My husband has a 97 F250 4x4 7.3L diesel crew cab with 150K on it. I would like to pry him out of it and get him a new 05 or 06. Any advice would be welcomed about the new 6.0 diesel and should we get an 05 or 06? Any must have options I need to get on a new one? Stick or auto? He tows his tractor on a 27' flatbed gooseneck and he tows a 20' gooseneck stock trailer once in awhile.

Thanks in advance for the input.

 

With A 6.0 diesel I would definately get the automatic tranmission. This is because this engine has to rev a bit to make its power and the automatic lets it do this because of the torque convertor. The 7.3 diesel had lots of grunt right off idle so a stick is fine with it. I would go with an 06 personally because you can order it exactly like you want, whereas with an 05 yoiu would have to pick from whats on the lot. As far as options, I would make sure you got the integrated trailer brake controller and the upfitter switches. I would also get the dealer to wire in #4 switch to idle up the engine, especially if you have winter where you live. Other options to consider are keyless entry, dual alternators, and trailer tow package. Since you are a King Ranch Lady I'll be guessing you would be happier with the King Ranch package also.
Good luck

 

taterthedog,
Thanks for the info! I wish we could get a F250 King Ranch, but they are a bit expensive new. I bought mine used a couple of months ago and really love it. Besides, if the husband had a King Ranch, I know who would be stuck conditioning the leather!

 

i'd go with the '06. they should have any issues they had on the '05's fixed by then. PS, your husband is a lucky man , wish my wife would tell me to upgrade, i usually have to start convincing her a year ahead of time to get her ready.

 

Go with 05. Issues have been fixed and incentives can't be beat.

 

Whats a matta with the 97? Only 150K, heck it's startin to get broken in. Are you going to keep it? Trade it? Put it up for sale? Is it a stick?

If you can, drive a 6.0L with a stick before buying. It isn't like a 7.3L at all when it comes to off the line grunt and just dumping the clutch with low revs. More like drivin a gasser when startin out. I still would take it over that slushbox however.

Adrianspeeder

 

When do you think the 06 250's will be available?

 

We've got an 06 F350 on our lot now at work.

 

My husband has people stopping by at work all the time asking him if he wants to sell it. It is in great shape with auto transmission. BUT.....he refuses to let go of it. You all know how men are with their trucks.

Thanks for the opinions. I will keep them in mind IF the husband ever decides to trade.