Another member just started a thread about picking a newtruck and I didn’t want to hijack that one. I was curious about the use of a 1994-1997 F250 7.3L PSD truck fors emi-daily use. I have a 1978 F250 4X4 (351W/GT40heads/NP435) that I run around with on the weekends. The truck runs great, is in really goodcondition (no rust) and I really like the simple, minimalist interior, however,I am planning on doing a bit of travel in the future and will be towing amotorcycle trailer (14x7) to NC, Lake George, maybe even the southwest. I'm sure the '78 would have no troublepulling that load, but it is not necessarily girlfriend-friendly over longhauls. No A/C, loud exhaust, road noise,no carpeting. A true workhorse for sure, but not something to drive down to the Smoky Mountains in from New Jersey.

So I was wondering if there anything to look out for onthese 1994-1997 trucks? I've read thatthe manual trans (my first choice anyway) is better, but are the automatics unreliable? The manuals seem harder to come by. I’ve also seen the price rangefrom $6000 - $23,000 . I would probably keep this truck for a long while, so I’d be willing to pay more for a lower mileage truck. I’ve read that these diesels easily run for 300,000+ miles. Is that true? And how about daily-use reliability? I know the 1999-2003 trucks made more power, but I prefer the 'boxy' look of the older trucks.

Thanks for any feedback!

 

Hi,

This should be in the 7.3 Powerstroke section.

But I can answer some of you questions.
I have a 97 7.3 5 speed extended cab 2 WD

The automatics have a higher failure rate for sure. But check history, ect. Also check the fluid is it burnt, etc. If it has been rebuilt, does it have receipts and has it been upgraded. I hear 4 k to do a proper rebuild. I like the stick.

My truck has 247 k.many out there well over 300 k.

Prices are on the high side compared to a gas truck. But worth it IMO.

I would be more concerned with getting a solid truck than I would be about mileage. But history and maintenance all come into it.

There are a lot of knowledgeable people on the diesel forum.

Good luck,

Joe W

 

Thanks Joe! I just posted the same info over on the 7.3L Diesel board.