Hi guys, so I need some advice on the purchase of a truck I finally found that I like..
here are the details-1999 f-350 4x4 auto xlt lb cc diesel with 200k. It has a 6 inch lift with 37" tires. Tires have ok tread left, the turbo was replaced a while back, more than a year, with a bigger turbo, faster spools and what not, (dont know if replacement was because it failed or what) also has a built tranny with under 20k miles, supposedly it cost around $7k for the rebuild-is that possible?? the rear end was also rebuilt a few months ago, but recently went in for warrenty repair. I dont know what the gearing is. All u-joints/balljoints and the like have been replaced within the last year. Has air bags. Has Pillar gauges. No rips or tears on interior, extirior has a few small dings, the tail gate is mashed up, would need to be replaced. I havent personally seen the truck yet, only a picture of it towing a big *** boat. It sounds like an older adult owner. I havent seen it because its a few hours away from me, so if I go, I go to bring it home!
Ive owned a few 6.0, but never a 7.3. I know generally what to look at for blow by, or leaks and what not. Being that its lifted and has rear air bags, what should I look at suspension wise. Ill obviously be able to tell if the ball joints have been replaced!
He was asking close to 9k, got it down to 7500. Its under blue book by a few grand, but do you guys think this is a good deal?

 

With that size of tires I would jack the front end off the ground and check the unit bearings. Large tires tend to tear them up. You can expect about $800-$1000 to replace them if you do the work.

Being that it was used to pull a big boat, you should really look it over close. It is probably fine, but just to be safe.

$7k for a transmission, sure it is possible especially if he had billet shafts installed, or he just got overcharged!

You will be the only one that can say if it is worth it or not. Sounds like a fair price though.

 

Im going to try and go this week sometime, hopefully Itll be in good shape, and Ill get to own my first 7.3!
Over the phone, the guy sounds like hes taken good care of the truck, doesnt seem like he beat it to death! I deginatelly will bring a fine toothed comb when I go see it though!!

 

You might want to ask him to produce any documentation he has for the work that he has had done.

 

Yeah he supposedly has all documentation for everything...hopefully this will be a winner. I'm excited but don't want to get ahead of myself!!

 

I am not much for big lifts on these trucks. The wear factor just accelerates to fa$$$t for me, not to mention it is going to suck towing anything reasonably heavy with 3:73 gears and 37" tires. If you are not going to tow much it should be fun but don`t expect milage unless you change the gearing. Good luck,Roy.