BoneDoc007

Hello everyone, came across a good deal on a 2001 XLT with the 4.6. I currently have a 2005 XLT with 5.4 and don't know a lot about this 97-03 generation of F150s. Going today to look at it. Anything that I should be looking for that may be different with this generation? Any tips would be appreciated!

BoneDoc007

Sorry forgot to add that its 4wd and a supercrew!

BrittonN

If it's a 4x4, make sure you hear a "Click" or two from what sounds like a solenoid when switching into 4hi to ensure the 4x4 works. Watch the Odometer reading see if it flickers or goes out. Its common for the solder to wear and break on the connections behind the gauges for this. Easy fix but something to look for.

One thing I did not check before buying my 01 4.6l xlt was if the horn and cruise control worked. Turns out my clockspring is hooped. Replacing that today! Its about $120 part.

If it has power locks check to make sure all the doors lock and unlock when prompted. It's common for the lock actuators to wear out over time. Each actuator is $30 from ebay. If you can, bring a super chip for an f150 or a OBD2 scan tool to look at any powertrain codes. Look on the headliner near the rear window for any water marks or stains. Its common for the rear window to leak.

That's all I can really think of. The 4.6l is pretty reliable and bullet proof, unless someone really effed up on something in the engine you should be good to go!

PS. If the steering feels sloppy take a look at the tie rod idler. Mine was worn out and had some play in it. A new Heavy Duty idler from Napa smartened that up. About $250.

BoneDoc007

Thanks, those are good things I wouldn't have thought of. He is second owner and bought it from a ford dealer. Says truck is in great condition! He just bought a new one and is trying to sell this one. For price I am hoping so. Good be a good deal!!

ol_red_2

look for rust on the rocker panels under the doors. I didn't and both rockers are rusted out on mine, but that the only rust

BrittonN

Thats a good tip^

With the super crews you don't need to worry about box rust because the box is fiberglass, if you didn't already know. These trucks are awesome! Very pleased with mine.

BoneDoc007

Did not know there are fiberglassed! interesting.

jollyroger331

Yep, screw beds are glass and if you don't see rust on the rockers it doesn't mean it's not there, they rust from the inside out. All in all great trucks though.

4x4dave

Ask him if the sparkplugs have been changed recently. and just ramble on about how much of a pain in the *** it will be to do. Being a supercrew it will most likely be 3.55's. Tell him you were looking for 3.73 gears or better and drop the price more. Definitely knock him on the rear window which is probably a bit leaky and look for bad door switches. Tell him it's slower than a 1 legged dog on tranquilizers since it's a 4.6.

Just kidding. The modular motors of these years are farily bulletproof. But feel free to use my buying tactics

ibd2328

iTrader: (2)

Love the tactics Might also add that the 4.6 is a mustang engine and rant about how it has no power down low for the given gear ratio. Tell him about the factory cast crankshaft, non-pi heads, bad composite intake design and will need to be replaced, faulty cruise control recall.... hmm I will add more later.