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Feb 25, 2003 | 03:31 PM

79_250RangerLariat

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Need some Input

Hey guys I was wondering what some of your opinions might be. I'm getting ready to go look at a work truck. 88 F250 XLT Lariat, ex cab. 7.3 diesel

auto 3.55's w/limit slip. The body is supsose to be perfect, no dents rust, etc. Only 96k on the clock. I'd love to have a Power Stroke but the $$ is the only problem. Is there anything inparticular I should look at with the 88 7.3? Any down falls?

Thanks!

Feb 25, 2003 | 03:39 PM

DCSpecial

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From: IL, USA

Need some Input

FWIW,,,We have a '91 7.3 with over 200K on the clock and have yet to have any problems with the motor and it still runs great. Only work that we have done to it is routine maintenance.

Feb 25, 2003 | 04:40 PM

alanscott

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From: Western Colorado USA

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The PSD was not introduced until mid 94'. Unless someone took the time and money to install a PSD in that truck, they are either mistaken or trying to hose you.

Feb 25, 2003 | 05:24 PM

79_250RangerLariat

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Need some Input

Sorry, The way I wrote it must have been mistaking. I would love to have a Powerstroke, but due to the $$ of one I'm possibly going to settle for an IDI 7.3 Atleast for my work truck

Feb 25, 2003 | 08:14 PM

bilder12

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From: Northeastern Pa - USA

Need some Input

The 88 7.3 is a great engine for a truck. The automatic trans is probably a C-6, 3 speed automatic. I dont know what kind of work you are going to do, but if you are going to be pulling a trailer with a bobcat or something like that, the 355 is the wrong gearig for towing any weight.
I have 88 turbocharged 7.3 I am trying to sell with the c-6 and a gear vendor overdrive unit. That system worked well for me pulling a 35 foot 5th wheel camper. I had lots of power to get it rolling and then able to upshift in 3rd gear to get an overdrive ratio.
Be sure to use fuel additive (stanadine) each time you refuel to keep the injection pump lubricated properly. The new diesel fuel has the sulfur content cut back to meet emissions and it was the sulfur that lubed the pump.

Feb 25, 2003 | 08:21 PM

bilder12

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From: Northeastern Pa - USA

Need some Input

Damn! Almost forgot to mention cavitation erosion. This happens to all diesel engines. There is an additive you can use from NAPA, Caterpillar, INternational. They all have it. Add it to the coolant. Look the buggy over good and make sure it isnt suffering from cavitation. You can check the oil for moisture, it will show up on the filler cap or in the cdr valve area. The water in the oil will look like milk.
Good luck.

Feb 25, 2003 | 09:32 PM

tediesel

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From: Western PA

Need some Input

If you called him this afternoon twice and it's two-tone brown with 2 new tires and new Rancho RS5000 shocks, you should offer him more than he's asking. I know him, he's a nice guy.

P.S. Look at my signature, I think it's mine.

Feel free to ask any questions you want.