I am looking for a 250/350 w/diesel strictly to pull a fifth wheel camper when we go camping. It would only get 5k-6k miles/year, if that. I see some with over 200k on them and don't know what the expected dependability/durability of these engines is. I only have about 10k to spend, if anyone can point me in the right direction, it would be most appreciated.
Thanks.

 

IMHO you wont stick with that 5 to 6 K per year once you start driving one. Get a 350 if you can for the additional GCVW.

For $10k look for a 95 to 97 PSD with a good body and interior. Milage should not be an issue as the 7.3 L powerstroke is very capable of 350k to 400k miles.

Make sure the vehicle had regular oil and antifreeze changes. Get some anti-cav test strips and check the coolant for proper protection levels. In the air filter box check the outflow area for a build up of grit that may indicate a poor seal around the filter element, pull the air intake tube off at the turbo and check the blades for dusting (looks like they've been sand blasted with very fine particles sand). Start the vehicle and check for smoke on startup (a little white smoke is ok if it doesnt start right up). Drive it and watch for smoke (some black smoke under hard acceleration not bad) You dont want grey or blue at start up or while driving. While driving observe for rough idle or erratic running.

I am sure others have more ideas but that covers the diesel part fairly well the rest is the same as any other vehicle. Note that ball joints are a known problem at around 100K in the PSD.