hello im new in here and im looking to buy a used superduty. i want to know which year is best if any, and if the 7.3 is really a better motor over the 6.o also what potential problems are there with both versions thanks

 

Welcome to the forum! I'm quite new here as well but since I just bought a truck and went through a great deal of research, perhaps I can help a little.

The 7.3 vs. 6.0 debate will rage long after I am gone, however, IMHO the 6.0 is a better engine. That said I would try to avoid an 03-04 truck with the 6.0 as those seem to have the most problems. Whatever you do make sure you have an OASIS report run on any truck you are considering as that will help you identify if the truck in question has had major engine issues. Happy hunting and remember to take your time!

 

good luck!

see if you can find a 02-03 SD with the 7.3, look for an XLT or Lariat with either a supercab or crew cab configuration.
There are some reliable 6.0 engines, just avoid the early 03-04's, I think by 05 and up they had improved.

 

The one point often overlooked in the great 7.3/6.0 debate is the transmission. Both engines make a lot of low end torque and can be hard on transmissions. Most Super Dutys have towed, so you need to keep that in mind also.

For the 7.3 and early 6.0 engines, you got the 4R100 transmission. A decent transmission, but if the odometer says much over 150k you might want to budget for a rebuild or replacement.

2005 and up got the 5R110W transmission. It's a better transmission but still should be thought of as finite. I don't know of a high end mileage figure, but anything over 250K should probably be considered borrowed time

Manual transmissions don't escape from this either. Clutches and transmissions get worn out from abuse, heavy towing and all that low end grunt that makes a Power Stroke desirable.

My opinion, a 7.3 with a manual transmission or a 2005+ 6.0 with an automatic would be the ticket.

 

redford - good call on the transmission advice, I totally forgot that the 05 and up have the 5R110W.

 

Actually all 2003 up 6.0L powerstrokes with automatics have the TorqShift. 2005 is when they atarted putting the TorqShift behind the gas engines too.

 

Correct. I reread my post and it does give the impression that 2005 and up 6.0's got the 5R110W transmission, but Beerstalker is right. I was trying to suggest that you look for a 2005+ 6.0.

Sorry.