7.3 repair bill ouch
had my 7.3 to the dealer for Waste Gate actuator and heater fan stuck on defrost,,, $963.00 later runs like a champ. still cheaper than a new truck payment ok rant over!!
Forum Discussion
DiskDoctr wrote:I've read a lot of forums, and I do almost all of my own wrench turning. The problem I have is MONEY. All of these parts cost, and I'm not in a position to buy them.Stefonius wrote:It's not that hard to do and you get the updated headlamp design ;)
I would LOVE to change over to a 2005 front end, but I think DW won't let me spend quite that much money right now. 6.0 trans cooler is a good idea, though. Also, I'm not sure what shape my exhaust manifolds are in. Now you've got me thinking...
If you haven't checked out this site: FTE- 7.3L Diesels , you really should take some time to see the specialized info available for your truck.
The 6.0 trans cooler is DEFINITELY a good move if you are going to be towing. They can often be had in the $100 range for used ones- just be sure it is flushed and don't use one from a truck with a failed transmission. Stuff gets in there that you can't get out...until it's hooked to YOUR transmission :E
The 7.3L is a great platform and really easy to work on. There are a handful of things they need to keep them starting and running smoothly. My 7.3L Excursion starts in the coldest weather. No plugging in, no coaxing, no slow starting, etc. It wasn't like that when I bought her, but injector o-rings, glowplugs, UVCH, 5w-140w synthetic oil (T6), and a good fuel additive (PS white bottle).
I also replaced the starter, alternator (upgraded to 140amp), and batteries. These are typical age related items.
We gave her an upgraded turbo wheel, AIS intake, MBRP turbo back exhaust, Hydra with GearHead tunes, John Woods valve body in the transmission, and various updates and upgrades.
Starts and runs like a new truck. If you are handy, all this is "Level 2 DIY" stuff and that site I linked has writeups, people who answer questions, and even get together to help each other at times.
Check it out and introduce yourself. You and your truck will be glad you did ;)
So far, I've done a fuel rail crossover (FRX), High-Pressure Oil Crossover (HPX), Ford AIS intake, new (dark blue) CPS, "50 cent" mod to the UVCH, rebuilt the fuel bowl, replaced the turbo pedestal gaskets, rebuilt the wastegate actuator, added intake plenum inserts and new boots and clamps, replaced three alternators, four starters, added air conditioning, added cruise control, replaced ICP and IPR. I want to add a gauge package before I do anything else, and those parts will cost about $1,000 that I don't have.
What part of PA are you in, DiskDoctr?
