Define pulling monster here. What specifically do you intend to use it for? Details matter significantly as to which way would be most ideal here. Ultimately, I would recommend using one vehicle as a daily, and a different one as a toy if money was no object. Remember you can only pick 2. Reliable, cheap, powerful.

 

Money is definitely an object here. My buddy has the F350 for the daily and the F450 for the big stuff. I'm going to have to do it all in one truck.
I'm going to be pulling a big 5th wheel camper for the family as well as construction equipment. We have some dump trailers as well as flat bed trailers for mini skids and skylifts.
You got me with the age old 3 legged stool question. I use that all the time in construction. I guess I'll have to go with reliable and powerful. If it cost me a little bit more for 2 trucks in one then so be it.
Thanks a ton!

 

Money is definitely an object here. My buddy has the F350 for the daily and the F450 for the big stuff. I'm going to have to do it all in one truck.
I'm going to be pulling a big 5th wheel camper for the family as well as construction equipment. We have some dump trailers as well as flat bed trailers for mini skids and skylifts.
You got me with the age old 3 legged stool question. I use that all the time in construction. I guess I'll have to go with reliable and powerful. If it cost me a little bit more for 2 trucks in one then so be it.
Thanks a ton!

Glad I could give you a little bit to think about there. As a work truck, both engines are excellent options. In this scenario, replacing the blown up 7.3 with another 7.3 is probably less work and a lot faster than doing a Cummins swap, where you're sourcing an engine, needed wiring, making the electronics all work, fabricating mounts, etc. vs a drop in 7.3 that gives exactly what you need right away.

BUT with a direct replacement engine, I would consider that if it's going to be used do the IPR, a compression test before you do anything, and fresh injectors with valve cover harnesses. Cheap insurance to assure reliability.

 

5.9

 

Rebuild 7.3

 

Appreciate the advice fellas! Think I'm going to stick with the 7.3 for the first build. Keep studying up for the Cummins replacement on a different vehicle down the road.