I registered on this site a little over a year ago with plans on buying a Powerstroke SRW. Life happened and I didn't get it. I am looking again and can't decide between an older, 2002-03 7.3, or a newer, 2005-06 6.0. I like the cummins engine but the Ford is more comfortable for the family as the mega cab won't fit in my garage. I have read good and bad about both but not any real opinions from owners. Here's what it will be used for....

16ft. car hauler
14ft. trailer w/ skid loader
possible 34-36 ft. camper
Definitely an SCT tuner

Thanks.

 

7.3s are work horses....never had a 6.0 but have heard both sides of the story some guys have to do everything by 100k...others hit 200k and barely touch it and love it

 

i have heard nothing but bad about the 6.0. My berighbor has a 05 6.0 and has replaced 3 turbos and had fuel issues. My boss at work bought a 06, 6.0 and traded it in for a 97 7.3, becuase the truck was in the shop more then driven. Before i bought my 5.9 cummins i did alot of research, i've always been a ford guy. i wanted something newer and reliable so i went with 6spd 5.9 cummins. My dad has a 01 7.3 and hasnt had any problems at all except wear and tear. So if i were you and wanted a ford diesel 03 or older 7.3. Good luck

 

Its up to you... With a EGR delete and a set of head studs the 6.0's are good to around 450-500 hp with just a tuner...

7.3 with a intake, exhaust, chip will max out at about 300-320hp...

I have well over a million miles in the 7.3 and other then HP faliures its never let me down.

 

I own a cummins but I have worked on, and know guys that own 7.3's and 6.0's and if was in the market for a ford it sure as heck wouldnt be a 6.0 but thats just my opinion.

 

6.0's are good...if you do an EGR delete, SCT tuner and a set of ARP headstuds....every truck is different though. The 7.3's are definently work horses but get crappy mpg...great for towing though. If you do get a 6.0 you'll have to put some more $ into it to get it to not break down so much and run better.

 

my 7.3 has gotten 22.5 mpg

 

LOL... ok...

 

22.5
Id be happy to hit 16

 

Thanks for the info, and opinions. I'm fairly mechanical, can I do the studs, or do I need to have the cab off. I know there is very little space to work on the 6.0. It sounds like I will be looking at the 6.0, I know I am going to want the HP. I also like the factory upfitter switches and trailer brake control; forgot to mention a plow and salter.


CSIPSD

If there is a limit on the HP for the 7.3, does that mean the TQ is limited too?