Diesel envy
Senior User
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 106
Likes: 0
I'll stir the pot
There isn't anything wrong with the 5.4L....no I wouldn't tow 12k with it....but I live in the Mts. of Colorado and tow 5-7k 6 times per year.....and when I tow I wish I had a diesel...but when I don't tow I am happy. No this truck w/ a 5.4 isn't going to light up the tires or break any land speed records...but it is quite capable of getting you around and towing when you need to.
You said it yourself.....you don't need the diesel, you just want it. If you want it and can afford it, go friggin get it. But don't knock the 5.4 for what doing what it was intended to do....move a truck down the road w/ occassional towing. Mine has been great.....
Ok...bash me.
There isn't anything wrong with the 5.4L....no I wouldn't tow 12k with it....but I live in the Mts. of Colorado and tow 5-7k 6 times per year.....and when I tow I wish I had a diesel...but when I don't tow I am happy. No this truck w/ a 5.4 isn't going to light up the tires or break any land speed records...but it is quite capable of getting you around and towing when you need to.
You said it yourself.....you don't need the diesel, you just want it. If you want it and can afford it, go friggin get it. But don't knock the 5.4 for what doing what it was intended to do....move a truck down the road w/ occassional towing. Mine has been great.....
Ok...bash me.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 716
Likes: 0
From: memphis
I'm was in the same boat as you 99% empty 1% a f150 could do the job,
But I wanted to try a diesel. I drive around 100 a day so i needed something
that would take lots of miles and keep going strong. I choose a a 2000
PSD 7.3 with 130K, because that was the best yr/mileage combo for the amount of money i wanted to spend. ~30K miles later i'm loving every minute. I have a 25mpg car that rarely gets driven.
My trucks get 17-18 on the highway, consider that 18 mpg(PSD) is over 20% better than 14 mpg (V10). Diesel is not 20% higher that gas(20% of $2.00 is 40 cents).
When i was looking I found many 99-2001 with 200-300K miles and all ran great.
I did the tank mod and the HPX less than $100 and WOW, smooth and quite as a v10.
Not knocking the gasser, i've had both chevy and dodge 2500. neither came close to this truck in the Big ,nice truck, feel, ride and sound.
If you have buds/family that likes to hit the road you can't beat the CC for space.
Diesels are not hard to start, they start different, you must wait for a second before you turn the starter.
But I wanted to try a diesel. I drive around 100 a day so i needed something
that would take lots of miles and keep going strong. I choose a a 2000
PSD 7.3 with 130K, because that was the best yr/mileage combo for the amount of money i wanted to spend. ~30K miles later i'm loving every minute. I have a 25mpg car that rarely gets driven.
My trucks get 17-18 on the highway, consider that 18 mpg(PSD) is over 20% better than 14 mpg (V10). Diesel is not 20% higher that gas(20% of $2.00 is 40 cents).
When i was looking I found many 99-2001 with 200-300K miles and all ran great.
I did the tank mod and the HPX less than $100 and WOW, smooth and quite as a v10.
Not knocking the gasser, i've had both chevy and dodge 2500. neither came close to this truck in the Big ,nice truck, feel, ride and sound.
If you have buds/family that likes to hit the road you can't beat the CC for space.
Diesels are not hard to start, they start different, you must wait for a second before you turn the starter.
Last edited by hott-rodd; Feb 14, 2006 at 03:22 PM.
Freshman User
Joined: Jun 2003
Posts: 35
Likes: 0
From: Colorado Springs, Co
Buy the diesel, you already made up your mind, there are more of them out there than
V10's or V8's. Don't know where people keep getting their info on the gas mileage of the V10, gas hog, but it is usually 1 mile less than the V8 highway or city driving, towing mileage is better than the V8. Plug issue is a none issue, 99 was the problem year. Good luck with the diesel.
V10's or V8's. Don't know where people keep getting their info on the gas mileage of the V10, gas hog, but it is usually 1 mile less than the V8 highway or city driving, towing mileage is better than the V8. Plug issue is a none issue, 99 was the problem year. Good luck with the diesel.
Senior User
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 231
Likes: 0
From: OUTER BANKS NC
Originally Posted by mike415
Buy the diesel, you already made up your mind, there are more of them out there than
V10's or V8's. Don't know where people keep getting their info on the gas mileage of the V10, gas hog, but it is usually 1 mile less than the V8 highway or city driving, towing mileage is better than the V8. Plug issue is a none issue, 99 was the problem year. Good luck with the diesel.
V10's or V8's. Don't know where people keep getting their info on the gas mileage of the V10, gas hog, but it is usually 1 mile less than the V8 highway or city driving, towing mileage is better than the V8. Plug issue is a none issue, 99 was the problem year. Good luck with the diesel.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,719
Likes: 1
From: PA
I bought the 5.4 in my f250 4X4 and have never regretted it. 260 hp may not seem like a lot, (and it isn't by today's standards) but that is 30hp more than the 460 in the previous gen truck. I have 4:10's and I manage 14-15 ish mpg with 33" tires. My old I6 only managed 17 or so in a much lighter truck.
As for power, mine doesn't seem underpowered at all. I have no trouble burning the tires (and really burning them, not just a chirp) and it will walk all over my friend's 99 PSD, when both are empty.
I have multiple friends with superduties: there are 6 of us.
4 have the 5.4
1 has the V10
1 has the psd
all are happy with their truck.
As for power, mine doesn't seem underpowered at all. I have no trouble burning the tires (and really burning them, not just a chirp) and it will walk all over my friend's 99 PSD, when both are empty.
I have multiple friends with superduties: there are 6 of us.
4 have the 5.4
1 has the V10
1 has the psd
all are happy with their truck.
Postmaster
Joined: Apr 2005
Posts: 2,759
Likes: 0
From: round rock, tx
Originally Posted by terrapin88
Hi all. Let me start by saying this site is an awsome resource for someone like me looking to buy their first Ford truck. I've been like a dry sponge soaking up all the info I can for the last 2 weeks on here. I'm at the point now where I need some guidance to help with my decision on what to get.
Some quick background on me and my driving habits first. I currently have a dying 89 Sierra K1500 with the 350.
I don't tow or plow, nor do I plan to other than maybe towing a uhaul trailer from the northeast to the southwest if we do decide to move. I might throw a motorcycle in the bed or use it to pick up lumber or whatever on Home Depot runs, or the occasional load of firewood. Basically this will be a daily driver. I have a work truck that I take home so I won't be using it for real work or commuting to and from
work either. I'd use the truck mostly just for transportation and weekend travelling.
I'm looking at 4WD 00-03 250 SD's in either standard cab/longbed or supercab/shortbed, manual or auto. The most trouble I'm having here is deciding gas or diesel, and if gas which motor? I had the use of a 2WD 250 SD PSD for a week while visiting relatives in TX and I liked it. From the reading I've done on reviews and forums I think I have some of the pro's and cons for me anyway covered:
Diesel-
Pros:
1. long service life (with proper maintenance)
2. same or better power as V10
3. lots of aftermarket power boosting doodads I ever wanted to go that route.
4. Better fuel mileage than v8 or v10
5. That diesel sound and the sheer grin factor that comes with it when you hit the throttle.
6. resale value
Cons:
1. Diesel costs a few cents more at the pump right now.
2. maintenance costs.
3. cost of parts and repairs (can't just take it to my local mechanic, right?)
4. Problems starting in cold weather?
5. Can I work on these myself?
6. Costs more to buy than an identical truck with a gas motor.
Gas Motors:
Pros:
1. I've had them all my life and understand them.
2. Cheaper to maintain (V8)
3. cheaper to repair (V8)
4. Cost less to buy than a PSD truck
5. can sound nice with relatively inexpensive dual exhaust and quality performance mufflers. (V8) (V10)?
Cons:
1. 5.4 is underpowered relative to the weight and size of a 250 SD. (or so I've readmore than a few times)
2. V10 has the power but is very thirsty.
3. The V10 from what I've read just doesn't sound "right" even with aftermarket exhaust.
4. V10 has to be more expensive to repair
5. I want a diesel.
6. Engine longevity when compared to a diesel
(with proper maintenance)
7. The whole popping plugs problem scares me and is something I would rather not have to worry about.
With me, cost is always an important factor. Whether it's initial purchase cost or maintenance/repair/operating costs. I need to get the most bang for my buck. I am leaning towards the PSD because it seems like I can get the same power as the V10 without worrying about popping a plug and while enjoying better fuel economy. Also with the less than average amount of miles I put on my truck per year it should last me quite awhile after I pay it off. Trade in/sale value seems higher than on a gas truck too. Of course I'm factoring in the coolness factor of a PSD (at least for me) over a gas motor a little. =)
On the other hand, if not for the popping plugs the gas motor may make more sense for me. Of couse I'd be hard pressed to opt for the 5.4 given what I've read performance wise, which would leave only the gas hog V10 which I could deal with around town but I'm going to want to get out on the highway on weekend getaways and factoring a big fuel bill into the fun budget doesn't appeal to me.
I've never driven the 5.4 or v10 so I can only go on what I've read here and in consumer review posts I've found. I may well be wrong as far as the 5.4 is concerned, but 260HP doesn't seem like a whole lot considering the weight and size of the vehicle.
I know this is alot to chew on but I'll gladly accept any fact based opinions or experience anyone can offer. See a flaw in my logic? Please let me know.
When the weather clears I'll be test driving all three types of motors before I buy, but I can use any assistance as I need to stop flipflopping between gas/diesel and focus my time on looking for my next new to me truck.
Thanks!
Chris-
Some quick background on me and my driving habits first. I currently have a dying 89 Sierra K1500 with the 350.
I don't tow or plow, nor do I plan to other than maybe towing a uhaul trailer from the northeast to the southwest if we do decide to move. I might throw a motorcycle in the bed or use it to pick up lumber or whatever on Home Depot runs, or the occasional load of firewood. Basically this will be a daily driver. I have a work truck that I take home so I won't be using it for real work or commuting to and from
work either. I'd use the truck mostly just for transportation and weekend travelling.
I'm looking at 4WD 00-03 250 SD's in either standard cab/longbed or supercab/shortbed, manual or auto. The most trouble I'm having here is deciding gas or diesel, and if gas which motor? I had the use of a 2WD 250 SD PSD for a week while visiting relatives in TX and I liked it. From the reading I've done on reviews and forums I think I have some of the pro's and cons for me anyway covered:
Diesel-
Pros:
1. long service life (with proper maintenance)
2. same or better power as V10
3. lots of aftermarket power boosting doodads I ever wanted to go that route.
4. Better fuel mileage than v8 or v10
5. That diesel sound and the sheer grin factor that comes with it when you hit the throttle.
6. resale value
Cons:
1. Diesel costs a few cents more at the pump right now.
2. maintenance costs.
3. cost of parts and repairs (can't just take it to my local mechanic, right?)
4. Problems starting in cold weather?
5. Can I work on these myself?
6. Costs more to buy than an identical truck with a gas motor.
Gas Motors:
Pros:
1. I've had them all my life and understand them.
2. Cheaper to maintain (V8)
3. cheaper to repair (V8)
4. Cost less to buy than a PSD truck
5. can sound nice with relatively inexpensive dual exhaust and quality performance mufflers. (V8) (V10)?
Cons:
1. 5.4 is underpowered relative to the weight and size of a 250 SD. (or so I've readmore than a few times)
2. V10 has the power but is very thirsty.
3. The V10 from what I've read just doesn't sound "right" even with aftermarket exhaust.
4. V10 has to be more expensive to repair
5. I want a diesel.
6. Engine longevity when compared to a diesel
(with proper maintenance)
7. The whole popping plugs problem scares me and is something I would rather not have to worry about.
With me, cost is always an important factor. Whether it's initial purchase cost or maintenance/repair/operating costs. I need to get the most bang for my buck. I am leaning towards the PSD because it seems like I can get the same power as the V10 without worrying about popping a plug and while enjoying better fuel economy. Also with the less than average amount of miles I put on my truck per year it should last me quite awhile after I pay it off. Trade in/sale value seems higher than on a gas truck too. Of course I'm factoring in the coolness factor of a PSD (at least for me) over a gas motor a little. =)
On the other hand, if not for the popping plugs the gas motor may make more sense for me. Of couse I'd be hard pressed to opt for the 5.4 given what I've read performance wise, which would leave only the gas hog V10 which I could deal with around town but I'm going to want to get out on the highway on weekend getaways and factoring a big fuel bill into the fun budget doesn't appeal to me.
I've never driven the 5.4 or v10 so I can only go on what I've read here and in consumer review posts I've found. I may well be wrong as far as the 5.4 is concerned, but 260HP doesn't seem like a whole lot considering the weight and size of the vehicle.
I know this is alot to chew on but I'll gladly accept any fact based opinions or experience anyone can offer. See a flaw in my logic? Please let me know.
When the weather clears I'll be test driving all three types of motors before I buy, but I can use any assistance as I need to stop flipflopping between gas/diesel and focus my time on looking for my next new to me truck.
Thanks!
Chris-
I would say get as much input about a Ford truck and go buy one soon
I have never looked back
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14,582
Likes: 12
From: 21791
Originally Posted by terrapin88
Do I need an f250 SD PSD? No. I really don't need an F250 period, but I work hard for my sheckles and damnit I want one. I have an almost stock 98 vette convert that'll supposedly do 180mph. Do I need a car that goes that fast? No, but I have it 'cause it can and I enjoy driving it. Not to mention it sounds too nasty with the stainless borla exhaust on it when I take it through the gears, sometimes all 6. 
Anyway, even though I really don't need the PSD, I'm pretty sure I'll end up getting one.
Anyway, even though I really don't need the PSD, I'm pretty sure I'll end up getting one.
one thing i would like to warn you about though, is that you will get PMS (Powerstroke Mod Syndrome) if you do buy a PSD and hang around here. i bought my truck thinking i would leave it stock except for a leveling kit. $4000 later here i am, and i am about to drop some more money into it. too bad i dont have it yet.
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Tuned
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 499
Likes: 0
From: Brew City, USA New Berlin
i bought my truck thinking i would leave it stock except for a leveling kit. $4000 later here i am,
Ditto for me.. I bought the superduty with everything in it thinking there would be nothing else I'd want...
lol...
Shoulda never come to F-T-E y'all are bad influences!!!!
Only gauges and bigger tires so far... But the list is growing!
Mountain Pass
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 224
Likes: 0
From: Pulaski, NY
I was in a similar situation as Terrapin88: wanted a diesel and tried to justify spending less money on a gas motor. I don't tow a lot (maybe once a month), but when I do, it's for a long haul and usually around 6000 lbs. I like knowing I am going to make it up the hill, so I don't think it's worth the stress of towing with a gas powered truck when you think you're pushing the max on the vehicle, especially when trying to get on the freeway. There's also the little things that I didn't consider - pulling stuck vehicles out of ditches is very easy with the PSD (I do a lot of that here in upstate NY during the winter), the bed full of engine parts (put my one ton on the overload springs), but some of the negatives I didn't consider was the difficulty of parking such a large truck (crew cab long bed) or driving on some of these narrow streets with a dually, to name a few things.
What I recommend is using Ebay and Carfax. In particular, look for a truck from Texas. I discovered that Texas trucks are cheaper (because there are so many?), and once I found a few I liked, I bought the $30 Carfax subscription (30 days) and ran the numbers. I found my truck (see gallery) for $12K delivered (KBB at the time was $16K). It had 101 thousand miles, and the Carfax report was so detailed, it listed everything, right down to the oil changes perfomed at the dealer every 3000 miles, all the TSB upgrades, etc. There was enough information that I decided to take the gamble (after talking to the Better Business Bureau about the dealer that had the truck). I know that I might have just found a jewel, but I am pretty sure there is plenty of opportunity - just keep looking for what you want, and be willing to wait for it. Good luck!
What I recommend is using Ebay and Carfax. In particular, look for a truck from Texas. I discovered that Texas trucks are cheaper (because there are so many?), and once I found a few I liked, I bought the $30 Carfax subscription (30 days) and ran the numbers. I found my truck (see gallery) for $12K delivered (KBB at the time was $16K). It had 101 thousand miles, and the Carfax report was so detailed, it listed everything, right down to the oil changes perfomed at the dealer every 3000 miles, all the TSB upgrades, etc. There was enough information that I decided to take the gamble (after talking to the Better Business Bureau about the dealer that had the truck). I know that I might have just found a jewel, but I am pretty sure there is plenty of opportunity - just keep looking for what you want, and be willing to wait for it. Good luck!
Senior User
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 164
Likes: 1
if you MUST have the diesel, buy they diesel, if you dont need it, find a v10, ive got a 5.4, and if i had it to do again i would have found a v10, the milage is close enough to not matter. one thing to keep in mind. in a few months when the new EPA regs go into effect, diesel is gonna jump 25 to 30 cents because of the ULTRA low sulfer laws.....and thats not taking into account any of the crud that is gonna end up going down in IRAN....buckle up fellas, oil is gonna get expensive
Freshman User
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 37
Likes: 0
From: Brandon, MS
OK, if you can afford the PSD, go for it. Since you dont tow go with 3.73 LS rear end for even better mileage. I just bought a plain F250 XL 5.4 2wd, roll up windows, blah blah plain as hell. Ive had a 96 PSD, wish I never sold it 23mpg highway, power for days. I cant believe how much I love the plain A@@ truck. Plenty of power, will burn up the right rear tire too easily, put on duals sounds great. My dads 95 PSD has over 350k on it, with basically no trouble, 23MPG highway. OH, so far my 5.4 is getting about 12MPG. Go with your heart and your pocketbook. Expect the diesel to last over 300k easy, if you plan on keeping it. I the the 5.4 and the v10 should go over 200. Dads new06 PSD feels like in driving a new mustang GT, its BAAAAD.
But also I would suggest a Super Cab or Crew Cab if you take more than one person with you very often. I pick up my kids 6 & 10 from school every chance I get and my little boy is alway bumping my drink holder, not sure how long it will last.
But I dont think you will be disappointed with any choices, as long as you now what to expect mileage wise. Good luck and let us all know what you decide, and show us some pics.
But also I would suggest a Super Cab or Crew Cab if you take more than one person with you very often. I pick up my kids 6 & 10 from school every chance I get and my little boy is alway bumping my drink holder, not sure how long it will last.
But I dont think you will be disappointed with any choices, as long as you now what to expect mileage wise. Good luck and let us all know what you decide, and show us some pics.
Elder User
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 756
Likes: 1
Originally Posted by Greg250
Take the turbo off the diesel. Lets see what kind of motor it is then
Now that's funny.
Originally Posted by terrapin88
Gas Motors:
Cons:
5. I want a diesel.
Chris-
Cons:
5. I want a diesel.
Chris-
