The older V-10s really are terrible for fuel mileage and power when pulling a heavy load. I have a 2001 and for cargo & car trailers it gets the job done admirably. In 2002, I pulled a 10,000 lb toyhauler a couple times up I-81 into NY and she really had to work. That's why I went to the PowerStroke in 2003. If you don't mind slow and steady and the fuel consumption, then you'll do fine until the finances can handle the burden of an upgrade.