Hey guys, I' m relatively new to the forum and am in the car market due to my truck getting totaled last week.

So..... I found a '99 and a 2000 F250 both with the 7.3L powerstroke, approx 125,000 miles, and manual trans. I am hoping someone can share their knowledge and experience with me by pointing out some areas of concern to look for. From what I've heard 125k is relatively low mileage for these diesels-- '99 is a private seller asking $11,500 and the 2000 is looking for 15,000 (its a dealership) does that seem reasonable?
Also, I've been hearing fuel economy estimates ranging from 12-25 MPG... If you could what you get with a relatively stock truck that would be awesome.

 

Welcome to the forum. I have heard that 25mpg is attainable with a 2 wheel drive standard cab 7.3. Depending upon configuration though, realistic highway mpg range is 12-18.

You will get a ton of suggestions as to what you want to look for in a 7.3, but what I like to look at first as a 'go or no-go' test, is the turbo. After looking at the air filter, pull the intake tube off so you can see the turbo vanes. Take a flashlight to look down the tube. A little oil inside the tube is normal, but if it's caked with dust, that's not good. The impeller should be even and straight with no chips, roughness, or signs of 'sandblasting'. Any of these signs would mean inadequate filtration and/or maintenence. A rough looking turbo means that the engine was subjected to the same harsh elements. 125k miles are relatively low and a well maintained 7.3 should have spotless looking turbo vanes. Mine are at 136k, as they were at 115k when I bought it. Best of luck to you, and surely others will chime in to give you other things to check out.

 

Hey, thanks for the advice. I'm heading down tomorrow to inspect the 2000, I'll let you know how I make out.

 

This is a good reference guide for shopping for a used 7.3.