Best Year of 7.3

[AgTires4295]

Okay folks, lets see what is the best year of the 7.3 (99-03). This includes differences ranging from opinions/facts regarding stock modifications made by throughout the years such as exterior/interior, turbo, rods, etc. Vote and back it up with a reason why.

[strokinpower]

I would say 2003

[chipw]

I say 2001 but I'm probably a little biased.

[Bill Kay]

2000 Late everything and for sure forged rods.

[NoRalPh]

I think like anything else, it evolved. And the newer the better as issues were worked-out. I guess, if you planned on dumping like 5K into engine performance (if that's what you thought these trucks were about ) there would be an advantage to the earlier forged connecting rods. But, for the Vast majority of us, the whole "PMR" thing has proven to be a non-issue...

[Joel]

I said 2000 because of Forged rods.

[99' Powerstroke]

I would say 99' because that's what I have Even though my truck is mostly stock except for just an intake and exhaust, I tow a bit, and I like the idea of having the forged rods. Though it's not common, I have heard of unmodified PMR engines throwing rods through the block. I'm sure unmodified forged engines have thrown rods too but I have never heard of it.

[2000_f350]

I said E99 because I have one. It does have forged rods though.

[Turbostang500]

What can I say, I own a 00'.

Early has forged rods, late has clear headlights and a better gauge config.

Is there really any other differences?

[jesilvas]

The only major differences are between E99s and late ones. After that it's just a little bit.
That's a very objective question also - Best? Best for: towing, modding, racing, pulling, DDing, nicest? The list goes on. As long as it's a late model 7.3, i'd say it ends there.