6.0 Ex??

[prosandguy]

I'm looking at trading in my '97CC 7.3 powerstroke on an '04 Ex with a 6.0
Its got 171K on it, but looks very clean and seems to run very smooth compared to my 7.3, is there anything I should be looking out for? I wanted a 7.3 Ex, but the bank says they are all too old, so I'm looking at this 6.0
Thanks for the knowledge guys.

[FourFun]

Probably start with a carfax, investigate the repairs that its needed and what's been problematic if anything. If from a private owner, try to get a feel for the service shcedule they had.

[Fishermedic]

I'm not sure if you're still looking at this, it's been a few days since you posted. The Excursion Forum doesn't see much traffic, I'm new here and until I bought my Ex a few weeks ago I've never owned a diesel but I'll try to help.

First read this thread and the one on coolant in PGreenSVT's signature. Then start researching the 6.0 if you haven't already. There is a lot of info on here about the 6 and it's issues.

Get the CarFax and an OASIS report. Look for issues from the past. If you can find out about it's service history and get a good picture of it's life you might be a little more comfortable buying.

You'll see a lot of recommendations for the Edge Insight (CS or CTS) to monitor the trucks vitals. When I bought my truck I hooked up the Insight and found my oil temp 20* higher than my coolant temp. The oil cooler was shot and needed to be replaced (there were no other symptoms so I'm hoping that's the only issue). I used this in negotiating a price. I bought the truck anyway because I got a great deal on it and I now have the parts to fix my problems on their way. I knew what I was getting into so I'm ok with it, if I had no clue I would be pretty upset.

Do your homework find out what you can and if the truck isn't what you want pass on it, Ex's are pretty had to find, it may take a while but you'll find the truck you want.

My hope it helps.

[prosandguy]

Well, I did it. '03 EX, 99K miles, Limited pkg. Drove it home about 250 miles, I'm loving the 6.0l so far.

[Fishermedic]

Congrats! Mine has been parked in the driveway waiting for parts since I got home with it but I still love it and can't wait to have it on the road.

Do you have anything to monitor the oil temp versus the coolant temp? You really need to know those numbers.

Enjoy you new (2 u) truck!

[tuckman]

I would have to say do the VB leaf swap, caryt is the resident expert on the swap. Also get a ford 30mm rear sway bar, those two things will greatly improve your Ex's handling. Then start saving some money for head gaskets and ARP head studs

[Term3]

Originally Posted by tuckman

I would have to say do the VB leaf swap, caryt is the resident expert on the swap. Also get a ford 30mm rear sway bar, those two things will greatly improve your Ex's handling. Then start saving some money for head gaskets and ARP head studs

The Limited Ex comes with a rear sway bar. I don't know the diameter but it looks honking big to me.

[peace2peep]

It looks big...until you put the 30mm next to it! No comparison my friend! Unless the previous owner upgraded yours.

[Term3]

What is the 30 mm swaybar from? A F350? I am assuming it is a straight swap over.