caderoderick13

okay guys new to this forum, but have been on other forums and kinda know how this one works. im looking into buying an f150, was my first truck and have wanted another. i have two in mind.

both are fairly high mileage but with the small amount of funds i have i cant get anything with low miles.

the first is a 1997 ext cab stepside. a few extra add ons (wheels, leveled few minor others) but the big question mark is the fact that it has 220,000 miles, what would your opinions be on that??

the second is a 1998 ext cab short bed, all stock, and it has 180,000 miles. both are listed same price but the 97 said theres a little negotiation room there.

just looking for opinions on what decision you all would make here. i like the 97 better but the miles on the 98 are better

jstockert

What engine is in these trucks?

caderoderick13

am unsure of the motor on both of them, should be finding out after work today. is there pros and cons of 4.6's and 5.4's?

Thanks in advance

jstockert

Stay away from the v6. The 5.4 is desired over the 4.6 just because the increased cubic inch. I have a 97 4.6 I just replaced with 208000 miles. Not really giving problems just smoked so I bought a reman. 4.6 because I tow and use my truck in my business and do not need major problems.
Which ever you pick I would either take to a mechanic or do yourself if mechanically inclined. Pull all the spark plugs and inspect the threads and replace with new plugs if you buy.

caderoderick13

thanks for the info, i had just redone the plugs on my dodge before i sold it so shouldnt have too much of a problem with this. but as far as the 40,000 mile difference, just check to see if theres any obvious problems and either one i decide on should do a tune up?

03f15012

Yeah, the early v6's (97-98) had real bad head gasket problems. 2003's were a lot better, and it's what in my 2003.

Jbrew

Need more info, -don't worry about the add on's or extra's, just post info about the trucks your looking at. At least the basic.

If you want good advise, tell us what your looking at.

4x4, engine, rust, model.... what? Unless you really don't care about that stuff lol.

1968dave

I would go for the one with 180,000 b/c 220,000 is just too many miles.

caderoderick13

thanks for all the advice guys

1968dave

Let us know which one you get and post some pics.