Hey guys, just purchased my fist home and noticed how bad I need a truck. I don't know whether to get an older truck (which I'm leaning towards) or a newer one. Problem with getting a newer one is that money is very tight already and don't know if I could afford one. I've been checking craigslist and really like the body style of the 87-96 f150s. Can you guys give me some opinions on this one: http://miami.craigslist.org/mdc/cto/4736458399.html I do want 4x4 as my son would love to go wheeling. Let me know what you think and any suggestions.

 

Says engine is new, looks like someone re-carpeted the cab, throws up red flags for me. Sounds like it could be a flood truck, or someone could have just sunk a lot of money into it.

What to look for when buying a 87-96 F-150

I would recommend really checking it over, if it is in good shape, all of the tests show no issues and no codes after test drive I'd jump on it. Like I said though really look it over, sounds like a great price for that clean of a body, but the carpet does look off to me and coupled with "new" engine sounds like something happened. Also don't know if truck is running or not but the CEL is clearly on in the last picture.

My 94 5.8 has 300k miles and still original engine and trans with no rebuild.

 

Thanks for the reply. I'm going to go take a look at it tomorrow. I just went through that thread a few minutes ago. I don't have a vacuum gauge nor a fuel pressure tester. For the fuel pressure, would there be any other signs that I could tell that fuel pressure isn't right? I talked to a lady who answered the phone (speak barely any english, common here in Miami) and she said the motor is original. Not sure if there is a language barrier with her saying "new" motor. Also, the carpet was a good point. I will need to have a close eye on that as well. Another thing I will look for is any rust.

 

Try to find someone that has a vacuum gauge you can borrow, quick and easy way to diagnose any potential problems that can't be seen. As for the fuel pressure gauge go to orielly's or auto parts store and "borrow" one, they charge a credit card but give it all back when you return it. If neither one is possible your best bet is finding someone who currently or recently owned a 92-96 f150 (that's mechanically competent) and take them with you.

 

Okay, will do. Thanks for the tips. If anyone else has something to chime in feel free.

 

I love it personally, the whole setup is exactly what I would want in one of these trucks I hope it checks out man if it was closer we might be bidding for it lol

 

Also make sure those tie down bolts on the bed aren't the only thing holding that liner in, the clip's for those liners can be found at most junk yards but I wasn't able to buy any new ones online when I was looking for them.

 

Make sure you spend the bulk of your time underneath the truck when you look at it. New motor doesnt mean everything else is in good shape. Motor is important but so is the tranny, front end, and all that.

 

Think about this before buying any older or newer truck. Economically, an older truck is cheaper, if you know how to work on it or you are willing to learn on the spot. I haven't had to do much of anything to my 96 f150 with 181,000 miles, or my 98 dodge cummins with 287,000 miles, but I know I can take care of anything that may happen to them. Not to scare you, and I dodnt know how much you know about cars or how mechanically inclined you are, just wanted to bring that point up. But these old trucks are great trucks are very durable, and will serve you well.

 

I'm pretty mechanically inclined and do most repair work on my cars myself. The internet is such a great resource for information now a days and most of the time I could figure it out using Google. I just called the lady today to go take a look and she sold it! Total BS!!!