I have a 34' Safari Sahara RV that has a 94 Cummins 5.9 B-Series (230hp and 610ft. lbs. torque). I am in the process of building a salvage Big truck and would like some insight on the best engine (easy to work on, least expensive, and reliable). I work on my Cummins 5.9 and love the simplicity. No electronics. I also run Vegetable oil (not biodiesel) and the Cummins loves it. But I have heard many things that are good about Detroits, like HP wise and reliability.

What year and model of Cummins or Detroit is the best for HP upgrades also. I am looking for an engine pre 2000 since any newer does not do well with running vegetable oil. Plus not to fond of computerized engines.

I hear Cats are too expensive, so I would rather stay away. No offense to Cats, just spend to much as it is .