I'm considering buying a 2004 Excursion. 6.0 PSD with 156,000 miles for $14,500. And being that it's a 6.0 I'm still hesitant.

So here is what I know so far: I'm buying from the original owner, they have all the original paperwork.
The Head gasket and bolts were replaced under Ford warranty.
The Turbo has been rebuilt under Ford warranty.
The EGR valve was replaced under Ford warranty.
Fuel pump and one of the injectors was replaced outside of warranty by a qualified diesel shop in town.
Oil pump was also replaced by the same diesel shop.

They have agreed to let me take the truck to a qualified diesel shop for inspection. Inspection takes 3hrs and costs $350 from my pocket. My main concern is the notorious 6.0 PSD. Having the Head studs replaced under warranty, did Ford use OEM head studs again that are prone to fail? I'm afraid that I'm going to throw $350 towards the inspection and everything is going to turn out horribly.

Now about me. I'm not crazy about doing my own mechanical work. I can, but I dont love it. Maybe the 6.0 isnt for me then? I'm willing to take care of the 6.0 but only if it's willing to take care of me.

 

if it was under warranty they would have used factory head bolts. if it is all stock and been taken care of and not hot-rodded it may be good. I would not pay $350 to have it checked out. that's just my opinion. main thing is just check the fluids, make sure no trace of oil in the coolant, and no coolant in the oil. and no condensation on the dipstick which is first sign of problems.