I've spent quite a bit of time on this forum over the years in the F100, F150, and Expedition forums, but it's now time to step up to a bigger truck with a bigger engine. I usually provide somewhat-savvy advice and have never really asked such a general question, but after lurking the V10 forum for the past month or so, I trust your opinion.

I'm looking at purchasing a V10 Superduty as our third vehicle. It will be used to tow a utility trailer once in a while and haul rocks, etc. in the bed from time to time. It will also be used to drive the kids around in the winter when it snows. I dont want a diesel and I'm only looking at Supercabs.

I've narrowed my search down to two: a 2004 F-350 XLT w/69k miles for $16,000 (that's as low as they're going -- it's currently listed at $17,500). It doesn't appear that clean, even after detailing and the bed is a little beat up. The truck just feels sluggish in general and rides fairly stiff (has the snow plow package and was once used as a plow truck).

My other option is a 2008 F-250 XL w/115k miles for $12,000 (I haven't began negotiating yet, but do you think it's priced right?). This truck has the power package (power windows, locks, etc.) and looks very clean.

If the 2004 F-350 was one year newer with the Torqshift transmission, I would jump on it, but is the mileage on the 2008 a concern, or is it the better buy, considering the better transmission and 3V?

 

I'd get the '08 and have them replace the plugs if it hasn't already done. Test drive it first and get an Oasis report.

I don't recall if Ford had fixed the 2 pc plug design by '08.

 

Get the '08, more power and better transmission. At 115k miles, that's just getting broke in.

 

I vote for the 08 also. I'm one to get the latest model I can afford. A couple years can be a long time in the automotive industry. You'll like the V10 for your prescribed use. Mine had 64,000 miles in 2011 when I bought it. Vehicles handle miles way better than they used to provided they were cared for atleast decently.

 

I can't say that I am an expert, having just bought my 2008 about a month ago with 75k miles on her, but I can tell you that I LOVE THIS TRUCK! You will not regret going with the 2008, better trans, upgraded frame, and night and day interior refinement. You can tell if the engine is a one piece or two piece plug motor by looking at the spark plug "boots" if they are dark brown, then they are the one piece plugs, and that engine is still in production today in the chassis cab trucks and motor home chassis. If they are black then two piece plugs it is! Good luck!

 

I have a 3v and used to drive a 2v before every now and then. Power, ride, and transmission are well worth it to me. Get the 08. You'll enjoy it more! $12,000 is an excellent price! Thats what I paid for mine before trade in! And mine had 147k on the clock.

 

Another vote for the 08. Mine has 115k and still rolling along and drinking gas! Get the plugs, filters and fluids changed and you should be good!

 

I'd have to say the '08 is the better choice. To me personally, it would be a toss-up, but the "beat on" look of the '04 isn't a good thing either.

 

Thanks for all of the responses! I am waiting for the 2008 to be detailed and serviced, then I'll get to test drive it. I will update you when I make my purchase.

Anything to look for on the 2008 F250 V10?

 

Just look for the typical stuff as on any used vehicle. The test drive will tell you a lot, look for shakes in steering wheel and how it handles the road. Don't be afraid to beat it a little, after all it's a test drive. If you buy it, change the plugs right away.

 

Thanks for the head's up! I purchased another 100k mile Ford modular a couple years ago, and within 2k miles I started having misfires due to the sparkplugs. Changed them and all was good in the world.

By the way, the dealership doesn't have a picture of the actual truck on their site yet, but this is EXACTLY what the truck looks like:

 

That truck is begging for 35's

 

I'm sure this question has been asked a million times, but I like the look of the older 5 and 8-hole wheels -- can I use an older factory set on the XL? And will the 35's fit? I don't care for larger wheels, just bigger tires. Ideally, I'd like 16" wheels with 35" tires.

 

A 16" wheel won't fit over the calipers, you would need 17" minimum.

 

17" it is then. Thanks.