Hello all,
I've talked with some of you recently about what Dodge diesel I'd like, pros and cons, etc.

To make things fair, I'm a odd person. I like Dodges and Ford. Yes, I could be sick in the head, or just odd. I prefer odd, with a tea spoon of sick in the head.

Anyhow, I've talked with some Ford people about their 99-03 7.3 V8 PS. After looking around here at home, its easier for me to get a 2000 or 2001 7.3, w/ 6spd, (4wd or not) with the ext. cab (not super cab) for around 8-13k. Now...this is cheaper than a Dodge. On top of it, these trucks have far less mileage than the Dodges in my area.

Am I going crazy? Or do I just love both trucks and can't decide!?!?

 

The 7.3 powerstroke is a solid engine, and they are pretty good trucks. I am just really partial to an I-6 diesel. Honestly, a 7.3 powerstroke would likely give you less problems than a 24 valve cummins because of the VP 44 and lift pump issues . I'd say buy the one that makes the most sence to you.

Eric

 

They are both good trucks especially for the average guy, I have owned a 96 ps a 99 ps and a 2005 ps the 96 and 99 where great the 05 was junk (motor).

 

I think it's just supply and demand. The dodges take in a higher price because the damand is great and supply is limited because people hold onto them, and the fords are all over the place for sale. I started looking at those exact years when I was looking to buy a truck, but I was set on a cummins, so I didn't do it.

 

If you just have to have a Ford PS, those years of em would definetely be the ones to get. The 7.3 has proved to be a good engine.

But on the other hand I would rather see you get a Dodge Cummins of course.

 

Just make sure you carry a couple of new Cam Position Sensors in the glovebox.

 

those are the best years for ford...just dont let people try and convince u that u will suddenly have some solid tank of a truck....glow plus, cam position sensors, ball joints, front allignment issues!, loose steering, and a weak injection system that is driven by oil where u need to push the pedal halfway before the truck moves, oh yeah and u will spend all day trying to get out of a parking spot cause those things can't turn....the interiors are the same unless u go lariat or king ranch

i was thinking about this too and i would get it only in KR (2003 i think) , or a lariat

 

To give example, there is a 2001 2500, 4x4 6spd for sale. 216k, asking price is $12960.

Really interested, although I doubt they'd finance me.

*sigh*

 

For all the crap we give ford guys the 6.9,7.3 IDI- the PS were/are good solid engines.
Joe

 

all my buddies drive between 99-03 fords with the 7.3. All have had good luck with there truck. I liked the looks of my truck and of course the cummins. My truck also drives a lot better. As far as the higher price, well good STUFF ain't cheap and cheap STUFF aint good

 

Around here you can pick up older Dodge pickups with the Cummins and 5 speed man. for a song. Just about a dime a dozen.

 

If you're going to mod the motor, stay away from the 01-03s. The 99-00 is what you're after. Also keep in mind that there is an early 99 which has smaller injectors and a smaller turbo, as well as a few other minor things. The smaller turbo setup spools faster and is less prone to surge under load. Until recently there was not bolt on turbos for them, but now is not the case. Make sure you get a 6spd as none of the big 3 makes a decent auto.

 

Ur lucky then, because there never for sale for cheap around here.

 

How long you want to keep it is a factor, also. There may be some million mile Fords out there, but I don't know about them.

 

I've seen a few 7.3s at or around 500k miles. IMO the 7.3 is a solid engine that will last you many miles. you really have nothing to worry about engine wise on them except the CPS.. and you are eliminating the only other weak point, the auto trans with the 6spd, which is rock solid. glow plugs aren't really a thing to worry about on them, it's more the glow plug relay which acts up.