this would be my first diesel vehicle ever, can i get some advice to help me make a good decision? seller says the truck's got 158xxx miles and a 4 speed manual

thanks in advance.

 

Do it.

-Matt

 

yeah, i probably will, but what i need (and i apologize i didn't make that clearer in my original post) is to know what to look for to be able to make an educated offer for the truck.

 

Look at the interior, pedals, how much wear is actually on things to try and determine if it really only has 158,000. A truck like that in nice shape is easily worth $4000 or maybe high 3g's around here.

I'd say hell yeah do it. 6.9/T19/d60f/10.25 pretty much translates to bulletproof.

 

bullet proof is what we need.

 

you might be wise to check the axle ratios. 4.10s have it screaming at 55MPH, whereas 3.55s have no trouble reaching 75MPH. but of course the 4.10s are better for a low-speed workhorse.

 

If it's got 4.10's, level it and throw some 35's or so on er. Problem solved.

 

It doesnt scream at 55...i had my 84 with 4.10s and T-19, she would do 65!!

 

Aune, everyone i've talked to with 4.10s and a c6 says it screams at 55. i'm lucky enough to have 3.55s and don't have to worry as much - i've seen as high as 82 MPH so far without running into trouble, and just took other people's word for how things go with 4.10s

 

Check the oil for "water" intrusion. You'll see "white lines" mixed in.
Check front end, for possible u-joint's that are bad.
Check for leaks while the engine is running and make sure the 4x4 works.
Is there a price he has in mind?

 

sounds just like my truck[86 xlt f350 dually] and I hate that about it, is there anyway to switch just the final gear or is it all or nothing?

 

Im giong to assume your dually is 2wd? If so, all you have to do is replace the ring and pinion with the gear ratio of your choice. Or you can just swap the whole rear.

4x4 is the same deal, you just have to do the front too.

OP: What are they wantin for the truck? Pics would be awesome.

 

as hairy said, swapping gears back there would do it for you, but its a trade off. 3.55s are great for the highway, but won't be quite as quick getting around town. they'll save you fuel on the highway, but cost you a little if you do a lot of low-speed driving

if you want the best of both worlds and have money to spend, consider getting an overdrive. are you a manual or auto?

 

Oh boy. That baby is long gone. I think it sold within the hour that it was posted.

I ended up getting the one in my signature line. It's a beast.