Ford 7.3L Diesel vs V10

[tbrady]

So, looking at getting a different truck and have zero'd in on something like 2000-2002 F250/350 Super Duty Crew Cab.  Any thoughts on whether to go with the 7.3 diesel or the V10?  The last diesel I had was an early 90's F250 and that engine gave me a fit until I got rid of the truck...

I will be using the truck to pull a 6k pound travel trailer from time to time but for the most part it is just for hunting/biking etc...


And no, haven't really considered the other brands.   My main criteria is under 10k, crew cab, 4wd and full size.

[Stein]

I think your price will push you toward gas.  I was looking at the same thing and ended up with a smaller truck and was happy with the decision.  If you don't pull much, you can save a bunch on the purchase price, fuel and maintenance going with a lighter duty and gas.

[bod]

Get a newer Tundra

[zwickeyman]

INHO

I had a 1999 F-250 with the v-10. Truck was really fast but didn't pull my camp trailer worth a chit. Traded it for a 97 F-350 with the stroke and was very happy

[cbond3318]

I own an O3' V10 SuperCrew 350. Been a great truck, pulled my 5-6K cargo trailer for work just dandy. It gets worked pretty good with my 13k 5th wheel behind it.

Other than COP's  and alternator it has been trouble free.

9.5 MPG no matter what you do, coasting downhill or wrapped out pulling uphill.

I have no experience with the 7.3.....


@syoungs can provide some great input on both...

[C-Money]

I've had a F-350 V10 for 9 years now. Its been great. Yes...yes...It won't pull heavier loads with the authority the diesel pickup owners describe, especially in the mountain passes. But....I've always got to where I'm going, never felt under powered, and have made many enjoyable trips. I traded a diesel that I owned for a long time in on the V10. It was about the time gas was hitting $4 for the first time. After trade, I walked away with a 4yo 4x4 F350 6speed manual pickup for around $8000. The money you will save on the initial investment would be worth going V10. A diesel dose not sound like a necessity from what you describe in your OP. You will be more than fine with a 6000lb trailer, and will tow with ease. Busses use the V10 and rack up crazy amounts of mileage on them. Long story short, I like my V10, and have pulled enough campers, hauled enough hay, and stock to give a good opinion.

[C-Money]

Wanted to add...took a little after driving an old 6.9 diesel for so long, to train my ears/brain on when to shift the V10. The V10 really makes its power well above 2000rpm. When pulling a load, gotta hit the gas pedal and let the motor eat to make ponys.

[2labs]

My buds motor home has tons of power (v-10) but spits spark plugs! Just something to be aware of. 7.3 would be my choice if you can find one! I have a 99 F-350 7.3 that will be my last truck!

[Timberstalker]

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,216182.0.html

Not exactly what you described, but it's close.

Good luck finding what you want.

[Mudman]

Get the best low mileage stick shift.  Auto trans are not great in that vintage and v-10 and spark plugs beware.

[2labs]

http://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php/topic,216182.0.html

Not exactly what you described, but it's close.

Good luck finding what you want.

Wow, jump on that!

[Buzz2401]

Sounds like the V10 would meet your needs nicely.  You won't gain much going with the 7.3L it has only an extra 75lb ft of torque. They are great motors but not worth the premium price or the additional upkeep.

[Mudman]

Sounds like the V10 would meet your needs nicely.  You won't gain much going with the 7.3L it has only an extra 75lb ft of torque. They are great motors but not worth the premium price or the additional upkeep.

#'s can lie. Trust me it is a big difference.  4500rpm vs 2400rpm as well.  A good v-10 will fit OP well but after running one for several years I wouldn't want it screaming in my ear from gas station to station.

[syoungs]

I went from a tuned 7.3 for a tuned 3 valve v10, I don't regret it at all, I've got friends with the older v10, and they tow great,few small issues that have been figured out very well by now, wouldn't hesitate at all to buy one.

The 7.3s are all getting pretty used up now a days, time bombs waiting to cost you thousands of dollars if the previous owner hadn't Taken care of the big ticket items yet.

[tbrady]

Get a newer Tundra

Yeah, I have a 2000 Tundra now and love it...  I gotta wait a few more years before getting a new one.

Thanks for all the input guys.  Unfortunately the one posted on HW isn't a crew cab which I need to fit all the kiddos.