Is a 1991 F250, 4X4, automatic w/300,000 miles a good by?

[Minotaur]

Hi, if you noticed from last post, I am still looking to buy a used Ford F250 or F350 diesel pickup. A local guy in Cutler Ridge (Miami) FL is selling his 1991 F250 4x4 automatic diesel with about 300,000 miles. He is asking about $3000. I read that these 7.3 L engines are prone to cavation unless the coolant is not changed often. Is apply to all 7.3 L engines regardless of the year. I want a realiable, easy to repair, cheap parts, pickup. Is this vehicle a good choice? The guy has done 80% of his own repairs too.

Also another guy is selling a 1995 F350 Crew Cab non-dually, with 150,000 miles. Does this 7.3 diesel engine also have cavation problems? Do 1995 have a factury turbo?

Thanks Paul

[late_99_PSD]

95 = Powersroke (turbo)
91 = IDI (probably not turbo)
I would definatly get the 95. The IDI is alright, but you deffinalty wont have near the power and your dealer and other places has atleast a liitle bit of an idea when it comes to working on them, as well as the aftermarket is aware that powerstrokes exist, unlike IDI's.

The IDI's are more prone to cavitation because they are essentially a 6.9 bored out to a 7.3, but a powerstroke is designed to be a 7.3. The IDI's don't exactly need the coolant changed as much, but it is much more important to monitor SCA levels.

[Minotaur]

Thanks for the info. As much as I like a 4X4 pickup, if it's going to be a night mare to get it repaired, or find aftermarket parts. I go with the 1995. Even with a turbo, is this still the pre-computer controlled 7.3 L truck? O.... and if I want convert the F350 to a 4X4 how much would that cost me, your estimate? Thanks Paul

[late_99_PSD]

Powerstrokes are all compurer cocntrolled. IDI's are all mechanical ( aka you anly "need" 1 wire to keep it running)

Converting a 2x4 into a 4x4 is possible, but not practical. Your better off waiting and finding a 4x4. Obvously you would need axle, both front and rear prop shafts, trasnfercase, but also a 4x4 transmisssion, and trans crossmember. If you had a junk 4x4 sitting around then that wouldn't be too bad because you have everything you need, but trying to buy parts, searching junkyards, you'll probably end up spending more then the trucks worth.