In my former life, I spent time hauling cars between Arizona and California. Through that journey I tested the towing capabilities of a variety of different diesel-powered trucks, though our Pick of the Day is one I never was fortunate to sample. This 2002 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab 4×4 is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealer in Sherman, Texas.
In the mid-1990s, the heavy-duty pickup market was dominated by the 5.9-liter Cummins diesel engine found in Dodge Rams. Needing an answer, Ford introduced the 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel V-8 in 1994. It included HUEI fuel injectors, an air-to-air intercooler, and a waste-gated turbocharger. This engine is regarded by diesel experts as one of the best ever assembled.
When Ford introduced its F-Series redesign for 1997, it was not well received, but the Power Stroke ended up being its saving grace. The F-150 was designed by Andrew Jacobsen to look more “car-like” for improved aerodynamics, but that turned off many buyers who wanted their trucks to look like trucks instead of commuter cars.
Luckily for those consumers, Ford introduced an all-new Super Duty for the 1999 model year that exploited the aerodynamics while still looking like a beefy truck. Most importantly, it still had that much beloved turbo-diesel engine. The design carried on until the 2007 model year.
Painted Oxford White and Arizona Beige two-tone, this 2002 Ford F-250 Lariat Crew Cab 4×4 features a sliding glass rear window, telescopic side mirrors, bedliner, and running boards for easy access. After you open the door to admire the Medium Parchment Leather interior and warm faux-woodgrain trim, you might notice the word “Lariat” on the seats. First introduced for the 1978 model year, the Lariat package was billed as having luxurious comfort, handy storage, added carpeting, extra insulation, and map pockets. Other features include cruise control, adjustable pedals, tilt steering column, and air conditioning. Power options include steering, windows, and four-wheel disc brakes. A previous owner installed aftermarket gauges in the A-pillar that show readings for water temperature, oil pressure, EGT, boost pressure, differential pressure, and transmission temperature.
Of course, the star of this Super Duty is the 7.3-liter Power Stroke turbo-diesel V-8 that’s mated to a four-speed 4R100 automatic transmission (upgraded with an aluminum pan) and dual-range transfer case. Factory-rated at 250 horsepower and 505 lb-ft of torque, this capable diesel is barely broken in at 78,964 actual miles. For those with towing needs, a BD Diesel Exhaust Brake and US Gear Cyclone Power Fan help improve towing safety, temperature control, and braking performance. These aftermarket upgrades pair nicely with a 46-gallon fuel tank, and aftermarket rear differential cover and straight-piped (no catalytic converter) four-inch exhaust system with a muffler.
This sounds like the perfect rig to haul a classic car — one you can buy on ClassicCars.com, no less! For $42,950, buy it now and then wait for car show season to return when diesel prices will be at more acceptable levels.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
