looking at a couple trucks. Ive read alot on here about the powerstrokes. is 200k to many miles on these trucks. looking to spend maybe 10-15k on a truck, and this 02 f250 came up. Will be using the truck only for river trips during the summer...no stop and go. Also saw a dodge 3500 i like with 160k around the same price.

I've seen plenty for sale with mid-upper 200K still running fine.

The thing to watch out for is:
1) Has the truck been overtuned with electronic power adders?
2) Does it have a K&N intake on it or some other cheap intake? If so, run. K&N and the cheapies let in WAY too much dirt.
3) How healthy is the transmission?

What year Dodge? If it's the Common Rail motor buy it. Or better yet buy both. That way when the 7.3 bites the dust put the Cummins in its place.

'04 dually... I may just finance something newer. Just starting to look around.

You don't need a dually for your boat. 2500/3500 SRW would be a better choice. I owned a 2003 3500 SRW, was a great truck, wish I still had it. I just traded a 2006 Ram Cummins, great motor and very modable with daily drivers up to 800-900hp.

There are some good sites on the web with tips for inspecting older PSD's. One biggie is to look for oil leakage around the base of the turbo where it mounts in the aft part of the "v". Also test the coolant to see if PO's have used the proper additive.

I'm far more worried about high mileage automatic transmissions since there isn't a whole lot you can do to inspect them other than checking for burnt fluid and doing a careful road test.

I am at 180K, so far no problems, but I do keep an extra CAS sensor in the glovebox, run lubricity additive in it, and check oil often. It uses about 3 quarts every 4000 miles.

All in all, a 7.3 is a good place to start if you're looking for an affordable diesel.

Randy

better yet for a lil fun when your not boating u can chain that FORD up to the dog dodge and pull that B!@tch around like it aint even there

Now that is funny.........

The PSD's with ~150k that are automatics present a transmission liability.

In reality the 7.3's are considered one of the most reliable diesels around. They are simple, loud, and adequately powered. I sought out the 7.3 because of it's reputation. A LOT of these trucks have 200, 300, 400k miles on them.

Short comings are in the front suspension (they are brutal on ball joints, and other components). Also - a LOT of oil pans develop leaks if they are exposed to salty environments....

I LOVE MINE........I have 10X,xxx on it and will be keeping it for a while....

Well put. Seaford has a way with words.