck, the engine swap was really not that difficult , so keep in mind you have options.
at the time my neighbor listed all the parts he needed to rebuild the 350 he had in his truck, then listed all the adapters drive shaft yokes engine mounts etc. and found that swapping to the caddy engine even at that $800 price was going to be similar in total cost and because he used the truck mostly to tow his boat, he thought the larger engine might be an advantage, after the swap he said it was one of the best choices he ever made the truck was far better for towing the boat

(picture I found posted on line of a 500 caddy engine)

 

[Strictly Attitude]

Ls or deisel will work both really popular right now

 

[Strictly Attitude]

Duramax is not cheaper at all needs head studs and injectors rebuilt to get a proper tune then the trans are the week spot in 4th or is it a 5 speed in that one? Plus the duramax has that huge rear end. Can do a ls swap a lot cheaper