Potential 7.3 owner with Qs...

[kep5niner]

I'm on the market for a 250 SD w/ the 7.3. I'm familiar with its legendary performance, and have several in the family totaling about 1,000,000 miles so far.

I have found a 2001 F250 Platinum with 224k on the clock. I will be traveling out of town to execute the final inspection and see if the deal is a go. What specifics should I look for to ensure this particular truck has had a good life, and will survive for 100k+ more miles during my potential ownership?

I'm new to the SD scene, but I'm no stranger to trucks. My blown '05 F150 is just not the truck suitable for my work needs. Any input would be appreciated.

[Dietoremain]

check for blow by, pull the intake and inspect the compressor wheel for dusting/pitting.. drive it n make sure the shifting is smooth..original trans?

[kep5niner]

I've searched on the forum, and the blow-by check seems pretty straight-forward. Although I have not asked specifically, there are no indications that the trans is not original. The turbo-wheel was recently replaced, with supporting documentation.

The seller claims to have the majority of the maintenance history paperwork. The truck has larger injectors, DP Tuning, and a turbo-back exhaust, and appears to be in great shape for a decade+ old truck - no rust, especially.

Thanks for the input, and I should have the test drive executed in the next week or so, and I'll report back.

[NCHornet]

2001 had the dreaded mechanical diode in the trans. But after 210K I am sure it has been rebuilt or replaced by now. Look for a tag on the trans that says so. If not I would plan on a trans soon. I have never heard of a 2001 going 210K without the trans failing. At 210K there is still a lot of life left in it. There are several around my parts with over 500K and two that I know are over 800K with no major engine failures. Plus they do more work in one day than most trucks do in a year. Maintenance is key as to how much life is left in it. There are no crystal balls.

[average]

Check the oil pan as well... rust is an issue depending where you live.

[kep5niner]

Just received this from the seller:

"Previous owner said original tranny was replaced for ford re-man at approx 125k miles.
Tranny was dropped and fluid replaced last year with starter/flex plate install. Haven't done anything with diode."

[kep5niner]

125k miles puts this truck at the 2006 time frame based upon the Carfax. Would a rebuilt trans of that year have addressed the mechanical diode issue?

[kep5niner]

Pulled the trigger on the truck, and after spending 9 hours / 650 miles driving it home, I have this to report: WHAT AN AWESOME MACHINE! I lucked-out on this one - this truck is a beauty. And a rocket! The previous owner was an enthusiast, like many on here, and this truck is done exactly how I would have, and more.

[Dietoremain]

Originally Posted by kep5niner

Pulled the trigger on the truck, and after spending 9 hours / 650 miles driving it home, I have this to report: WHAT AN AWESOME MACHINE! I lucked-out on this one - this truck is a beauty. And a rocket! The previous owner was an enthusiast, like many on here, and this truck is done exactly how I would have, and more.

lol with tunes and injectors im sure it scoots.. glad you enjoy it..
glad to have another 7.3 driver here!

[444 ci]

congrats take care of your 7.3 and it will keep you smiling for a long time to come.