Jesse,
I have no particular brand loyalty. I don't suffer from any sort of marketing hype. The GMC has a short bed and the Lance camper would be a better fit in an 8' bed. The duramax had the turbo blow last month, $3,200.00 + with only 98,000 miles on the truck. Both rear axle seals have had to be replaced, the first requiring an entire rear wheel brake job. Something else involving oil in the front went out costing about 3 grand. Even after the turbo fix at a dealer in Santa Fe, I had to stop and get the coolant flushed and now I notice I have a leak from the oil pan.
I spent the longest week of my life riding in a F-250 hunting up in Wyoming. I swear I had more dental problems after that week then in my entire life. No Ford has ever made it to camp on the first try without stopping for something. You can get to our camp in a Prius. Well assuming it doesn't snow or rain hard.
My Fish & Game clients love the dodges as they are mostly broke and in the shop and they have more time with their families. We are talking government maintanence here and our tax dollars are no object.
I would put the duramax under the camper and leave it there if something else could fill my needs. My instincts are go big or stay at home. I don't have a daily driver. I only occasionaly go into town, say once a week. However, I do go hunting, fishing and boating whenever I can.
Currently I think I should buy a tractor or at least a back-hoe. I am keeping my eyes open for something for you to build. if you should stumble upon something, don't hesitate to pull my chain.
Thanks, Steve