?New to me '04 6.0L

[rutleep]

I have never oned a diesel, but am considering buying an '04 with 137,000 miles at a pretty good price. I currently own a V 10 250. If I were to buy this, what are the most basic, yet important things I need to look for or do for this engine? I will primarily be towing a bass boat and larger 5th wheel, but not alot of towing for either one. Otherwise, I will just be using this for everyday living. Thanks in advance! Rusty

[fireryan]

EGR delete, flush coolant and put in a elc coolant, get some gauges to monitor oil and coolant temps and egt's, install a coolant filter also.

[amdriven2liv]

Welcome!!!

Try to get yourself an Oasis report from your local Ford dealer. Need to have the Vin#. If you are buying from a private seller, have the seller get it for you. It will list all things done to the truck under warranty.

Does the seller have maintenance records? If not, I would change all fluids when you get it. Start your own maintenance clock going forward.

Remember, maintenance is key with these trucks.

You should get gauges. Matter of fact I recommend buying either Scangauge II ($169) or Edge Insight CTS ($300 + depending on extras, get it with EGT probe) before buying any truck. Take it with you when you test drive and get the motor up to operating temps. (ECT at least 188*) And check the Temp gap between ECT vs. EOT. Make sure there is not more than a 15* spread. ie. ECT 190* EOT 215*. You don't want more than that. Plus, when you do get a truck you will already have gauges for it. These 2 gauge systems are plug and play into the OBD port.

Hope you are getting a good deal on it. Good luck!