How much longer do I have with my 99 7.3?

[Altnrgy]

So I've got 220k on my 2WD 99 Powerstroke with automatic transmission. I've had it for 3 yrs and put a little over 45,000 miles on it and I love it. I'm a small time contractor and frequently tow equipment and or job supplies of 8,000+ lbs and sometimes a lot more. Can't even tell it's back there. No problems in that time and other then needing new power door locks there's nothing wrong with truck. But it's time for new tires and at least front brakes.

If I forget to plug the block heater in it doesn't like to start under 25f but when I remember no problems.

I've heard that the torque converters can go in these and has always had a pretty distinctive torque converter rattle the whole time I've owned it. Would it be wise to have that replaced before it takes the transmission with it?

I'm really torn about this. I think this truck has a lot of life left in it and best of all it's paid for. I'm moving from an area with mild winters to an area with harsh winters and the batteries probably need replaced before I go. There will be many nights with overnight lows under 10f.

So what should do? I'd like do put new tires, brakes and batteries and avoid the the shock of a new truck for at least a few more years. What else should I do to this truck? Anti-freeze looks new and PH test fine.

Thanks in advance and if this isn't the right place for these questions please accept my apology and be kind enough to direct me to the right place.

[JSchuricht]

At 220k, your motor is broke in. Just do the regular maintenance and replace the wearable parts as needed and it should last you another 220k.

For the cold start issue, check the glow plug relay to see if it's working, could also be wiring or glow plugs.

If you think the TC is going, take it to a transmission specialist and have them take a look. It is usually cheaper to rebuild the transmission before the TC goes out.

[Cjcross22]

yeah iv seen 400k+ on the 7.3s, treat em right and they'll last!

[Tyler325]

My 7.3 was tough to start below 30. With a working GPR, new CPS, 5w-40, and good batteries, it starts easily below 10f and fires right up at -30f when plugged in. I have 180k mostly unknown miles on mine.

[NCHornet]

I have seen plenty of 7.3's well over 500K and a chosen few over 800K and never had the heads pulled. But things are going to wear and need to be replaced, that just goes with the flow, but it's still cheaper than a car papyment on a 65K new truck!! The truck has been good to you, you need to be good to it as well!! This means regular maintenance. Your GP system needs to be checked out, I have made it easy by doing a write up that anyone can follow and the mods (Dave ) has been kind enough to make it a sticky at the top of this section. Couldn't be easier, heck if you lived close I would even check it out for you!!

NCH

[Hank]

First, welcome to the org.! Great place to hang out!

I'd have the tranny serviced by a reputable shop. Don't let them flush out the lines. Many a tranny has given up the ghost right after. It seems to dislodge crap that clogs it up. You can, however, use the tranny's pump to exchange the fluid in the system. There are right ups on here and it is pretty easy to find when googling.

The best combo for our front brakes is cyro'd slotted powerslots and Hawk LTS pads. It's what I put on last time and I love 'em.

Good luck with her and enjoy the next 220k miles!

[Altnrgy]

Thanks so much to everyone who posted their advice. You've really eased my fear of having to buy a new truck and reinforced my belief that this truck has a lot of life left in it. Best and I'll keep lurking with wild eyes. Travis