When someone is trying to sell a used truck (~170k miles) with a 6.0 and they say in their ad "needs oil pump" how is that to be interpreted, i.e. is it "this truck really needs a new engine" or is it simply "needs a new oil pump"? What does one look out for in such a situation? TIA

 

It more than likely means it needs a HPOP.

If it's a 2003-2004 truck, the pump itself and the outlet tube need to be replaced.

If it's a 2005-2007 truck, either the STC failed and the truck won't start hot or the fitting completely failed, OR the dummy plugs are failing making it difficult to start the truck.

It's rare that the LPOP fails on these trucks unless one of the lifters grenaded and went through the LPOP destroying the engine.

 

Either repair will take time and isn't too terribly expensive.

The main thing is to make sure the truck doesn't have a base engine problem.

If you look on the passenger side of the engine near the hood lift strut, you'll see a skinny wire with a connector. Separate the connector and use the side closest to the front of the truck to touch the positive terminal on the passenger side battery. If the engine cranks evenly, it's worth pursuing; if the engine unevenly cranks, run unless you plan on replacing the engine.