Thoughts on a 2002 F350 7.3

[TFOGGER]

I'm looking at replacement candidates for my tired 89 F250, and came across a decent deal on a 2002 F350 Crew cab 4x4 with a 7.3. I'm interested to hear opinions from guys who have had similar trucks(known issues, general impressions). I'm not looking for "buy an XXX instead" types of advice, just want to know what to expect if I decide to make an offer on this truck. Thanks in advance!

[Gunner]

Best motor ever but be careful in boarder towns the cartels like to steal the f250 and f350.

I was thinking about selling my 2010 f150 and getting an 02 f250 7.3

[T-Giv]

As far as Fords go...the 7.3 is king.

[Dave_L]

7.3 is the engine to have. I dont know about any pitfalls that year may have but that 7.3 is the most wanted diesel engine for fords.

[milwaukeeshaker]

I have a 99 7.3 with 190,000 miles and no issues other than regular maintenance. If you don't abuse the engine, it seems "bulletproof".

[zteknik]

Like everyone else said- 7.3 by far the best motor Ford came out with. Also one of the cheaper ones to fix.

[Wulf202]

99 f250 7.3 here. 99 f350 dually former work truck. Love the truck.
Only complaints
They eat front end components yearly alignments are several hundred dollars.
Rides like a work truck until you put 800# + in it.
Everything you "feel" an issue it feels like the drivers wheel even if it's the passenger or rear wheels all the vibrations feel like left front. Had me chasing my tail more than once.
18 qt oil change.
I have a transition year. Adds some oddities.

18 mpg average no mods not towing. 14.5 city up to 22 highway
10 mpg towing a big heavy trailer.

Only mods are one size larger tire trailer brake control and a 4 pillar pod.

[jmg8550]

Cam sensors were recalled. Make sure it's been done. Carry a spare with you, and buy it from Ford. Aftermarket ones are junk. Make sure the glow plugs are working, you'll regret it in the winter if you don't. Great engine e, great truck otherwise.

What's the mileage?

[SouthPaw]

7.3 PS are tractors. Very reliable and others have already mentioned their 'issues.'

[Bailey Guns]

I had a 94 F350 2x2 dually with 214,000+ on it. Nothing but normal maintenance. Had an 02 for 10 years that I only put 51,000 on. The only issues I had with that truck were alternators. Ford replaced the alternator, with the same POS alternator, 4 times in the first 2 years. Always covered under warranty but a major PITA to get it towed to the dealer plus the downtime that entailed. Bought a high-end aftermarket alternator and never had another problem.

Great motor...pre DEF. If it's a good deal, buy it.