Just starting to look for a truck in this year range. Likely wont be a daily driver but will get regular use. Need 4x4...bed length doesn't matter (prefer short)...can do manual or auto (prefer auto). Cab size doesn't necessarily matter.

With all of that said.....what are the MUST KNOW details when evaluating these vehicles for sale?

 

Hey Geo ....

As I have a 94 XLT L/B 4x4 with 5.8 on jack stands at the moment my immediate thoughts are cosmetics are trivial and can be fixed most any time. So I'd look at :::

(caveat on cosmetics... cab corner rust and bed mount rust)
Manual /Auto Lock outs. (prefer manual)
front drive axles u-joints... . how worn are they .. and they will be worn
brake /cruise control switch on master cylinder --- look for brake fluid leakage.
climb under and check brake fluid leakage from rear wheel cylinders
emergency brake cables rusted up
Air bag control module failure
Speedo/odometer failure
Steering rag coupler worn (sloppy steering)
Tie rods/drag link - (sloppy steering)
Ball Joints ...

that's just an immediate must be fixed list that I can think of

I'm sure others will chime right in with their lists. Good hunting!

Chap

 

Brake lines. Leaf spring hangers. Rear main seal. Oil pan gasket. Working gas tanks and fuel gauges. Transmission cooler lines. Front spring hangers. Rusty rims. Ask me how I know 😏

 

Check out fseriesontario.com for a writeup on that exact subject.