New user, counting the months

[CatherineB]

Hi All, 
I'll purchase a former ambulance to convert to an RV at the end of 2019 and so I've begun doing the research. I know most folks are looking at the 2003 and prior because of the powerful diesel engine that was standard at the time. Not having owned a diesel in the past, nor do I have a tremendous amount of mechanical savvy (tho I'm a quick learner), I'm unsure whether I should be looking at something newer, say 2010s. I'm grateful to have found this forum to help clarify my thoughts and make informed decisions re this upcoming adventure!

 

[highdesertranger]

Welcome Catherine to the CRVL forums! To help you learn the ins and outs of these forums, this "Tips, Tricks and Rules" post lists some helpful information to get you started. We look forward to hearing more from you. I myself would stay away from the newer diesels. especially the Fords after 2003. highdesertranger

 

[CatherineB]

Thanks, highdesertstranger! Happy to be here! So many questions, but I think I have the time I need to plan as well as possible. I may test drive a 1988 Ford 350 this weekend if it's still available.  I did hear that Ford had a few bad years after 2003 with the new diesels, but then got the hang of it by 2007 or 8. Nonetheless, you have reinforced what I've heard/read most frequently about the post '03 Fords....

 

[highdesertranger]

as far as I am concerned Ford has not built a good diesel since the 7.3 and the last year for that engine was 2003. highdesertranger