So I've been doing some looking on here and google, and I think what I've found is accurate but just wanted to check.

So for the whole run of the Excursion with the V10, as I understand it, the only mechanical changes on the Ex was the heads with more spark plug threads starting in 03 correct?

I know the diesels had changes with engines and transmissions, and the new front end look in 05, but did I miss anything?

Obviously newest is always best, but from looking around I've found some really good deals on the early models and if the plug threads are the only difference (those don't worry me) I see no reason not to get an older model in good shape.

One other tidbit that I can't find, but thought I did before. Did the Excursion with the v10 ever come with a manual 4wd lever? I THOUGHT I saw one but now I can't find it.

 

Probably best posted in V10 forum, but there are some changes.


2000 and 2001 V10 have 8.8:1 compression.
2002 and above 2V V10's have 9:1 compression.
They did it with piston dish size. Later V10 have a smaller cc dish.

 

Well reason I asked here was I was referring to the whole truck, specific to the v10 model.

Engine, transmission, axles, transfercase, etc. Any kind of mechanical changes that makes newer years better (or older better if something was replaced with a new problematic part)

 

No Ex came with the NP271 manual tcase but it is a easy swap.

 

The excursion itself, also went through changes (regardless of engine)

In early year(s):
no adjustable pedals
old-style rolling odometer (vs. new digital)
wiring for new mirror upgrades not there (i.e.: no turn signal, running light wires)
dash cup-holder not very deep to hold anything beyond a can of soda
console cup-holder too shallow as well
radio took cassette tapes (vs. CD on newer models)
Overhead entertainment center took VHS tapes (vs. DVD/CD on newer models)
Tow-hitch rated for 10k (due to bolts used) later years are 12k rated (WDH)

Exactly which year each change happen is different, but it shows all the tiny things that add up.

 

Ok that pretty much answers my question. Looks like no mechanical/drivetrain changes that really matter. To me purely personal preference items being different.

And thanks on the transfer case info. Not a big deal it didn't come with a NP271. I'd like one but no interest in swapping and I'll stop looking for/holding out for a factory Excursion that doesn't exist!