engine swap opinions

[ahmincha]

Hi everyone need some honest opinions. I have a 1989 f450 superduty with a blown 460 in it. Im trying to decide if i should go 7.3 idi or just replace the 460.
I can get a complete 91 f350 with the 7.3 in it complete and running so from a cost stand piont it will probably be a wash between gas and diesel. basicly my ? is will i be better off with the 460 or the 7.3 mpgs power towing and so on. The truck is a dump truck and we somtimes tow a skid steer thanks for your opinions

 

[gonecrazyi]

The 7.3 will get way better mpg figures while towing, but without a turbo it will be a little slower getting up to speed.
With another truck that has crossmember plates for the 7.3 engine mounts, the swap will be really straightforword.

Go with the 7.3 if you know it has a good history,

 

[Dsl_Dog_Treat]

I've dumped the 460 for a 6.9 and haven't regretted doing so.

Sounds like you'll have everything to make the swap happen.

460= 8mpg loaded or empty.
6.9 or 7.3= 15-18mpg.

 

[timothyr1014]

the other thing is in as much as the 460 is a solid motor, the lifespan of the idi will probably be longer in your conditions

 

[ahmincha]

So far looks unanimous diesel all the way any issues i should look out for during the swap. I believe it should be fairly easy im change the cab also so ill have plenty of room thanks for the replies

 

[gandalf]

Keep in mind that you'll have to change out the transmission too. From all I've heard the gasser xmission is not compatible with the diesel. I think its the bolt pattern. If you have a doner vehicle with both a good 7.3 and a good xmission, you're all set.