Oops, show's I can't read huh? I really don't know how well it can handle, but I would look around your job sites that can be muddy and see what you're fellow co-workers manage to show up in....

That oversight on my part aside the Ford ranger/Mazda pickup (same thing) are very well engineered. I have 165k on my '95 and it still does not burn a drop of oil after 6,000 mile oil change interval's with Mobil 1 synthetic. The only thing I've had to replace on the truck has been tires and a clutch. A few things are a bit over due at the moment but they can hardly be attributed to ford (things like shocks, plugs, etc).

As far as comfort goes... the seats are pretty comfortable, but the ride is a little harsh. If you manage to keep something heavy in the bed its nice and smooth though (all pickups no?)

G'luck in you're search, hopefully you will be able to get that diesel liberty!