Hello, Nube here in the Excursion world. I have always wanted one and have been looking pretty hard, but the budget is only going to allow something with 150K+ miles. I've read a little on potential tranny issues, but what do I need to be looking at or asking questions about when assessing potential purchases? I know with proper maintenance there's lots of life in the 7.3, but are there ways to assess the motors health that don't cost a lot of time and money? Also, what other costly parts/systems tend to fail around the 150K mark? Just want to establish what my total cost of a solid, good-to-go another 100K+ rig might be. Any suggestions would be appreciated!!


Thanks

 

On my 7.3 the turbo took a dump at 75K ( thankfull it was in warranty). A total frontend rebuild @ around 2K give or take & a redo of the crappy suspension @ around $1500, Trannys go from 75,000 to 200,000 miles so that is a crap shoot and last but not least, upgraded brakes & lines another $1000.00 & up.


WELCOME to the World of XXX's Please add your lo-cal to the profile

 

I'm going to be envious if you can get your hands on a clean Excursion with ~150k only on the 7.3

Yes, you can read all day long regarding the 4R100, which I guess can be consider a "weak link" of the 1999-2002 line-up.

When buying, how many owners + are records available would be important to me.

Anyhow, it appears you're new to the 7.3, so I'd recommend finding someone (i.e. diesel expert) to comb-over the truck before finalizing the deal- this way, you know a $$$ ballpark of what it's going to take just to get her healthy.

7.3 Buying Guide here and you may also find this search and this 7.3 general info thread helpful.

Best of luck

 

Thanks for the replies! Very helpful comments and info.

 

Took me almost 3 years to find the one that I wanted. You also didn't list whether 4wd or 2wd..that will also add to the price so keep that in mind. Turbo, Tranny, and front end work are the bad boys that sneak up on you. Not to mention if you decide you want more power...then you can really get ready to open up your wallet!!

 

Thanks for adding the location You'll need to watch out for rust up there, at best you looking for a 14 Y/O truck

 

Also make sure you take a look at the 7.3 potion of FTE. It's amazing what those guys know.

When looking at a diesel truck, try and do so while it's cold. If the seller has it warmed up for you when you arrive, leave and come back when it's cold. Diesels love to hide issues when warmed up.
Check each fluid for presence of other fluids. For example, smell the coolant checking for a diesel smell. Look for oily residue. Fluids mixing can mean different things than they do on a gasser.
Good luck and post your findings here if you'd like us to help you evaluate them.