I currently own a 1990 250 ext cab with a 351 auto, I'm looking at a 1989 Reg cab non turbo 7.3. 5 spd. Is it worth a trade to a non turbo ?????

 

Given equal condition theres no question the diesel is better, but you asked in the diesel forum so what answer were you expecting? Especially in a 3/4 ton! The best description anyone here has used regarding the 351 is that it "pulls like a 302 and sucks gas like a 460" what do you get for mileage anyway? Most of us get 15 to 18 mpg, some are doing better but that 15 ish is no problem for just about anyone. That 7.3 will pull the axles out from under a 351, put a turbo on it someday and you'll out-run it too.

 

how do you use your truck?

 

Within 75 miles , pulling a goose neck cattle trailer. within 3 or so miles hauling round bales on a goose neck 1 per cent on the interstate. Do ing farm work.

 

trade trucks.you'll be pleased.

 

I have a 90 7.3 F350 with an ATS turbo, and an 89 F150 with the 351. Both have automatic transmissions and extended cabs. I live at almost 9000 feet in the Colorado Rockies. The 7.3 diesel is far superior in both pulling a load and fuel economy. The diesel averages around 16 MPG where the 351 will average around 11 MPG. With what you are hauling, I think you would be very happy with the diesel truck trade.

 

Just for grins; go ask the guys in the small block forum. See what they say...

 

As subtle as a handgrenade aint ya?

 

Stock for stock, I'd pick the 7.3. I personally think the 351 will pull harder, but you're running at higher rpms to do so, and mileage will suffer. The 7.3 will lug along all day and not break a sweat.

There's nothing wrong with the Windsor and there is lots of potential for horsepower and useable torque with them. But you will never get the fuel mileage that you can with the diesel.

Jason

 

And the 7.3 will outlive the 351 by a long shot in pulling conditions......

 

7.3 will also outpower the 351 in the long run....

 

Loaded with the diesel you will see the same mileage as empty with the 351, and the torque is way lower.

 

x2 with what Ford_Six is saying....

 

Peak for peak, the horsepower is higher in the 351, but unless you spend all your time over 4000 RPM its not going to feel that way.

If diesel wasn't an option, I simply wouldn't be driving a 3/4 ton pickup. Even the cost of LPG is such that its not worth burning anymore.

 

Thanks guys, I like those 94.half 95,96,97. I have a long '' I wanna '' list, to go with my 40% pay cut.