Need more info on 86 F350 or F450 with diesel

Milwaukee1979F150 · #1 (**permalink**) 03-10-2010, 11:05 PM

Well found one for cheap but it been sit 5-10 years.

I have lot questions.

Info 86 F350 but I don't think it could be F450 because bed look to be long than long bed. It Flatbed with ladder rack.

It have 6.9L with 4 speed. NO AC. It been sit for 5 years or longer.

Ok here question

Did they paint frame grey? When I inspect it look factory paint on frame no overspray or paint on parts. It just frame that it.

Could I cut frame to make short like regular size? Will cut back end maybe 1-2 feet off. It ok to do that? I am sure mpg would improve little and make easy for drive.

Is 5 years or longer are bad for 6.9L diesel? I believe it 28K miles but I guess it could be 128K miles. Would it able start easy after sit for long time?

Does Ford made F450 in that year? I hope not because it would cost more for register license plate.

What weight limit on this truck? I believe it have helper leaf spring. It worn out from hold about 3K pounds of bricks on it.

Milwaukee1979F150 · #2 (**permalink**) 03-11-2010, 12:13 PM

bump

would like know answer about gvwr on this truck? Does it came with swiss frame?

Rogue_Wulff · #3 (**permalink**) 03-11-2010, 01:03 PM

The swiss cheese frame was 80 to mid-81, but I don't know if it included the F350.
As far as I'm aware, there wasn't a F450 in 86.
The frame could be factory painted, but I thought they used a black paint on the frame. Perhaps it's just faded.
5 years is a long time for any engine to sit. I'd replace all the rubber hoses for both fuel and coolant before driving, but they may suffice for getting it started. Just watch for leaks.
Cutting the frame can be done. I'm not a huge fan of cutting/welding frames, but it's done by many.
As for the GVW rating, the only way to know would be check the decal in the driver door opening. Ratings varied depending on exact options installed.

Milwaukee1979F150 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-11-2010, 03:06 PM

Whew I hope it not swiss frame because once you put on road in winter then it end in junkyard due frame gotten weak faster in salt environment.

I am not fan of cut frame but after look it definably too long bed not 8' I would say more like 10-12' feet long.

When I inspect frame it amazing it not rusty but it gray which cause me wonder if Ford did paint grey instead black.

Ok my plan is replace brakes too and hoses for safety. Don't want strand in 250 miles trip with old parts.