punkmechanic
diesel tech
the 97 sounds like a decent truck. The "coffee cup" of red fluid is disconcerting though. The coolant in 97 should be green with dca additive (the additive is blue but the coolant should be green in color). I know that all manor of companies make all kinds of coolant in a rainbow of colors, If a test strip in the coolant doesnt come back with the right results then walk away. The 7.3 strokes arent known for coolant leaks. The 94-97 have fuel filter housing issues, and the fuel pump in the value can leak neither are major and its just basic maintenance. the 7.3 strokes after 150k to 200k need injectors and the injector cups should be done to prevent the coolant and fuel from mixing. Other than that they are solid and dependable. Make sure the cruise control recall and cam position sensor recall are done and your good to go.
The idi is a great truck and dead nuts dependable. the stroke has more power and almost as much dependablility. Both will go for 300-500k with basic maintenance. The stroke is more expensive to purchase and maintain but thats the trade off for 450-500 lb/ft of torque.
Its a hard decision to make but hopefully this info will help. I would let them total your truck, buy it back and then use the "fix it" pay out as a down payment on the stroke. two for one.
punk
The idi is a great truck and dead nuts dependable. the stroke has more power and almost as much dependablility. Both will go for 300-500k with basic maintenance. The stroke is more expensive to purchase and maintain but thats the trade off for 450-500 lb/ft of torque.
Its a hard decision to make but hopefully this info will help. I would let them total your truck, buy it back and then use the "fix it" pay out as a down payment on the stroke. two for one.
punk