Hello there 99-03 PSD forum! I have been loitering here away from my usual IDI section for a little while and had a couple questions that maybe some of you could answer for me.

I'm looking at picking up a 1999 F250 SD 7.3L Extended cab, long bed, AT, 2wd with 150k on the clock. The truck visually looks okay, only minor dents here and there. It has some minor mods already done such as pillar gauges, exhaust and a chip (zip tied to the fuel filter cover for some reason...).

I know the typical things to look for as my father owns a 96' F250 7.3PSD that I maintain as well as my own 91' F250 7.3 IDI turbo. Is there anything that I should keep an eye out for with the newer generation that I'm looking to invest in? I recalled something about a difference in parts/performance in the early 99's but I don't know for sure.

The only other thing is that every truck I've ever owned has been a manual...the 99' that I'm looking at is an automatic. Usually that fact would turn me away instantly, but I have heard good things about the later models. Any suggestions on that front? I've found that manuals in this model range are IMPOSSIBLE to find anyway.

Last thing...my buddies recommended finding a "virgin" truck, rather than one that has already had mods because the last owner probably ran the nuts out of it. Opinions on that statement?

Thanks for the help, this could be my new home if all the lights are green on it.

-Dave

 

About the AT... I too was looking for something similar to what you are looking for and after a few months of looking my son found the perfect truck for my needs. It had a manual 6 speed. It was worth the wait. Good condition MT trucks are out there. Mine was owned by a young lady that used it to haul her horses to shows and then it sat for 4 years while she was away to college. After college she had no need for it and that is when my son found it.
Good things come to those who wait.

 

Thanks for the excellent words of wisdom. It seemed like a good deal for $5000 (not including trade), but I'm in no hurry and might just keep looking.

-Dave

 

Last thing...my buddies recommended finding a "virgin" truck, rather than one that has already had mods because the last owner probably ran the nuts out of it. Opinions on that statement?

Not necessarly true, you can read my sig below and i very raley push my truck, from time to time have to kill a ram or crush a rock....other than that, she is treated like a baby