3406B or N14??

Get both

 

I'd pick the truck that's in better shape and that suits my needs. You honestly can't really go wrong with either engine. They're both a better choice than today's emission engines. I'd prefer the 13 speed to the 15 though.

 

I have 1991 379 ext hood with a 3406b. I have 2 million miles on it and it has not been rebuilt (so Ive been told by previous owners).
I have a split 10 with 5 extra low gears. I have not had any trouble for the 3 years Ive owned it. However, it is an expensive engine to maintain. Im not going to Pete or KW as Im not familiar at all with the other truck. Good luck.

 

I agree on the 13 over 15 but the 15's I have been around have been near bulletproof compared to 13 or 18. Running local like a dump or lowboy moving equip or such I would prefer the 15.

 

Got to add one thing to this. If a guy doesn't have much experience turning wrenches and runs all over he should stay away from a b model. Not that there is anything wrong with a b model, but every engine will need work eventually and there just aren't a lot of guys still working that are familiar with a mechanical engine. When 1500 miles from home, if you can't fix it yourself you want an engine that's still common.
I still see n14s everyday. But b models maybe once a month.

 

Very good advice Spyder and I am a die hard b or c mechanical only guy but I do 95% of my own wrenching and carry the one shop manuals and a few phone numbers of old timers with me. Hp settings being set somewhat equal so will the mpg. Cat will have more torque. 13speed will have more road friendly drivability and likely a slight mpg advantage on a highway truck. Both engines well proven and more wallet friendly than any of the late model stuff I have been around.

 

Both are good engines but i would pick the truck with the n14. Just seems like a better set up plus the sound of a n14 at idle is sweet. Is the n14 a black top or red top?