Question for you diesel guys...

**nut6778** · 01-24-2009, 04:35 PM

I'm looking into the used Diesel market, and was wondering which to go with. I've narrowed it down to Ford. Basically cuz I don't like the new Chevy front end and well...I just can't see myself driving a Dodge.
So, question is, should I get an older 7.3L or the newer 6.0L? Keep in mind that the prices are the same ($12K-$15K), mileage is the same (100K-150K), the only difference is the year.
Which one is the stronger engine? Longevity? Anyone have MPG data for either? I have another month or so before I act on this, I'm just trying to make a good decision.
And for the Chevy guys...I would get the Duramax if the truck weren't so dang ugly (personal opinioin)!

**NaviDyn** · 04-22-2009, 07:08 AM

Diesel engines are subjected to the same rules of fluid dynamics as gas engines. The 7.3 International engine has more grunt than the newer 6.0, but the 6.0 has more horsepower. Do you really need a lot of horsepower? The 6.0 has a few bugs, as new powerplants go, but most have been worked out by now. Unless you find a low milage truck, and it just isn't worn in enough.

If you are looking at something as old as 2002 Ford, why not get a GM that old? I thought the Duramax was already out.

The Cummins will make more torque and horsepower than you could every possibly use with a bigger turbo, but then you have to buy a Dodge truck.

MPG and longetivity for all will go beyond any gas powerplant with proper maintenance. And once again, milage can and will vary by how you drive it. Jack rabbit starts= poor fuel effeciency. More black smoke=more fuel though the combustion chamber.

**zmg00camaross** · 04-22-2009, 07:28 AM

6.0 liters are junk. 7.3 is a better choice and the best choice is a cummins

**b.lee** · 04-22-2009, 07:29 AM

x2 on the cummins. only medium duty engine in a light duty truck

**Wesman** · 04-22-2009, 04:11 PM

Duramax or Cummins.

Even a 2001 Duramax (first body style) has 300HP and 520TQ, which is more than the Ford 7.3 ever had. And the Duramax is much more refined and quiet, plus it has the Allison trans behind it. It an awesome combo.

**RedSmokey** · 04-23-2009, 06:44 AM

7.3 will last. Are you going to be towing a lot, or more for performane. The 6.0 you can do headstuds and an EGR delete and you fixed its flaws. And the 6.0 with a custom tune will put down power, and the auto trans wont go out (like a dodge). A 7.3 will tow great and they last. If your working/hauling i would go with the 7.3, if its more the occasional tow and just a driver i would go with the 6.0 and stud it and do EGR delete.

**zmg00camaross** · 04-23-2009, 07:05 AM

Why be stroken when you could be cummin. That's alot of work
For your new truck to install head studs. If I had to get a powerjoke then it would be a 7.3

**RedSmokey** · 04-23-2009, 07:10 AM

Yea i guess, most guys just get the studs done under warranty then give the tech the new studs to put in instead of the stock ones... And i own a 7.3, they will take the beating and come back for more

**TARZAN** · 05-02-2009, 01:31 PM

7.3, just don't put all the aftermarket crap out there on it, and it'll be fine.

-Will

**NaviDyn** · 05-26-2009, 10:59 PM

Like I said, the problem with Cummins is you have to buy a Dodge truck. Hey, Al Bundy would be proud.

**nut6778** · 05-29-2009, 11:13 PM

Sorry guys...Been a while since I've been on the site. Had some personal stuff to deal with and all...

Just to let you know, I ended up getting an '01 Chevy K2500 HD. Not a diesel, a 6.0L. I couldn't pass up the price. It was my neighbors truck, and I know it was well taken care of. Thanks for all the input, I'm still in the diesel market, but I'm gonna put a few miles on this truck 1st.

**nut6778** · 05-29-2009, 11:15 PM

BTW... I am definately looking into the 02-early 03 7.3L F250 or F350. All the research has been pointing to them. The Cummins was a close 2nd, but as stated previously it's wrapped in a Dodge...poor thing.