FordExcursions.com Forums
new_2_fords
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• Gladewater, TX, USA |
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• Registered on 7/31/2008 |
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• 1 post |
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 Posted:7/31/2008 10:16 |
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Greetings Everyone!
As my handle suggests I am new to Fords and know little about their diesel engines. I'm thinking of buying an Excursion and could use some input/advice from owners.
The scenario: I"m in communications construction and splice fiber optic cable. I have a 14' enclosed trailer that serves as my splicing lab; it weighs around 6500 loaded. Most splice locations are off-road and frequently in mud or snow so 2wd is not an option.
So - I need input on engine choice - 7.3 or 6.0 - which is more torky? which will deliver the best mpg? How many miles might one expect from each assuming it's been properly maintained? Any issues that I need to look for/be aware of?
Thanks Guys!
Dan |
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aklim
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• Hartford, WI, USA |
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• Registered on 2/20/2006 |
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• 133 posts |
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Posted:7/31/2008 10:27 |
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I chose the 7.3 because the 6.0 had a bad rep
01 Excursion. Gauges with AIH Delete, AIS Air Filter system, CCV Mod, 4' MBRP, BTS Trans, 6.0L Trans Cooler and Intercooler, DP-Tuner F6 chip, ITP In Tank Mod and Boost Annihilator, Diesel Innovation's Regulated Fuel kit, BTS Big Oil system, GTP38R Turbo with 1.15 A/R housing and BDP Stage II AC injectors. Bilstein Shocks with U code front and A code Rear. Billet thermostat housing |
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NASCAR-Mike
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• Richmond, VA, USA |
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• Registered on 9/14/2005 |
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• 20 posts |
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Posted:7/31/2008 10:28 |
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Either the 7.3 or 6.0 will work fine for you. The 6.0 has more torque and more horsepower. 6.0 is rated at 325HP and 560 torque.
The 6.0 gets better mileage than the 7.3 but not significatly more. I have no major mods to my 05 X except a free flow muffler (Walker BTM) and a accufab elbow and I am getting 20.8 MPG loaded with wife, 4 kids and a crap load of suitcases and toys. Your mileage will be lower if towing a trailer.
The 7.3 had some problems with the crank position sensor going bad but is an easy fix. Most 7.3 owners keep a spare CPS and wrench in their glovebox just in case.
The 6.0 had some issues with head gaskets but it was mainly people who install performance chips in their computer and overboost the engine.
In my opinion, the 6.0 is substantially quieter than the 7.3.
Both engines should last will past the 300k mark. The transmission in the 7.3 was a four speed and the 6.0 has a five speed.
2005 Ford Excursion Eddie Bauer 6.0 diesel
1996 Ford Crown Victoria P74
1994 Ford Mustang GT 5.0 SUPERCHARGED |
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monsta
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• The Big Island, HI, USA |
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• Registered on 1/5/2002 |
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• 1,056 posts |
• 2 Vehicles
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Posted:8/1/2008 11:45 |
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It's a tough call.
You can almost make the choice based on the tranny. The 5R110 5-speed (6.0L) is superior to the 4R100 found behind the 7.3L. But the 7.3L is a bit easier to maintain, has a better reputation overall for durability and reliability.
Early 6.0's (03 mainly) had more problems than just the head gaskets. Turbos and injectors to name a few. It's warranty claims almost bankrupted Ford and created the separation that now exists between them and International, who makes the engine for them.
Later years were better as bugs got worked out but the reputation persists to this day. I wouldn't hesitate to purchase an 05 6.0L. You likely find one in better condition and with lower miles than if you were to look for a 7.3L.
Both engines can be tuned and hopped-up to make insane power. (depending on how deep your pockets are though)
It all really comes down to your budget. The 7.3L will be cheaper but older, of course. The 6.0L Excursions will probably be easier to find.
All Excursions' value are in the toilet now, so it is a great time to buy. You may even want to consider a V10. The cost savings in initial purchase and the price difference in fuel really puts the advantage towards the gas powered Excursions now. Something that wasn't true just 2+ years ago. 
With diesel nearly 25% more in most markets around the country, the fuel mileage advantage has disappeared and you are still faced with higher maintenance and repair costs.
The V10 has proven itself for over 11 years that it is durable, economical, smooth, quiet and trouble-free. Early (00) V10s...well... ALL Triton engines had sparkplugs that could blow out but that was fixed in 01 and even in the early models, could be "fixed" with a little preventative maintenance. The V10 has a factory design life of 250K before rebuild.
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