Considering a 2006 E350 w/ 6.0 TD - Need Advice

[LocalmotionSC]

I'm looking for a base vehicle to use as a camper for an around the country trip (15-18k) I will be taking next year. I want something that will be (reasonably) reliable. However this is not a vehicle I will be investing more than a couple thousand into or planning to keep forever. My budget for the vehicle is 3-6k including a high top conversion if it doesn't have one already. Fuel efficiency, maneuverability, reliability, living space, and light off-road capability (mostly forest/fire roads) are all considerations. With these considerations in mind, what do you think about this high top Ford E350 from Craigslist?



$5800

2006 Ford E350
Extended Body
High Top
6.0 Turbo Diesel engine
300,xxx miles
supposedly running good and in great condition
looks to have Adrian Steel bulkhead/cab partition and interior kit as well as a floor mat

 

[bknudtsen]

I would think twice about a 6.0 with that mileage.

 

[LocalmotionSC]

Thanks,
I don't know much about the 6.0, does it have a reputation for failure or requiring lots of maintenance?

 

[bknudtsen]

Yes, the 6.0 relies on good preventative maintenance. It has numerous potential issues, that if not corrected, can lead to a systemic engine failure. Go to www.powerstrokehelp.com and there are some great videos about the Ford Diesel.

 

[spearwarrior]

I paid $500 to have my van inspected by professional mechanic. Money well spent imo

 

[rebar]

I just passed up a 07 quigley e350 6.0 because the dealer wouldn't let my mechanic inspect it. They said they lost the service records..

Iv been told it takes 5 to $7k to bullet proof a 6.0

 

[bknudtsen]

Maybe if you have to pull the heads and/or replace injectors. If you get a good running, lower mileage 6.0 and delete the egr cooler, replace the oil cooler, add a modest tune and maybe upgrade the hpop spring and seals, you will have a very reliable engine for $1000 or so. Of course if you are paying someone else to do the work, then add some more $$$.

BUT, don't be greedy with the horsepower mods. That's where head gaskets start to pop. Head studs won't necessarily guarantee a bulletproof engine either. The key here is good routine maintenance and tackling the known culprits.

I agree though, if a dealer is being sketchy, they are hiding something.

 

[rebar]

I agree though, if a dealer is being sketchy, they are hiding something.

Or there's another buyer beaten the door down.. Which was the case.

 

[LocalmotionSC]

hmmm,
sounds like a 6.0 with 300k might come with a considerable amount of uncertainty with it unless i'm willing to shell out the $$ for a thorough inspection and the required preventative mod's. Sounds to me like it might not be worth the effort as their is nothing particularly special about the rig apart from the high top roof. I'll probably see if I can find a 7.3 high top or ambulance. Keep an eye out for me. Thanks for the feedback, additional opinions are always welcome!

 

[steelheadbum]

What will you be doing with it ?Do you need a diesel?I only ask because if you don't plan to make it 4wd and will not need the extra towing ability why buy a diesel? Seems to me that a 5.4 would do you just fine and would be much more dependable than that 6.0 not to mention fuel economy will be about the same.

 

[LocalmotionSC]

Fuel economy and engine life are the main reasons I am considering a diesel. But if the 5.4 gets comparable mpg I would consider gas as well. Will the 5.4 get similar mpg even loaded with 10-15 gallons of water and full of gear?