Thinking about a 7.3L need some questions answered.

[FASTS197]

Well im new to the forum but i come from S197forum and know nobody checks the introductory sections so i figured id post in here, mods move if needed. I currently own a 98 jeep DD (looking to get rid of for the powerstroke) and an 06 mustang gt (the toy). Ive been looking into powerstrokes i want to stay away from the 6.0 for obvious reasons but the 7.3's have interested me. Ive looked at a couple looking to get one already lifted, under 200k for a decent price, considering my mustang is an endless money pit the powerstroke will be a nice daily.

I found this deal its about 2 hours and 45 minutes away so i need tips on what to check for when i look at diesels are new for me. Im having two guys come with me who have both owned powerstrokes but went to cummins coming with me. Just want more opinions if this is a good deal or not, im not diggin the rockstars but ill deal with them.

2001 F250 powerstroke XLT by Regency 7.3 liter, lifted 8 inches sitting on new 22 rockstar rims, new 37inch hankook tires that have a lot of tread left, interior is leather with wood grain dash board all power windows, tool box in bed, towing mirrors, fifth wheel hitch, dealer inspected, have paperwork for the inspection and tires, crew cab no rust undercoated, truck has only 167000 miles for $15,200 OBO

The only picture i have as of now. Its not the greatest i know.

[Meat12]

Based simply on the year of truck, miles, options, 4dr, etc. I would say yes. The big things are how well was the truck taken care of. 167k is nothing for the motor, but if the truck was beaten and not maintained with that 5th wheel and big tires I would pay close attention to that tranny. Check for leaks and find out what was inspected and what they found. My .02

Meat

[nolefanreed15]

Also those aren't towing mirrors in that pic

[FASTS197]

Originally Posted by Meat12

Based simply on the year of truck, miles, options, 4dr, etc. I would say yes. The big things are how well was the truck taken care of. 167k is nothing for the motor, but if the truck was beaten and not maintained with that 5th wheel and big tires I would pay close attention to that tranny. Check for leaks and find out what was inspected and what they found. My .02

Meat

Tranny is definitley on thing I know i need to look out for. The interior looks nice he sent me a picture today I just need to go look at it and drive it. I just didnt know If there were any problems like the 99 oil pan or anything big i should worry about? Thanks for the answer btw

[FASTS197]

Originally Posted by nolefanreed15

Also those aren't towing mirrors in that pic

I didn't notice that til you said somethin ill have to ask him about that thanks!

[Zaairman]

Originally Posted by FASTS197

Tranny is definitley on thing I know i need to look out for. The interior looks nice he sent me a picture today I just need to go look at it and drive it. I just didnt know If there were any problems like the 99 oil pan or anything big i should worry about? Thanks for the answer btw

The oil pan can be a problem on ANY year 7.3 that is exposed to salt...

[FASTS197]

Originally Posted by Zaairman

The oil pan can be a problem on ANY year 7.3 that is exposed to salt...

Hmm I didnt know this that's good to know though

[7.3HeavyHauler]

Remove the intake hose to the turbo and check shaft play if it moves more than say an 1/8" it will need rebuilt, also tell them that you want to do a cold start on it i.e some places will start it before you get there, so that way you don't see the white smoke if any and also if your going to need glow plugs. The only other thing I would check is the fuel filter just take the cap off and lift it, if it's black the I would wonder about upkeep, check ball joints, u-joints and tie rods for wear those might help reduce the price a little if they are worn out other than that looks nice

[FASTS197]

Originally Posted by 7.3HeavyHauler

Remove the intake hose to the turbo and check shaft play if it moves more than say an 1/8" it will need rebuilt, also tell them that you want to do a cold start on it i.e some places will start it before you get there, so that way you don't see the white smoke if any and also if your going to need glow plugs. The only other thing I would check is the fuel filter just take the cap off and lift it, if it's black the I would wonder about upkeep, check ball joints, u-joints and tie rods for wear those might help reduce the price a little if they are worn out other than that looks nice

Thanks for the good info! I'll be sure to check all that like I said its 3 hours away so I'm gona be sure I check EVERYTHING when I go

[audiocontr]

I wouldn't touch a truck with a lift kit. Too many variables. Make sure you take it on highway speeds, check for wear in the steering. Is there a lot of free play in the center position? Does it seem to swerve and need constant correction? I'd forget about it if either are the case.

Check directly behind the parking brake for a black box screwed into the footwell. It will be the size of a thick book. Is there a hole cut in the side facing the parking brake? Is there any circuit board or wiring sticking out the same side? You're checking for the installation of a chip. It could be good or bad depending on the previous owner.

I'd also find someone with an AE or snap on system and plug it in. Run the test programs. I will never buy a 7.3 without it.

Do NOT tell the salesman that you drove 3 hours to see the truck. He knows (as well as the rest of us) that if you travel that far, youre going to buy it. Instead, tell him that you're staying with friends/family in the area for a few weeks and thought you'ld take a look. Make it so he knows you can walk away without regret.