Hi everyone, I’ve been checking out Ford F350s with the 7.3 engine but came across an F450 with the same engine for a bit more money. It seems like a better deal, but I’m not sure.
First, what questions should I ask the seller? This is going to be my first truck, so I don’t want to miss anything important.
Second, are these trucks reliable? I’ve heard great things about the 7.3 engine, but this one has around 230,000 miles. Does that mean it’s close to giving out?
They’re really reliable. The engine itself can last a long time, but you’ll likely need to maintain other parts of the truck. I bought a 2001 with 250k miles earlier this year and had to change the fluids, filters, ball joints, shocks, and some front-end parts. It’s been great since then.
Glow plugs can also be an issue, so I’m replacing mine soon. The good thing about the 7.3 is that it’s easier and cheaper to work on compared to modern engines. Just make sure you’re ready to put some work into it.
@Vale
Thanks for the info! Do you remember how much you spent on the maintenance you mentioned?
Keir said:
@Vale
Thanks for the info! Do you remember how much you spent on the maintenance you mentioned?
I did all the work myself, so I saved quite a bit. For ball joints, shocks, and a few other front-end parts, I spent around $350-$500. Then there’s the cost of synthetic oil, an oil filter, and a fuel filter.
Keep in mind, not all of these things might need replacing right away, but check the tires too. A dually like the F450 has six tires, so replacing them can be pricey if they’re worn out.
Keir said:
@Vale
Thanks for the info! Do you remember how much you spent on the maintenance you mentioned?
If you’re doing it yourself, fluids are about $100 each, ball joints might be around $400, and shocks are roughly $100 per corner. If you go to a shop, expect to pay more.
What are you planning to use it for? F350s, and especially F450s, can ride rough, so they’re not the best for casual driving.
Ari said:
What are you planning to use it for? F350s, and especially F450s, can ride rough, so they’re not the best for casual driving.
I’ve heard that before. Is the ride really that bad? I drive a 2019 Jeep Wrangler with a lift and big tires, and it’s pretty bumpy. Would the F250 be a better choice? Does it tow as much as the 350?
@Keir
F350s and F450s definitely ride rougher than the Wrangler. An F250 might be better for you, but it won’t have the same towing capacity as the F350.
Ari said:
@Keir
F350s and F450s definitely ride rougher than the Wrangler. An F250 might be better for you, but it won’t have the same towing capacity as the F350.
I wouldn’t underestimate how rough the ride can be. I’ve borrowed a relative’s F450, and when it’s not towing, every bump feels like a jolt to your spine. Drinks will spill, and you’ll start hating every pothole. An F350 is better but still rough. You might want to think about this carefully.
Ari said:
@Keir
F350s and F450s definitely ride rougher than the Wrangler. An F250 might be better for you, but it won’t have the same towing capacity as the F350.
It also depends on whether the F450 you’re looking at is a pickup or a cab-and-chassis. Pickups are closer to the F350 in ride quality, while cab-and-chassis trucks are built for heavy-duty use and ride much rougher without weight in the back.
@Juno
Since it’s a 7.3, it’s likely a cab-and-chassis model because F450 pickups didn’t come out until 2008. Keep in mind, the suspension on an F450 is stiffer than on an F350, even if they look similar.
@Keir
I haven’t been in an older F450, but compared to a modern Jeep, you might be in for a surprise. These older trucks can be pretty harsh.
@Keir
Without weight in the bed or a trailer, my F450 rides extremely rough. You’ll feel every little bump.
Thanks for sharing this! Make sure to check if the truck has been tuned. If it’s lifted with big tires, there’s a good chance it might have been.
Laine said:
Thanks for sharing this! Make sure to check if the truck has been tuned. If it’s lifted with big tires, there’s a good chance it might have been.
Good idea, I’ll definitely ask the seller about that.
@Keir
If it hasn’t been tuned, it might be worth considering. Proper tuning can help with performance and prevent some wear and tear.