FordExcursions.com Forums
Mike Margolis
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• Hartford, CT, USA |
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• Registered on 3/4/2004 |
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• 45 posts |
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 Posted:3/4/2004 08:42 |
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I am just starting to investigate purchasing a diesel Excursion for a long family trip, we have four kids and are going cross country this summer.
I would rather buy a used one, but am concerned about the new 6.0 vs the older 7.3. So, here are are questions:
1. What model year did they start using the 6.0?
2. I have learned that the 6.0 has more power and better fuel economy. Is this true?
3. Can someone quantify the fuel economy of the 6.0? The dealer can only tell me that I should see high teens MPG.
4. I am thinking used vs. new, can save a pile of $. Is there something I should know about a new one that I don't, ie the warranty is huge and non-transferrable, etc...
5. I have read the board through, are there any things I should know before I commit to a huge investment for an Excursion?
Thanks to the experts in advance!
2003 Excursion 5.4L |
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wct_ny
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• Rochester, NY, USA |
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• Registered on 3/4/2004 |
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• 22 posts |
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Posted:3/4/2004 10:22 |
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As another newbie.. in much the same postion... I would also like to see some replies from experianced members. I also want to add a question.
While I want the "X" for towing, family trips, 4x4 in heavy snows etc. I will also use this vehicle for daily commuting to work. I am about 10 minutes from my office. How will the PSD handle short trips in winter where the engine barely warms up? I have heard that this is NOT the best way to use this engine. I live in western NY where the winters are long and cold.
thanks
Bill
Bill T
Rochester NY
2002 "X" V10- 4x4
3 teens, 1 wife, 1 great dane, 2 cats |
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RS-TX
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• Little River, TX, USA |
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• Registered on 11/22/2002 |
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• 298 posts |
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Posted:3/4/2004 11:53 |
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| Quote: | I am just starting to investigate purchasing a diesel Excursion for a long family trip, we have four kids and are going cross country this summer.
I would rather buy a used one, but am concerned about the new 6.0 vs the older 7.3. So, here are are questions:
1. What model year did they start using the 6.0? |
2003. Although some early 03 models had the 7.3
| Quote: | | 2. I have learned that the 6.0 has more power and better fuel economy. Is this true? |
Yes, in theory. It depends on who you ask. Some guys have had great success with their 6.0 PSDs and some havn't. If you are buying used, no question go with a 7.3. The used 6.0s are probably on the used lot for a reason. And that reason is probably not a good one.
| Quote: | | 3. Can someone quantify the fuel economy of the 6.0? The dealer can only tell me that I should see high teens MPG. |
MPG will vary widely. Most guys report 16-20 or so highway. My father's 2000 F250 PSD (7.3) gets in the high 17's on the highway. The X should do a little better due to the fact that it has no open bed to catch wind.
| Quote: | | 4. I am thinking used vs. new, can save a pile of $. Is there something I should know about a new one that I don't, ie the warranty is huge and non-transferrable, etc... |
Used is the way to go it you can't afford a new one. The warranty on the 7.3 engine is 100,000 miles, and I think 5 years. If you find a used PSD X with 60k miles or so you will have some miles to go while still under warranty. The warranty is transferrable. If possible look for a 2002 model if you can afford it. There were some minor upgrades to that year that combine to make it a little more desireable.
| Quote: | | 5. I have read the board through, are there any things I should know before I commit to a huge investment for an Excursion? |
It is a great vehicle. I debated for some time before buying my used X. I had a choice of V10 or PSD for only a $1000 difference. I chose the V10 because it fits my current driving patterns better than a diesel. I don't drive long trips and don't tow. I haul kids around and get groceries. (I'm a stay-at-home Dad) If the PSD fits your needs and/or you just really want it, go for it. Either way you will have a great vehicle. Mine has been extremely reliable and is easy to drive.
Ask if you can keep the X overnight and drive it around to places you will likely go. See how it will fit your lifestyle. Let the wife drive if she will have any time behind the wheel and see how she feels about it. The kids will love it. Lots of room.
| Quote: | | Thanks to the experts in advance! |
As you know by now, I don't own a diesel, but I researched both engines pretty thoroughly before buying, so I have some clue about them. My dad's F250 PSD has been a very good vehicle for him. Best of luck in your purchase.
Rick
2004 VW Jetta TDI |
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RS-TX
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• Little River, TX, USA |
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• Registered on 11/22/2002 |
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• 298 posts |
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Posted:3/4/2004 12:06 |
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| Quote: | As another newbie.. in much the same postion... I would also like to see some replies from experianced members. I also want to add a question.
While I want the "X" for towing, family trips, 4x4 in heavy snows etc. I will also use this vehicle for daily commuting to work. I am about 10 minutes from my office. How will the PSD handle short trips in winter where the engine barely warms up? I have heard that this is NOT the best way to use this engine. I live in western NY where the winters are long and cold.
thanks
Bill
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You are correct that the PSD, or any diesel for that matter, does not like short trips.
Some guys don't care and just want a diesel at all costs. They get one.
Some research every little thread of information until they have more knowledge about PSDs than the International mechanics. They usually get one - and then fret over it like it is a sick child.
Some guys decide that the little towing they do, combined with once or twice a year family trips, doesn't justify the diesel. They don't get one - and then wonder if they made the right choice.
The PSD is a wonderful engine that has been shoe-horned into a light-duty pickup/Excursion. It is not for everyone. A V10 has a lot of power and will probably do better for short trips. What it comes down to is this: What do you WANT? That is the one you should get.
I alternate between being satisfied with my V10 and wanting a PSD. The V10 has been extremely reliable, has more than enough power for me, is smooth, quiet and efficient for such a heavy vehicle. The PSD will get better mileage (how much better is a subject of much heated debate) and, most impotant of all, just sounds really cool when idling. Hearing the turbo spool up is also a nice touch. For me, the V10 is a better practical choice. My Dad's PSD is better for him. I'm glad Ford gives us a choice.
Rick
2004 VW Jetta TDI |
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JohnBoy
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• DFW, TX, USA |
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• Registered on 9/3/2002 |
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• 972 posts |
• 2 Vehicles
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Posted:3/4/2004 12:12 |
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I had an 02 7.3L 4x2 EX before my current 03 6.0 4x4 Ex...
the truck part is basically the same with a few differences... but the engine-tranny are MUCH different !
I ran a superchip microtuner on the 7.3 and had good success with the performance boost it gave me... BUT
Got a < $400 Diablo Predator for the 6.0 and OH MY GOODNESS 
They did it with this thing !
I don't sell them, don't get referal fess, just use it and ENJOY !
Sunday am going to the strip to see what kind of numbers you can turn with a 4 ton truck !
But EITHER one is the BEST travelling vehicle you could ever hope to get...
And given the fact they project gas may be $3.00 a gal by the end of the year... I'd go with the diesel if you could... diesel has always been cheaper than the cheapest regular around here...
2005 6.0L 4x4 Eddie Bauer Ex
2003 6.0L 4x4 Limited Ex - traded in (BooHoo )
"The Republicans should back off and let men marry men, women marry women, and legalize abortion. In three generations there would be no Democrats." |
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wct_ny
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• Rochester, NY, USA |
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• Registered on 3/4/2004 |
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• 22 posts |
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Posted:3/4/2004 13:37 |
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Rick
thanks for the reply. I enjoyed the way you categorized those of us making a choice with diesel or gas..  For me, the mileage, towing capacity, and engine longevity make the PSD a preferred choice over the V10. I usually drive a vehicle till it falls apart.
A few more questions to the gang...
Question 1
If I REALLY "want" the PSD, what is the price I will pay for daily commute of 10 minutes and and other misc. trips to school, grocery store etc of 20 min or less?? Remember that I also have long cold winters to add to the stress on the engine. In my situation, if the price of getting a PSD is a damaged engine, then no matter what I "WANT" I will have to get what I "need"...
Question 2
I am looking at 2001 and 2002 based on what I can afford. I understand the 2002 have some improvements over the 2001, is this true?
Question 3
I am not much of a mechanic and know little about diesels.. What are some warning signs I should be aware of when checking out a used PSD "X".
thanks again
Bill
Bill T
Rochester NY
2002 "X" V10- 4x4
3 teens, 1 wife, 1 great dane, 2 cats |
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E. Long
 
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• Subscriber since 1/1/2001 |
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• Atlanta, GA, USA |
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• Registered on 1/23/2001 |
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• 2,228 posts |
• 1 Vehicle
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Posted:3/4/2004 22:33 |
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| Quote: | Question 1
If I REALLY "want" the PSD, what is the price I will pay for daily commute of 10 minutes and and other misc. trips to school, grocery store etc of 20 min or less?? Remember that I also have long cold winters to add to the stress on the engine. In my situation, if the price of getting a PSD is a damaged engine, then no matter what I "WANT" I will have to get what I "need"... |
If you can get the engine up to operating temp, I don't see a problem with a 10 minute drive. On the cold days, let her warm up for a few minutes. I drove my PSD X for about a year to/from work and it was a 15-minute trip. I now live 35 miles from the office, so my commute is about 45 minutes one way. Get a remote start for your X, start it up a few minutes before you drive it to work in the cold mornings and you'll be fine.
| Quote: | Question 2
I am looking at 2001 and 2002 based on what I can afford. I understand the 2002 have some improvements over the 2001, is this true? |
Slight performance increase from what I can remember but the big difference are interior enhancements. 2000 and 2001 were virtually identical inside and out except for a minor increase in torque/HP and the addition of foglights in '01. '02 I believe had more electronics on the steering wheel for radio controls, "climate" control, different trim packages, etc. I would definitely go with the '02. More creature comforts, for sure.
| Quote: | Question 3
I am not much of a mechanic and know little about diesels.. What are some warning signs I should be aware of when checking out a used PSD "X". |
Look for oil leaks in the valley beneath the turbo. This is the most common place for a PSD to leak due to turbo o-rings failing. I had this problem a few times before the dealer finally got their act together and fixed it. Otherwise, there really isn't much else to look out for the 7.3 PSD, it's a engine with plenty of years under its belt, so it's more or less bulletproof.
Good luck!
-Eric
'67 Galaxie 500 - 390 FE, .030" over, FE to AOD adapter, disc brake conversion. The Daily Driver.
'00 Excursion - 7.3L PSD, LANDYOT Gen-II Radius Rods, Factory Tech Valve Body, 200K+ miles and going |
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Charles Jackson
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• Raleigh, NC, USA |
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• Registered on 12/23/2003 |
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• 71 posts |
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Posted:3/5/2004 08:01 |
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Mike,
I purchased an '01 X 7.3 PSD before Christmas last year. I have been very pleased with the vehicle. I don't tow anything but I, too, have 4 kids and we're always hauling stuff to and fro, with room to spare. I have taken it on trips from Raleigh NC to eastern shore Maryland a few times to go hunting but I mostly use it for short commutes to work (10 minutes) and errands around town. My city driving yields just over 14 MPG. On the road it got very close to 20...19 and some change.
To William's question about short hops and winter operations with the PSD, I just always go out about 10 minutes before I have to leave and crank her up. Granted our winters don't approach the severity of his, however. I plug in the block heater if it's going to be below about 25 degrees. It will warm up nicely in that short amount of time and my kids are thrilled to get in a warm vehicle for their short ride to school. I am, however, thinking about getting a remote start for 2 purposes: 1) Winter morning warm-ups 2) Summer afternoon cool-downs (to pre-cool the inside of the X before I hop in and also to cool-down the turbo after hard hot runs.)
One morning while up on eastern shore Maryland (I forgot to plug it in the night before) it was about 7 degrees when I got up to go hunting. It was somewhat difficult to start but fired up after a few tries. (I subsequently started using anti-gel for rest of this winter.) I drove to my hunting spot which is in the middle of nowhere and just left her sit there running while I hunted for 2 hours! I didn't want to take a chance on another hard start because the temps weren't really rising that much. She was sitting there quietly growling when I walked back up. I was frozen to the bone but it was nice and warm inside. I fired her up at about 5:30 am that morning and never shut her down till I got back to Raleigh at midnight.
I have to admit I was paranoid about being stranded because previously I had owned a Chevy Silverado with a 6.5 Turbo Diesel and WITHOUT a DOUBT, that engine was the worst piece of machinery I have ever owned. NEVER NEVER NEVER be tempted to go the GM route on that old 6.5 TD. I guess the D-Max is a better powerplant but I got stranded SO many times with that 6.5 TD that it's my mission in live to badmouth it! Enough of my whining. Ha.
So if I were you, I'd opt for the '01 PSD. When I was shopping around I found several '01s online ranging from mid-20K to around 30K. I got mine for $27,500 and it had 40,000 miles on it. If you think about it in terms of VALUE, that is pretty remarkable to find a vehicle like an X with a PSD and 60,000 worth of waranty left on it, for that price range. I'm into value and I think the '01 PSD offers it.
Go for the growl. Good solid value and it also turns a few heads.
Good Luck.
'01 X Limited w/PSD - STOCK all the way..and plan to stay that way. Pockets turned inside out with 4 kids! |
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Douglas Dircks
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• New Richland, MN, USA |
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• Registered on 11/13/2003 |
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• 118 posts |
• 1 Vehicle
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Posted:3/5/2004 20:01 |
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2000's and 2001's have stronger motors. Very early in the 2002 MY Ford swichted from forged rods to powder coated rods. 99% of the time the powder coated rods will hold up when stock. Add propane or nos and you will need forged rods. Most of time the difference is nill but if you plan to heavily modify you need the forged rods.
The 99 F250 PSD has a topper and gets 15mpg on average
The 00 X PSD gets at least 15mpg up to 20mpg, both 4x4.
I would be nervous with the 6.0 especially low mile ones, buybacks!!!
00 Excursion Limited 4x4 PSD 265/75/16 Ravo's Centerline rims Python 871XP
99 F250 x-cab short bed XLT 4x4 PSD 295/75/16 American Racing rims Viper 550 ESP stainless steel MAAP nerf bars Putco four piece grill inserts bumper poles and mud flaps air bags triple pillar pod Autometer Ultra Light fiberglass tannue cover and topper programmed pcm pulling 22 psi
99 F350 crew cab long bed drw Lariat 4x4 PSD 255/85/16 Python 871XP AIS fold down fifth wheel ball |
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