Ford F350 Question
 

Searched and can't find the answer.

I seem to see a lot of 2003 F-350's with both the 7.3, and the 6.0. Did they change mid-year?? From everything I have read I woudl prefer the 7.3 - plus you see that size engine in the older trucks which are more in my price range.

Even NADA has both options - I just found that strange, and want to make sure, if I am traveling to buy a truck that I am not wasting my time.

Thanks,

Eric

Late-year change. The 6.0 did have some issues but if the truck is operating OK it either didn't have them or they have been remedies. I had several things handled under warranty including injectors and the rear main seal, as well as the glow-plug harness and a coolant leak (the biggest issue of all). Other than that, mine ran great. The 6.0 is stonger & quieter and has a better transmission.

A 7.3L PSD 2003 SuperDuty is one of the most desirable trucks available, and prepare to pay for that fact. Tried and true rattle motor fans really like the 7.3, and the last of the 2003s being the newest available trucks with them, especially low mileage versions do fetch a premium.

The mid year 2003 change also involved the turnsignals/running lamps in the big mirrors on the SuperDutys; which is an easy way to spot them from a distance.

You can have mine...it's noisy, stinks, vibrates, costs a billion dollars to repair, sluggish.

Going on the block next week and good riddance.

That was what I needed to know - that it was a late year change. I have done my research on which engine is better/quieter/etc... and for whatever reason I have a better feeling about having a 7.3 - just a reaction (plus the older trucks are more in my range). Noise doesn't bother me (I am sure it is quieter than my 97 3500 Chevy with 292k on it.), and I want a manual. Appreciate the input.

Yeah - i have noticed the premium - an 05 with 100k on it is the same price half the time as the 03 with 100k. Thanks for the tip on the mirrors/turn signals.

I wouldn't open your ad with that.

[QUOTE=seafordguy;2428801]That was what I needed to know - that it was a late year change. I have done my research on which engine is better/quieter/etc... and for whatever reason I have a better feeling about having a 7.3 - just a reaction (plus the older trucks are more in my range). Noise doesn't bother me (I am sure it is quieter than my 97 3500 Chevy with 292k on it.), and I want a manual. Appreciate the input.



I have a better feeling about having a 7.3 - you said it all right there ... got a few 7.3s and none of them have ever back back to the dealer ... they run & run & run .. 3,000 mile oil changes , good fuel, and keep a spare fuel filter under the seat:cool-smiley-011:

[QUOTE=RunninHotRacing158;2428965]
That just seems to be the sentiment of almost all the 7.3 owners. Nothing to complain about.

Thanks,

Eric

the Ford 6.0 diesel has had 98 Technical service bulletins issued most relating to the early 6.0's.

I'm not a Ford guy, however I wouldn't hesitate to buy a late model 7.3 Ford Diesel if I was going where service is hard to find, like Mexico for instance.

Can't go wrong with the 7.3. The 6.0 is quieter, more powerful but they did have their problems. I had over 115,000 miles without a problem with my 03 6.0. Since then I've replaced 4 injectors, the cooling fan and a solenoid for the vacuum pump. Injectors are 400.00 each after a 300.00 core charge. I think I'd go with a Cummins next.

What style truck are you looking for? I'm looking to sell my 2000 f-350 reg. cab long bed shortly.

It has a 6speed, but is also a xlt which is somewhat rarer. Truck has a 4 inch lift, and I have the 2005 front bumper, grill, and headlights, plus lots extras.