Newbie here- Hello all

[Kevin2011]

Hello folks,
I am entering the Ford Diesel family soon. I currently have a 94 F-250 gasser. Moving up in the world and decided to go get a F-350 7.3L somewhere in the year range of 1999-2003. Funds are limited but I think I will do ok.

My son-in-law (and daughter) live in Charolette N.C. (I am in New Hampshire). I have been watching craigslist for a used truck to buy. Looking for a very specific truck. F-350 Ext cab 8' Long bed 4x4. I plan on hauling firewood, horses, horse manure and dirt/fill and plowing snow. I do it all with my F-250 and she does it well!

My son-in-law is a Mechanic, he agreed to check out anything I find in his area. I found that these forums are usually just awesome to gain knowledge and tips, tricks and what-not. I did find that website powerstrokehelp.com and found the video "how to buy a used 7.3L truck". It already has paid off. I was looking at a truck yesterday and found a big red flag I never would have known about. I found the exhaust manifold bolt broken near the connection point going up to the turbo. Evidently its a sign of overheating.

I am still learning about this. I am an HVAC mechanic and no stranger to working with tools.

Anyway looking forward to learning from all of you.

[colo_dually]

Howdy, and

Good luck with your search for a solid F350.

[6.0shannon]

WELCOME TO THE ORG

[Kevin2011]

Thanks,
I am fortunate to have a wife who steadies my hand. I see a truck I like but has high mileage or something and she talks me down. Makes me realize I have plenty of time and can wait for the right truck. I have a truck that works and I have the cash in the bank. I can wait.... (but I can't!!!)

The more I read about the diesel world the more I like it.

[storkerlovr]

welcome to the org!

sounds like a 6 speed would work better for you than an auto with that your doing.

[mudrunninpig]

welcome to the org

[Kevin2011]

I would totally agree except two things: The snow plowing with the back and forth and all, and my wife may need to drive it now and then. I think I personally would like the Stick shift. Do any of you plow with a manual trans? any issues with the clutch?

[smotrs]

Welcome to the Org. Good luck with the search.

[storkerlovr]

well can she drive a stick? its easy to learn on a diesel...

just dont ride the clutch when pushing snow and you will be fine. if your clutch would to go it should not be cause of plowing.

if you go with an auto i would get a torque converter and trans cooler for a 6.0 (2003.5-2007) and a bts valve body. then top it off with some good custom tunes for towing, then you would be alright i think.

[2003kingranch]