Think it would be a decent choice for a first diesel, kinda like a starter truck.
Welcome to OB
the greatest place on the planet for the 6.9/7.3 IDI in Fords and IH trucks BARE NONE!
Yes this would be an ideal starter truck cause u can get parts fairly simple, as well as moderately inexpensive.
Also it's not a rocket scientist, nuclear physicist degree to fix em if there is a problem. That's what all the Mensa class IDI gods here are for, your electronic brain is here...in the computer and internet....not on the truck.
If you can have verifiable proof that it was a professionally rebuilt engine and has the correct SCA's it could be a ok deal at 5K
Turbo kit's come on the board frequently for sale/trade as well as Craiglist and Kijiji Ebay etc. There arealso some hi po parts her; Moose pump, Moose Misters (injectors), Russ, Type4 has a nice cam members get and say makes a nice addition. ARP has studs, so there is a bit of aftermarket for them
Ya you can build these for moderate power but very reliable and the brotherhood here, well it's second to none.
Take yer time, do not expect to see 400+ HP and 8 gazzilion lbs feet of Tq, these engines just where not designed for it. Don't get me wrong it can be done, but like the old saying....
HOW FAST DO YOU WANNA GO?....HOW MUCH ARE YOU WILLING TO SPEND
So stick around....hang out. Listen ask lots of questions and have a blast here....