I have a 99, F250, 7.3

[Silverbear1]

I have a question for everyone here. I am new to your web sight and so far I have been very interested in everyones comments. I have the 99 F250 with the 7.3 and a six speed. My question is this, I would like to have a new crewcab next year with the 6.o and the auto trans. Is the 6.0 a dependable engine? It seems that alot of you are having problems with this engine. I have heard that there is a problem in the engine to the effect that has to do with the number of head bolts on the 6.0, which lets the engine leak coolant. Is this true? Should I keep the 7.3? I bought the truck new in 99 and so far have had no problems. I just did hit the 50,000 mile mark this last week with it. Any information would be great. If I do buy the new 6.0 crewcab, it will travel quite alot as I plan to retire in 2 years and want a dependable truck to pull a trailer with.

Thanks,
George Patterson

[arnoldi]

I too have 7.3 in a 2002 crewcab and want to trade for a new 2006, but I am worried as well. I have had 0 problems with this 2002 and would sure kick myself in the butt if I bought new one only to experience all the problems I have read about the 6.0. I think I am seriously considering keeping my 2002. I too would like to hear some responses on this issue.

[Rodslinger]

First let me welcome you both! I have an '05 and it's my first diesel, so I can only speak from my personal experience. The truck is amazing. It's rock solid, no problems to speak of - I had an auto locking hub decide not to unlock once but that wasn't the motor so I don't count it. It seems the majority of owners of the newer 6.0's especially are EXTREMELY satisfied. Good luck with your decisions and if we can help or answer any questions please ask.

[arnoldi]

Thanks for your input. I hope you are in the majority. I would really like the 2006 for the increase in GVWR. I have truck camper and could really use the extra weight carrying capacity. This 2002 was my first diesel and I have been extremly satisfied. I still have my 1993 F-350 big block that I push snow with, but what a difference between the two trucks the 2002 would out perform my old but reliable 1993 in every area. I am sure you can understand my concerns and the fact that Ford is coming out with new engine in 2007 really makes me think what is wrong with the 6.0 for them to be doing that.

[AYP Tires]

I wouldn't say there is anything wrong with the 6.0. My 05 is my first diesel also and I swithced over from a Mustang. This big 4x4 turbo diesel truck will very soon be just as fast my modded out GT was and to me that is absolutely amazing. Everyone is forced to change for the better. Technology/compitition forces auto makers to constantly make improvements so they can stay in business.

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Last edited by AYP Tires : 10-07-2005 at 08:45 AM.

[lowicp]

As a ford diesel tech, i will tell you that i have put on 9 sets of heads on 2004 and 2005 superduty 6.0's in the past month. However, there are a lot ot theese trucks on the road.

[AYP Tires]

out of curiosity what goes wrong with the cylinder heads?

[Marc Brown]

I test drove a 6.0 and I fill like my 7.3 was stronger, from what I here the 6.0 has alot more power.Maybe the 6.0 needed broke in.

[99Smokin73Stroker]

Well I really can't speak on behalf of all 6.0 owners, I can only say that I have heard about an even mix of opinions. My friend Brent just got rid of his 04 psd because he had too many days lost driving it because it was at the dealer having some engine problem. I've had quite a few people even tell me to get rid of my 99 7.3 because i've changed the emblems on the door and they mistake it for a 6.0! I have to then tell them it's a 7.3 and they quickly tell me to keep it. I'm not knocking the 6.0 at all, I just think it's an engine that may just have some design flaws that enable some of the ones produced to be trouble free while others wreak havoc with their owners. I too was wondering why ford would be so quick to come out with an all new engine 4 years after the 6.0 when the 7.3 was around for more than a decade. Or maybe it was all part of their plan and the 07 engine is going to make everyone forget the 6.0 and the 7.3! I was going to wait another year or so and get an 03 or 04 6.0 but I'm not so sure that I want to now. In fact i'm more likely to stick with my 7.3 and fix some common higher mile repairs than get a truck with less than 100k on the ticker that's going to get my wallet thinner than mary kate. I say keep what you have....that 7.3 can burn 6.0's if you do em right..

[purduefarmboy460]

I have heard mixed thoughts on this as well, I test drove a 6.0L, but it was just too much money at the time. Keep in mind, that most of the things that you read, online, wherever, are people who are having trouble-and are seeking help or answers. The guys who are completely satisfied are out driving them around Forums like this are good because you get a mix of the good and the bad, seems most the guys on here are pleased with what they have. There is no doubt, some bugs with the 6.0, but wasn't there a few things to work out with the 7.3 too? Sounds like you have a jewel of a 7.3 with only 50,000 miles! Enjoy!!