2000 7.3 to buy or not to buy

[kbos]

So my duramax was a lemon and I need a new truck. I'm open to just about any diesel besides a 6.0. Looking to spend 10-12. I test drove a 2000 f-350 that was beautiful. 127,000 for 11,500. Been sitting on the lot for awhile, dealership has a good rep. Blow by was normal, light smoke but cap didn't blow off. Handling was excellent. Frame you could eat off but the other componants down there were lookin pretty orange, including the side step mounts. The door locks dont work properly and it has typical ext cab rattle, but I figure I can have em fix the locks and the door rattle will be easy enough. I surprised them when I test drove it so I could be the first to turn it on for the day. First shot didn't start right up, could have been my own sloppy wrist work, second shot it started like it was new. Here is a link to the truck. I can't afford to deal with anything thats gunna need tons of repairs again, like the 5-7 grand I dumped into my dmax this past year. Should I look into the dealerships warranties as well?

2000 Ford F350 Lariat For Sale In -

Also looking at this 97 - supposedly maintained excellently and dealer has all the records to prove it. From what people say, that TTB sounds like it'd have to be swapped for a d60 after not long and I would have to have my mechanic do it I don't have the resources, so thats gotta be what $2000 down the road?

1997 Ford F-250 XLT SuperCab 4WD - Cars For Sale Derry, NH

Any advice you guys have will be taken into account. I only got into diesels last year and buying a truck is a big deal and I can't afford to screw up twice haha.

[ttyR2]

I'd definitely go with a '99-later Super Duty. The improvements from the OBS models are excellent.