Advise needed for next vehicle

[Mr. Fixit]

Gentlemen, perhaps you can give me some advice? I'm looking for a replacement for our '76 F250 with the 460 (2wd). It is becoming difficult to keep it running since it sits for 10 months and then is expected to run well on an isolated, wet island on the coast. Which years, engines, models do you recommend for the most reliable but easy to service Ford pickup. I don't need the 460 but must admit it runs well once you get it started. Would like a 4wd. Should I stay away from FI? Thanks!

[kenjh]

Hi ..why is it hard to get running ?? sitting for months could be just the crap we have for gas now ,,,myself I lean to diesel ...or propane ..my 79 Bronco sits for months ,,with a battery tender and fires up with trouble ..my diesels all have 300.000 plus on them and keep going ,,,vancouver has that "air care" crap doesn't it ??or is that not a problem for you ?? my gas pot is a 54 Ford rescued from a garden ...what have you rescued lately ??

[Mr. Fixit]

I don't know why it's hard to start, but it could be the crab needs a rebuild. When first cranked after months, it will cough and do a kind of backfire that spews out steam that could be condensation. A few shots of ether and I can usually bring it to life. I use "Stabil" to hopefully stop the gas from getting too bad over the winter.

Yes we have Aircare (which I really like) but the vehicle doesn't have to go through.

I've saved a few older vehicles including an old Willys.

I'd like to find a 300 six in a 4wd - no luck so far. There is a "free" 80s F150 with 302 right across the back alley from me but no one can get it to run... so "free" might be too expensive.

[Zip]

How much are you looking to spend? I know where exactly what you describe is.