New used truck , what do you think

[Qvan666]

I was down at the lot today and came across two trucks.

#1 is a 2000 F350 4x4 Standard shift, Crew cab, diesel that has 325K miles on it. Even to me that seems high. They want 7K for it. I believe it was used to pull a 5th wheel, at lease the plate is there.

#2 is a gently used 1997 F250 4x4, auto, extra cab, diesel with 130K miles for about 8K. It has a tow package, but doesn't have a 5th wheel plate. It does have mirrors that can be adjusted out so I would bet it was used to tow something.


So, as this is my first foray into the world of diesel, I am looking for suggestions, advice, opinions and things to look for on these trucks. The maintenance records are not available for either truck.

So, what says everyone?

bob

[Still Smoking]

I dont know a whole lot about diesels but if you got a few extra thousand you can get yourself a better 2000-2002. I seen a couple around me with 180000 go for 10000 and i even saw a 2004 I could have bought with 80000 miles I believe for 16000 I would have been all over that one it was light silver nice tires but I just bought a 04 F150 for the same price 2 weeks prior.

[Knotwild]

I really like the 97's. I have a client that has one with 370K on his, but mine only has 169K. They are noiser than the new body style, but you can actually go under the hood and work on it. The Ford dealer here lifts the body off the frame on the newer trucks if he has to do work on the heads.

[royzell]

I'd just add don't be in a hurry. It seems that with fuel prices where they are, used truck prices are dropping faster than a brick in a swimming pool. Deals turn up.

[Knotwild]

You are right about falling prices. I want to buy a second truck. Since the automakers are moving production to sardine can cars, and although people are dumping them now, I bet that we will see prices for diesel trucks skyrocket in the coming years, used or new.