01-03-2008, 05:58 PM
The PSD 7.3 offered in the 1999-early 2003 is nearly indestructible and I believe is essentially the same as the PSD 7.3 offered in the 95-99 Fords. The 6.0, created due to stricter emissions requirements, was offered from late 03 through 07 and were absolute junk, prone to leaking oil, faulty injectors, hydrolock (from fuel dumping into the crankcase) amongst other things. That is why you can find those so cheaply - you're pretty much guaranteed to have problems. I could have gotten an 05 6.0 for the price paid for my 00 7.3, but I chose the reliable one.
I'd also point out that a big-ass diesel truck is overkill for a one-car trailer. The ONLY reason that I got mine is because I know that I intend on having a two-car trailer for Linds' and my track cars, hopefully within the next year or so.
Otherwise, I would have been looking for a late-model F150 or similar. I have towed with RJ's F150, Pete's F150, John Chapin's Lightning, my old 83 GMC, and my F250. All of them were competent and did the job, but if I were looking for one to drive on a regular basis and not have an impending NEED for towing two cars, I'd definitely go with the smaller gasser. It's easier and cheaper to find 89 octane, you don't have to learn the intracacies of a diesel or the other maintenance habits, and it will be easier to find used parts in the long run. Not to mention, the truck itself will be easier to drive and have a lower initial cost.
I'd also point out that a big-ass diesel truck is overkill for a one-car trailer. The ONLY reason that I got mine is because I know that I intend on having a two-car trailer for Linds' and my track cars, hopefully within the next year or so.
Otherwise, I would have been looking for a late-model F150 or similar. I have towed with RJ's F150, Pete's F150, John Chapin's Lightning, my old 83 GMC, and my F250. All of them were competent and did the job, but if I were looking for one to drive on a regular basis and not have an impending NEED for towing two cars, I'd definitely go with the smaller gasser. It's easier and cheaper to find 89 octane, you don't have to learn the intracacies of a diesel or the other maintenance habits, and it will be easier to find used parts in the long run. Not to mention, the truck itself will be easier to drive and have a lower initial cost.