[jas10]

I own a 2005 right now, but I'm seriously considering selling it and getting a 2003 7.3. The one I have my eye on is a 6 speed. It has 66000 miles on it and looks and feels to be a pretty decent truck. I'd like to know what things to look for before I commit.
Thanks,
-john

 

[jas10]

Bump... anyone?

I've read several threads already, just wanted to get any 03 specific things to check before I commit.

Thanks,
-john

 

[jwb02]

why would u want to get rid of 05?

 

[Tailgate]

He wants the sweet 7.3 Engine, most likely. I can understand that. However, if he were looking at swapping an '05 6.0 for a '03 6.0...I would think he's crazy. The other thing could be a much lower monthly payment as well.

What to look for? I guess the same as any used vehicle. I would probably have them change the ATF and filter, Coolant, and do a brake job for you as it's likely these haven't been done. Heck, make 'em do an oil change too (although that's easy to check...if the oil is golden, it's new oil).

Just know going in that you will likely need to buy new aftermarket shocks like KYB, Edelbrocks, Ranchos, or Bilsteins...and possibly even a rear swaybar from Hellwig. This will substantially better your ride.

Also, I'd swap out the 7.3 airbox for the retrofitted Ford AIS like what you have in your 6.0. It'll only cost you $200 and about 30 minutes to install yourself (not hard at all, just takes a few minutes).

 

[smpcompdude5898]

Well, I own an 03 with 60000 miles on it and I love it. I would dig up anything I could about it's past and maintenance. If it was well cared for it should be with you for the long haul.

/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/phoney.gifI'm jealous of the six speed. I was trying to find one at the time and they seemed to be extinct in this area. /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif


Johnny

 

[jas10]

Yeah, much lower payments - as in none /ubbthreads/images/graemlins/biggrin.gif

Ran an OASIS and the dealer showed me the paperwork on everything he's done to it. He did open up the tranny, which worries me. Said it was grinding between 2nd and 3rd so they replaced synchros. He let me take it home last night to give it a good drive and a good look.

I've crawled all around under it and the only thing I see is a small amount of oil film on between the bellhousing and the oil pan. I hear rear main leaks are rare on the 7.3. Should I be worried about the pan gasket?

Anything else?

Thanks,
-john