deisel pick up, powerstroke or turbo?

The Cummins has a couple of flaws depending on model year. From 1999 to 2002 some of the 24 valve blocks will crack and allow coolant to leak. Look for the number 53 cast into the block. It's located on the drivers side all the way forward just above the oil pan. The earlier 12 valves with the 53 didn't crack as often. This problem usually doesn't show up early in the engine's life. Any 24 valve you find with a 53 casting number should be avoided.

The other issue which can be solved is called the killer dowel pin. The pin locates the front timing gearcase. If it falls out, three scenarios are possible. 1. It falls into the oil pan. You lucked out. 2. The most common ocurrance. It will shoot out the side of the timing case and leave a hole leaking generous amounts of oil. 3. Rare, but has happened. It jams between the timing gear case, breaks the cam and causes the valves to massage the pistons. Not good.

There's a simple fix for the killer dowel pin.You'll have to pull the timing gearcase on any 1988 to 1998 Cummins to check for a retainer. If it's not there, add one.

I've used the 6.8L Ford V-10 in a 2003 F-250 quad cab short bed 4X4, and I loved it (the engine that is). I pulled about 9000lbs out of PA back home to WV and for the most part I could hardly tell the weight was there. I don't remember what the MPGs were, but it was better then my old F-350 with the 460 in it. The one I used had the 3.73 LS rear in it. While it did fine, I would suggest getting one with the 4.10 if you plan on any long drives or major hills to climb. The taller gears help keep it in the power band better.

From talking to other people, the only gas engine that seems to be really good in the Super Duty is the V-10. I've had too many people tell me the 5.4L V-8 is underpowered.

I know it is out of the years you listed, but IIRC the 6.8 V-10 came out in 1999 in the Super Duty F series trucks.

As to the older trucks, the 351 and 460 are both good engines, but neither is easy on gas. The 302 is worthless in a truck. The 300 inline 6 is a good engine, it will run forever, just not enough power for my taste.

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America - made in China

Have you used Auto Trader? I always start there when I'm looking for a "new" vehicle. You can search close to home or up to nation wide if you want.

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America - made in China