GL prices tend to be higher than what the private market prices are. People will pay more for a unknown condition truck fro GL because they get caught up in the bidding frenzy. But they won't pay the same price for a truck that they can kick the tires on. Crazy I tell you.
That is what amazes me the most.
The other thing I've noticed is that there are a lot of people buying them and trying to flip them. I believe they see them on fleabay for 10k plus and think they can sell it for that. They don't do any market research and realize those trucks keep getting re-posted and don't sell for that. I saw a CL ad the other day where I guy was trying to just break even after buying two 5 tons and then they sat in his yard and now he needs the money he spent on buying them.
The deuce price is starting to settle as many are upgrading to 5 tons but the price will slowly keep rising as there are fewer out there and there will not be anymore entering the market in quantity. The best thing you can do is get with someone who knows the trucks well like Clinto. They can help you get something that is in good condition and at a fair price. Nothing worse then "getting a good deal" and then having to drop soo much $$$$$$$ into it that it costs you more in the long run.
As for 5 tons, I do see the prices coming down some in the future (private market) as people try to get out from under their investment and as trucks start breaking because the owners aren't performing proper maintenance. Also when the LE starts to sell them off because the can't afford to maintain or fuel them anymore. (and the ones who got them just to sell them)
But this is a niche market and as others have stated, the new toy (LMTV) is coming out.