7.3 the best?
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 831
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From: Port Elgin, On
7.3 the best?
Is the 7.3 really the best diesel? I know I'm asking a very biased group but I would like your +'s and -"s about it, Im thinking about a diesel and haven't heard all that much good about the new 6.4. thanks
Postmaster
Joined: Jun 2006
Posts: 3,135
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From: Brinklow Md
What are you looking to do with the truck? It is a very reliable engine, Im pushing 100,000 miles now and my engine is runnig as strong as ever. Its not the most powerful engine but its got some good grunt to it. to me having a truck last for 10 yrs is more important than running 10 sec 1/4 miles. the major problem with the 7.3 trucks is their trans..the 4R100 is infamous for failing, but a solidly rebuilt one will be bullet proof.
Senior User
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 436
Likes: 1
From: Mass
all true stuff! i love mine and other than routing maintenance i haven't had to do anything to the engine. bought it with 90,000 and now have 104,000. runs the *****-all day long. now have i had to change anything else out like (belts-brake pads-batteries-powersteering hoses-calipers-rotors-brake lines-alternator-u joints-hmmm, let me think)
Hotshot
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 13,144
Likes: 11
From: Rochdale MA
I agree with all of the comments here. If you are looking for a hot rod b@lls out diesel with mega horsepower then nope the 7.3 isn't what you want. If you want reliability with decent hp, and be able to talk to the best group of people on the internet if you have a problem then the 7.3 is the one for you. I wouldn't give mine up at all.
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Postmaster
Joined: Oct 2005
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From: Northeast TN
I've been using my dad's '05 6.0, since I sold my 97 7.3 2 years ago. I bought my 99 1 month ago. I've put 1,200 miles on my truck since I bought it, over 400 of those miles I've been pulling a trailer. With dad's truck, same trailer, same backhoe. I have to run 3,000 rpm's to hit 35 mph on Powell Mtn. My truck 2,500 rpm's 45-50 mph. I absolutely love my truck. It's my 3rd PSD, and my favorite.
Post Fiend
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 14,582
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From: 21791
For all out power, get a 5.9 cummins, or a duramax. Those new common rail engines are brutal. The 6.4's are so new they need some time under their belt, but with enough fuel and air out of the box for over 500hp with a tuner, they are brutal, and will be something to contend with in the coming years. For awesome sound, get the 6.0. If i had a 6.0 i wouldnt want to convert to a cummins. For a tow truck, or school bus application where you need ultimate reliability, but not "go-fast"-ness, get a 7.3
More Turbo
Joined: Apr 2008
Posts: 639
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From: Indiana
Bought mine stock with 200K on it just under two years ago and now have 280K on it with only a few mods. Took second in a sled pull (296') last year (stock), beating a few heavily modified Cummins (did get beat by a Cummins though, with a little more mods). Getting >19MPG and heading into more mods and not seeing any end in sight. I have even been contemplating a planned rebuild to be sure it lasts longer.
Before I bought it, the truck was used to transport RV trailers around the country. The pedals are like new but the cruise control buttons are worn.
Before I bought it, the truck was used to transport RV trailers around the country. The pedals are like new but the cruise control buttons are worn.
Senior User
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 120
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Between me, my dad, and my brother we have 4 7.3's and 2 6.0's. The 7.3's have well more miles than the 6.0's and running good. If those trucks could have had a tranny, ball joints, u-joints, and water pumps to match them, your routine maintenance would be the only money to add to the fuel bill.
Thread Starter
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Laughing Gas
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 831
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From: Port Elgin, On
Thanks for all the input guys, I should have been a little more clear of my intentions. I'm looking for a long term truck for family use only and pulling of a 5th wheel camper and the odd 4 wheeler haul. I am looking for longevity, power and fuel economy, as much as possible. thanks again