So I bought my 2004 Excursion (2003 6.0) when I was making a comfortable six figure income. It was, "is" my dream car. (ok maybe I do fantasize about a 12v Cummings with 600 HP in the EX)

My current income requires that I do all the maintenance on the vehicle myself. Also as a family we are traveling full-time and this vehicle has stranded us several times. When I have to do the "home study course via the internet on how to be a diesel mechanic" it seriously takes away from my ability to grow the businesses I have. The first time I do something it takes forever. The second time is a breeze.

I am wondering what else may be in store for me with this truck? Going between getting rid of it (now that it is running again) and keeping it forever now that I know how to fix most things.

3 kids, a large dog and a 1973 31' Airstream make this the ideal vehicle.

I still owe about 7500. 126,000 miles. Limited Edition.

Here is the trucks history.

1. a majority of the injectors have been replaced. Several done in an RV campground
2. previous owner replaced HPOP cover
3. I have deleted EGR and have new oil cooler.
4. Have replaced steering box a year ago. [U]Feels sloppy again, after tightening it.
5. replaced front and rear shocks.
6. ICP and IPR replaced.
7. replaced #8 exhaust rocker arm. (sounded like the engine had blown)
8. new degas bottle and cap.
9.FICM seems to be fine.
10. stock exhaust, air filter, no tuner.
11. pulling codes etc with android Torque app via blue tooth OBD2
12. need towing mirrors
13. I think I had front left ball joint replaced.
14. Vacuum lines/pump has a leak and pump won't shut off. Haven't tackled this one yet
15. rear window is shattered and needs to be replaced.
16. passenger seat leather is cracked.
17. Just solved HPO leak no warm start by replacing injector seal after tearing everything apart again.
18. Blue fuel pressure spring upgrade done.

Open to suggestions

Steve

 

Do you monitor fuel pressure? What other parameters do you monitor (FICM voltages would be adviseable, so is boost, oil temp, and maybe EGT's and tranny temp).

An exhaust would be helpful when you tow.

Not sure what to tell you on the steering or the cracked leather ............

There is no way to predict reliability, but then again there is no reason why reliability in a 2003 6.0L engine should be that hard to achieve (unless it has been abused in its early life or it is just plain a rare problem child).

Is your Ex a 4x4??

 

Haven't really figured out the Torque app yet. It has been great to have a way to pull codes.

 

Yes 4x4. Trailer is only about 6,000 lbs. Currently I have the right set up and it tows effortlessly.

 

Check your 4x4 vacuum solenoid - it is a common source for the leak.

 

The original 03 injectors were really bad. So far mine has had everyone replaced before 127,000. My truck runs like a top and I love it. Now all the original injectors are gone I can relax. You have done almost everything to that motor. Its time to reap some benifits.

 

If you're making a "comfortable six figure income", there isn't any reason why you can't possibly afford to pay a mechanic for the upkeep of your dream ride (preferably one that is 6.0L savy).

As far as what to do next, how about a set of head studs? I'll be happy to help you out with that. I seem to be getting more than my share of 6.0L Excursion owners knocking on my doorstep in this last month.

 

You missed the one word, "I was making....."



I could guess he gets her back in shape, he will get back up there though!

 

remove the vacuum line to the pump when its running and stick you finger over the line see if the pump shuts off. if not you just need a new pump. iirc dorman has it for cheep.