I am the original owner of a 02 F 250 4x4 V10 3.73 gears with 217,000 miles. The truck runs great with no major problems to date. Other than a few new batteries, new coils and plugs, I have not replaced anything else on the engine.

I just bought a new 26' TT which weighs 4100 lbs empty and would like to know from other V 10 owners if they would feel secure about the reliability of a truck with this many miles towing a travel trailer cross country? My original intent was to tow the TT with the wife's new Tahoe but after a few short trips through the Texas Hill Country the Tahoe seemed to be straining up hill.

I would like to get at least 2 more years (approx. 20,000 miles) before investing in a new F 250. If I were to keep the truck, what modifications, parts changes, etc., should I perform to make it more reliable? Since I have a company truck for daily driving, the F 250 would be used exclusively for towing the TT.

 

Timing chain set and I would not be afraid of it.

 

Thanks! I haven't heard anyone mention the timing chain and gears but it makes sense. If I were not towing a trailer, I would trust it to go anywhere as it sits. Been buying new trucks since 79 and this by far is the best truck I have owned.

 

Some will not agree but I have replaced them where they should have been replaced far earlier. An engine will be ruined by a failure in this area. Plastic chain guides shavings get into the oil pump pickup as well. Waiting for them to make flapping noise is too long.

 

At what mileage would you recommend a timing chain set?

I've got about 180,000 on mine and it runs well, when all the coils are working.

My preventive maintenance coil change and fuel pump replacement did not go well, so I'm leery of PM on this thing.

 

I think a timing chain set on a mod motor with under 300K is a little premature. If it is running good now, do some fluid and filter changes and put some new motorcraft plugs in it and go enjoy that new camper!!

 

I listened to the timing chain area of the engine with a stethoscope and have not heard any unusual noises. What about radiator hose? I still have the originals and they seem fine. I have read here of one owner that has over 200,000 miles and still has his originals.

 

Hoses may be good for 400K miles. So when you do go with replacements you know the dealership hoses are the best. Do not use anything less than Gates but they make them better for OEM.

 

Yep, change out the boxes and all hoses, plus radiator and brake fluid flush, power steering; good for another 100k easy.