Questions a 99 GMC with a 6.5 Diesel

[Sub-versive]

I am looking for a diesel truck for my DD. Having owned a number of small and big block chevy's, I am down right tired of the lousy mileage. The 8mpg I got from my 454 powered '77 Sub is just too painful. The 10mpg from the 427 powered '76 LWB 4x4 wasn't much better. I had an extended cab Ranger as my DD until I got t-boned. After that experience, I decided no more small trucks, I need full size and more metal. In looking for something to fit the bill, most folks think their used "newer" high mileage trucks are made of gold.

In my quest I have come across a 99 with a 6.5 diesel. I know that the desired block castings are for May 99-on. What do I need to be aware of with year truck with this type of engine?
I have never owned a diesel before, I have driven them for work, but I have never owned or wrenched on one personally. I have been searching the forum recently and am aware of the boat anchor comments, sure I would love an LBZ powered truck or any duramax engine, but for what I'm getting from insurance, that is not in the cards. While I would love to do a swap into a 71 or 72 4x4 Suburban, it's a little tough with use of one arm right now.

What do I need to look for in buying a used 1999 GM diesel truck?

*I should also ask about the 95ish 6.5L Suburbans, any input or sage advice?

[Sub-versive]

I suppose it would have been wiser to ask a general question about buying used diesels in General Discussion. I'll give it a couple of days, then ask a mod to move this or something.
I know, I can't help my impatience sometimes.
I am getting stir crazy in this house. My insurance covers a rental, but I am in no shape to drive right now. So I spend a good chunk of time looking at classifieds, craigslist, and here. I apologize for rambling.

[Boog]

You're stir crazyness is completely understandable. This board doesn't get much action sometimes but I'm sure one of the diesel owners will pop in with some wisdom for you before long. Hope your recovery is good and speedy.
As you might expect you will find some who think the 6.5 diesel is absolutely the best thing since sliced bread and then some will tell you about how they've had nothing but trouble out of their's, worthless piece of iron and never own another one. In the interest of getting you some info on diesels quickly I'll point you to this diesel site.

http://www.dieselplace.com/forum/forumdisplay.php?f=21

[Sub-versive]

Thank you for the link.

[Sub-versive]

You know even after tons of reading, I don't know enough about diesels to feel comfortable buying one used. I don't know anyone knowledgeable enough either. So I think I'll say eff it, 'cause I really need not to worry about it breaking down on me right now. I still want one, but when I know more and have more time to invest in it. So I'm eyeballing some nice gas trucks, at least they're small blocks.
Good news though, doc says I'm healing nicely, I start physical therapy next week. Woo-hoo. I'm pushing hard to get back to full use before 12 weeks.

[Boog]

Yeah some guys buy a diesel truck more for the novelty than anything else. I also have looked hard at buying one myself but mostly for the towing ability of it. We only have a camper to tow occasionally so I really cannot justify buying the diesel and drive it everyday. There are pros and cons to both gas and diesels. When a diesel breaks down it can cost plenty for repairs and the constant higher cost of fuel makes it undiserable too. Now if you tow/haul a lot it's just the thing as you would be burning a lot of gas trying to do the same job and the diesel engine will/can last a lot longer.
Good news on the recovery.