Hey guys/gals...
I have always...since introduced...wanted an excursion. i have finally become stable enough to get an older (2000+ model). i just want to know about some things to look for...years where there were problems, common problems, etc...any or all help is appreciated. I have always had fords and some super duties and are somewhat familiar with them, but i didnt know if there are specifics with the X. Thanks again

 

Most of the drivetrain and many body parts are straight 250 series - so you are familiar with all of the 7.3 vs 6.0 vs v-10 vs 5.4 liter hype - everyone has their own opinion about light duty diesel applications.

Right now is certainly a good time to invest in a "large" SUV - don't know if prices have bottomed out - any low MPG vehicle is likely to drop in price as the gas prices climb again.

I would recommend to purchase what you need - 5.4 liter is cheaper than a V-10 if you do not need to pull a trailer - 2WD certainly cheaper and easier to maintain than 4WD if you never get off of dry pavement.

Good luck on your purchase - do LOTS of looking before you buy - with so many on the market there will always be a "better deal" just over the horizon. It is certainly a buyers market - use it to your advantage.

 

thanks alot....

 

if you look on this site, you'll find alot of loyal ex owners. i traded a '98 gmc 1500 suburban for my '01 v10 ex. i have a 30' travel trailer that i pull and on vacation i normal haul my family (4), my inlaws and my neice. the ex makes a great tow vehicle. commom problems are front brakes and rotors, electric door locks, manifold bolts, soft rear suspension. most gasers get about 10-15 mpg. if you need to haul stuff then this is the truck.

 

The only big issues to avoid involves the 2001 MY per the TSB found here:

https://www.ford-trucks.com/tsb/full...hp?tsb=01-13-5

The dreaded diode mentioned affects vehicles built between 7/27/2000 AND 3/23/2001, I unfortunately had one of those vehicles. Needless to say, $4000 later, I had a new trans.

The early V10s (2000-2001 MY) spit out spark pugs, but it's a rare occurrance unless you don't make sure they're tight. 2002+ trucks used a longer spark plug to alleviate this problem.

If you're going to be towing and looking for a V10; a V10 truck with 4.30 gears will make all the difference if you live in an area with hills. Most of the trucks, however, come stock with 3.73 gears which can definately get the job done if you're dealing with smaller hills and flat land.

A diesel powered Excursion will definately fit the bill for you if you plan on using it as a daily driver. Diesels are designed to work and drive, if you plan on using this truck mainly as a tow vehicle, get the V10.

As 87mh said, don't rush! This is a buyers market, make sure you get what YOU want and don't settle for anything less. Find a couple trucks you like, compare them, and see who is willing to do what for you. We're here as a sounding board for you, so before you pull the trigger on one, let us know!

These trucks are awesome and the best tow vehicle you'll ever buy with plenty of room for mods and upgrades; stick around, you'll learn alot, especially if you use "search". In the meantime, Happy Hunting....

 

hey guys...
thanks for the help...
what do you think a good price would be for a 2000 limited? found one in great shape 94k v10 leather, etc...9900.
my budget is around 10 to 12k...thanks again

 

Shop around. I picked up my '03 Limited V10 4x4 w/73k on the clock for 8500. Of course, Las Vegas is not a great SUV market, so that played to my advantage. I talked him down from 11,500 (he was ready to get rid of it). It has some dings, scratches, and dents, but still worth it!! I picked it up last September, and have loved every minute of owning it!

 

Why does everyone insist on the V10 for towing? My 2000 5.4 has been my horse hauler (often 6 horse stock fully loaded) and I have done okay. Yes I know I know I have had tranny probs but it has happened to non towers as well.
I have pulled I 40 thru the mountains for several years and I have passed pick ups towing trailers slam by. My mileage has been good, even great at times.
Do not underestimate the power of the 5.4 when it comes to towing. may not be a beefy package but it gets the job done.
By the end of 2009 I plan on rolling over to 300,000 and I am still towing strong.

okay ill get off my ex box now.

 

Wow thats impressive hoosierbaby64!!! The I 40s no joke!! How much does that trailer weigh with 6 horses in it anyway????

 

Over the summer, I picked my 03 X eddie Bauer v10 4x4 up on trade at my dealership. They jumped at the $8300 we gave them. I jumped too!! I was already calling my wife to tell her about the X she would be getting even before the customers said yes!.

It WAS spotless, no chips, dings or scratches. Not even footprints on the carpet mats. As a matter of fact, they had it detailed earlier that day. It had ony 31k on the clock. As I undestand, it had all the toys/buttons for an 03 - dvd, hot leather blah blah. Rear bench and no roof. Im not sure if quds were available or not.

Anyhow, look around. The market is soft. Not from fuel but from the lending industry being very scared to loan money.

IF you need a loan for it, go online to penfed.org. You have to join a cockamamie organization BUT the interest is stupid low and great service.

I, too fell in love when they were introduced and was unable to get one when I worked @ Ford dealer. Now I can because of the poor economy. Get one and enjoy it.!!!!

 

Why do many on this site feel the V-10 is the best for towing?????? how many Gasoline powered semi's are on the road today.... errr (almost) None! I am sure some goof has a huge gasser semi somewhere... there is a reason all Semi Trucks are diesels.... Torque, Fuel economy and Longevity.. if you can afford the diesel er at least the 7.3 I would say get it! it willl hold its value much better than the gassers.

 

Every now and then there could be a relaibility issue with the diesles, higher maintenace costs(up to $150-$200 for the oil change). plus the issue with diesel still being so much more than gas at the pump. I stumbled across mine. I jumped without a thought at the v10. Great relaibility and cheap to maintain. As a former Ford Truck Salesman, we called the v10 the "poor mans diesel". I enjoy it and am very happy to have found an X in incredible condition.

Semis really need the extra torque that the diesel makes. As I try and go up a hill towing my 12000 TT, I sometimes wish I had a 7.3 or 6.0, BUT, if i change the gears, I can improve that situation AND enjoy lower fuel prices.

Opinions are just like butts. Some are nice and others arent. But at least you can count on the fact that everyone has one.

 

another im considering is a 2000 limited V10 with 108k...they want 6100, but it is a private owner so i could possibly get it cheaper. obviously, i would like to spend as little money as possible, but get the best truck possible...im sure evryone feels the same. should i worry about the 108k miles? i like the price because it leaves me more cash for the aftermarket...thanks again...

 

Smell any of the fluids. Trans, etc. If the smell burnt, move on. They probably havent taken good care. To see if it has been in an accident, run yuor fingers on the edges of the hood & fenders. The edges will feel rough. When they are repainted, they never sand or buff those edges. Thats how appraisers know if a car had paintwork. Also look at the screws under the hood - on the fenders. Look for marks on the heads from screwdrivers/drilldrivers. Shows that the fender has been moved,removed or repositioned.

A few hints from a new car salesmanager who appraises his own cars.

 

I think the point he was making about towing is that if the OP is planning on using the Excursion JUST for towing then it may be better to choose a V10 as DIESELS PREFER TO RUN ALL THE TIME. Not saying gas engines aren't the same though.

I actually think the opposite. If the truck is to be used a daily run-about, the gasser is much better suited for that. Especially during the winter.

If you plan on only using it for towing HEAVY, then the diesel is the better choice. Just be aware that any vehicle that just sits will need more maintenance....regardless of powerplant.

And keep in mind that a V10 w/4.30's is rated to tow as much as a PSD. The PSD may get you up that hill a few seconds faster but it WILL use less fuel doing it but then again, that fuel is more expensive and so is the engine.

Tough call, huh? The PSD is cheaper and more fun to hop-up though.

I personally would avoid any 2003 6.0L but that's just me.

Have fun looking! And do take your time.