I have a 1994 f350 5.8 and need some opinions on either rebuild the 5.8 or get a 7.3 to replace it and rebuild that. The 5.8 works great but I would like some more power and I just like diesels. I know if I go with the 7.3 I'd need the transmission from it too and new fuel lines or clean them very good so I've been told, but what else would I have to possibly replace if I do upgrade to the 7.3??

Also rough cost estimated difference between rebuilding 5.8 and upgrading to 7.3 and rebuild

 

i would look for a wrecked or rotted out 92 to 97 diesel truck to use as a donor vehicle. this way you will have everything you will need to do the swap, and then whatever is left over you can sell to recoup some of the cost of doing the swap.

 

since there's no shortage of these trucks (92-94 idi's or 94-97 psd's) i would simply sell your truck and buy the diesel one.you'll more than likely come out ahead anyway.

 

The only problem with that is finding one in the condition of mine with everything I want where I live. To get one it's no less than 12k and that's 200k + miles on it. So doing it that way I'm in the truck for around 12k and that's not including rebuilding the engine, and possible body and paint work and if it doesn't have a lift I'd have to get that too.

 

How long do you plan on keeping the truck? If it's a "forever" truck, I would look at going IDIT. No computer (unless you have the auto), straight forward mechanicals, good power and economy. You can build up a pretty stout 5.8, but more power means more fuel and the 5.8 in a heavy truck is already at a disadvantage in that regard. I had a friend with the 5.8 in a '95 250, his fuel mileage (he claimed 11, maybe 12 if lucky) is what my 250 gets hauling heavy.

 

looking forward to build thread.we'll cheer ya on.take lots of pics.