I recently ordered a 2000 Excursion PSD all options, at an OK price. I am having second thoughts due to Ford's overstock/slowing down the assembly line and available Ford subsidized financing (4.9% 60 Mo.) I'm wondering if resale value will plummet, rebates galore, 2001 upgrades I should have waited for, etc. Also does the PSD noise get old? Seems Ok on the freeway. What are you folks getting MPG wise ? I've been a Ford man for 30 years but hope this is not too extreem a vehicle. Im replacing a 87 Taurus wagon,hoping to increase my family of 5's comfort and SAFETY. All honest input appriciated. Thanks
Getting cold feet, huh? I have the 99 truck built in 98 and I love it. As far as the diesel goes, I'll give you two weeks of paranoid listening to all the "strange" noises before you become a "Diesel Head". I don't even know why I post in here because I only can afford the truck.
The overstock situation will definitely lower the selling price, but I would think only until there is no overstock. I saw an ad from a Little Rock, Arkansas dealer for $6000 under MSRP on in-stock Excursions (of course, they may not have any in stock!). I doubt it will change the resale.
My guess is that manufacturers change allotments in response to sales all the time and Ford just got more attention because of the criticism they have received from the 'politically correct' over the Excursion.
I can't help you on 2001 changes - no idea.
I notice the PSD noise when the engine is cold, but otherwise it is not a problem. Cruising at 70, you won't be able to tell it is a diesel.
My trip computer is indicating 15.5 mpg. That is city driving, a fair amount of idling and a few miles interstate. I have yet to fill the tank since I have only driven it about 500 miles since I bought it.
If you haven't been driving trucks or larger SUVs, it will take some time to adjust to the size and ride. This is a truck and although it is dampened considerably to ride better and quieter, you won't mistake it for a car. Turning around and parking are not for the timid, but I haven't had any problems. I moved up from a Suburban.
You will love the extra room for you and your family. You can all stretch out and still have plenty of storage & luggage space.
I doubt there will be an "oversupply" of PSD Excursions, especially the Limiteds.
In my view, the Excursion is about the most crashworthy vehicle on the road. That is especially true for me since I added the Ramsey winch mount. Between the blocker beam and the winch mount, the front end is a wall of steel that rides about a foot above everyone else. No wonder Consumers Report is yelling about "unfair" survivability of these vehicles.
I am getting 21 MPG for fuel economy. This is because of the mods primarily.
The diesel "noise" is not objectionable to me. I even added a Dynomax muffler which increased the noise level on accelaration. Also increased the power and MPGS. The stock muffler is very quiet if that is a concern.
The Excursion is built on a truck frame. It will handle and act like a truck although it is as comfortable as any luxury car. You must learn to drive with mirrors and you have to pay attention ALL the time. If you don't like trucks or are concerned about handlng one, you may want something smaller and built on a car frame as most SUVs are now constructed.
I will say my Excursion is the best vehicle I have owned. It is pure pleasure and so versatile.
Buy it. I had a '96 F-350 4x4 srw CC with a fiberglas cap which at the time was the absolute ultimate family hauler/tow vehicle/hunting fishing truck. My wife and I drove it for just over 4 calendar years and 97K miles and just traded it for a y2x excursion limited with all available options. Except for fuel and maintenance (pm only), it cost me LESS than $3,200 per year to own and drive that vehicle. We do not finance, so that does not include the cost of money.
The excursion really is an upgrade. And I expect to do as well dollarwise on this one too - because it is the best heavy duty vehicle currently available, which IMHO is the key to holding value. The real benefit is getting to own and use the best vehicle available too. Its the best of both worlds.
Good luck.
[This message has been edited by possum (edited 05-21-2000).]
__________________
Y2K PSD Excursion Limited, all options. The War Wagon
This was my first Diesel vehicle and I "upgraded" from an Aerostar van. At first the size of these are a bit intimidating, but you get used to it fast (after about 10 miles ). I love the sound of the diesel! They are a bit noisey in the morning, but once warmed-up they are actually pretty quite. Like it has been said earlier, on the freeway at cruising speeds you do not even know its there, at least until you need to pass someone while towing your boat, then that POWER tells you its there.
My mileage has been declining for some reason. The first 2 tanks were at about 15, the last 2 at about 14.5. Hopefully this trend will not continue!
------------------
4X2 Estate Green Limited PSD Excursion. CD Changer, L/S 3.73 Differential, PSD Badging, Stull Grille. Plate # "4TRESS". Pyro, Boost, Trans Temp & Pillar Mount ordered 5/02. Ordered 2/21; Born 3/17; Arrived at Dealer 3/27; Took Delivery 3/31!
I want to thank all those who replied to my questions regarding Excursion purchase. I think, since we are so close to 2001 units, I will wait and see what happens as far as upgrades. I hope to hear that the cackel, thump in front end and (somewhat) rough ride are improved. I might even consider a Suburban/Yukon XL, for it's reputed smother ride, better AC and more agile handling. I hope GM can screw it together OK. The Excursion makes the GM look dainty. All honest input appriciated, Mike.
You said you were considering a Yukon XL(Suburban) along with the EX. Just a word to remember from someone who has owned both, The Yukon is a great solo highway cruiser and better for in town use but the Yukon can not compare to the "truck factor" as hauling, towing and safety factor as the 3/4 ton EX. Every time I tow with my EX it impresses me more with the power and handling ability of my camper.
For their intended purposes both are great vehicles, you have to decide what you want them to do. Just my .02 cents worth.
------------------
Y2K excursion XLT 2wd, ordered july '99, built august '99, delivered september 9 '99, 4R100 fried & replaced at 900 miles
__________________
Y2K excursion XLT 2wd, ordered july '99, built august '99, delivered september 9 '99, 4R100 fried & replaced at 900 miles still running like a champ
AutoForums.com is the premier network of enthusiast-owned
enthusiast-operated automotive communities.
We operate more than 100 automotive forums where our users consult peers for shopping information and advice, and share
experiences and opinions as a community.
). I love the sound of the diesel! They are a bit noisey in the morning, but once warmed-up they are actually pretty quite. Like it has been said earlier, on the freeway at cruising speeds you do not even know its there, at least until you need to pass someone while towing your boat, then that POWER tells you its there.
Linear Mode
