Intro and 7.3L Buyers Guide?

[skkele]

Hello All!

I'm about to buy a 2002 F350 7.3 and am looking forward to many visits to these forums.

I'm looking for a little friendly advice when it comes to buying a used truck. I know that the 7.3 is favored for a number of reasons. Some guidance on what to look for when it comes to pitfalls would be greatly appreciated.

The truck I'm considering has 245k miles, no talk of a rebuilt/replaced tranny, or any other major maintenance.

Anything in particular I should grill the seller about?

Thanks in advance.

Steve

[heisman01]

basically anything on the front axel
age of battery/alternator/belts
any chips/tuners ect used
frame/fender rust
transmission shifting/repairs ect

basically anything ud look at with a used car/truck engine wise 245k isnt anything for a powerstroke how ever thats not the case with everything listed

[skkele]

Heisman, thanks for the tips!

With regards to the transmission should I be looking for quick shifts, shifting at a certain rpm, certain sounds?

[jermcd]

I can say this as far as the auto trans. Ive owned 3, 7.3 all auto and never once had a trans issues. All the trucks have been stock. Mileage has been 200k, 150k and my current 141k. All shift very smooth, no hard shifts or anything that doesnt feel right.

[NoRalPh]

This is a good Read -> What to look for when buying a USED 99-03 PSD

[skkele]

Thanks to everyone so far on the advice.

What is the stock transmission in a '02 f350? 4R100 or E4OD?

Gonna put that buyers guide to use when I check out the truck. Thanks!

[NoRalPh]

It would be a 4R100.

[444 ci]

check oil pan for rust these are known to rust out on the 7.3.