Hey, new to the forums. Names Jen. Haven't spent too much time under a hood, or driving old cars - but excited to start. However, I don't know if I'm getting in over my head.

I impulsively decided to buy a automatic 1977 F100 with 302 motor. 66000 miles, 98% rust free according to the guy selling it, new tires wheels brakes. He mentioned the carb might need adjusted, that it is hard to start when cold out. Brakes seem hard but I'm not used to non-powered brakes. Truck might pull to the right a little when fully pressed. Exhaust smells gassy but didnt appear smokey, maybe a little grey condensation from the cold? Carb related? Interior has this a weird newer cushy seat - definitely not what I remember from my grandpas old ford. Carpeted floors - thought it was odd, Idk though. Dash is impeccable. Am no Fm radio. Other than that, quiet engine seems to shift smoothly. Although, when I put it into gear it jolts forward/backward in one way or another. Don't know if this is normal, guy I'm buying from said it is and he would be worried if it didn't. Is this true?

3500 bucks.

Am I getting screwed or this a decent deal?

Also, how difficult would it be to put in a updated stereo and would this do anything to its value? Restoring the interior be a good idea? Taking out the carpet and finding a decent original seat? Is it impossible to work a 302 2x4 into a 4x4?

Obviously, I'm a complete and total newb. I have until 7 oclock to back out. Hes got a 100 deposit to hold until I pick up cash from my bank. Your wisdom is greatly appreciated!



AND A PICTURE

 

It looks like a pretty decent truck that just needs some minor mechanical work, but $3,500 seems a tad bit steep for a 2wd, particularly since you mentioned converting it to a 4x4.

If a 4x4 is what you really want $3,500 can buy a lot of truck if you're patient and take your time to shop around, with the economy in the dumps and $4 gas it's a buyers market for these old rigs.

 

This is not normal and it is odd to me that someone would say they would be "worried" if a truck does something that is NOT normal. This would make me question everything this person tells you. There could be a number of reasons behind this, high idle being one of them.

I would say somewhere in between. It looks and sounds like a great truck, but I think $3500 is too steep, especially for a 302 (which is not the best motor for a truck). That truck would go for $2500 in my area, which typically runs high.

It is not incredibly difficult, but not as easy as getting a kit from Best Buy. You must cut an opening yourself, fabricate a bracket, and do the wiring yourself. I have pictures of this in my gallery. It does not change the value; in fact it can do the opposite as some don't like to see a truck's dash cut up. However, you only have to cut pieces that are easily replaced, so it's not really a big deal.

It depends what you consider a "good idea." Will it make the truck look better? Of course. Will it cost money? Of course. At any rate, most interior pieces for these trucks are readily available.

See above comment.

It is not impossible, but very labor intensive. If this is your end goal, you're much better off spending that money on a 4x4.

You mentioned that you impulsively put down a deposit, and now you're under pressure to decide if you really want to do it or not by a deadline. You sound really nervous about this deal. I don't think you should buy a truck until you absolutely have to have it and there is no doubt in your mind that you want it. There is no need to put pressure on yourself when it comes to a recreational activity like this. Take your time and the right one will come along.

 

I agree. Take your time and find the one you really want.

 

truck looks pretty nice, sounds like it has a few issues, $3500 will get a 302 2wd thats fully sorted and looks pretty nice around here, I'd keep shopping personally... if I was dropping $3500 on one I'd want one that ran and drove great.
If you want a 4wd, I really wouldn't bother with a 2wd, so many 4wd's available and for $3500 you'll have your pick of the lot.

 

For reference on your price point...

In my area, I picked up my highboy for around what you are looking to spend. I am not sure if it was the best deal I could have got if I remained patient, but there were a lot worse I looked at in the two months I was searching and for way more money.

Speaking from experience, If you truly want a 4x4 then be patient and don't settle on the first truck that comes up even if the money is burning a hole in your pocket. I wanted an F250 4x4, but went and looked at some F100 and F150 trucks. I almost bought a couple I looked at but I was wishy-washy and the final price was never to my liking so I ended up not settling because it never felt right. Through my forced patience I ended up coming across a truck that was what I wanted for a price I was comfortable with, i.e. brush guard, 35 inch tires, one color not a collection of different parts, etc. and it was a smooth and easy deal. Basically it was the right truck at the right time and everything fell into place nicely and I am much happier than I would have been buying one of the other trucks I was looking at.

 

Welcome to FTE Jen, and so far I would agree on all the input and advice you have gotten. Some things that will help... where are you located, that does dictate the price some, are you really wanting a 4x4, if so, as stated above, wait and find one, they are out there, and patience IS a virtue. You came to the right place, and IMHO I would pass and let it right a night and do some thinking.

Joe

 

might help to post your location, people could give you a better idea of what to expect in your area.

 

that truck has been for sale for awhile. i dont think its worth what they want but thats just me.

 

Ya cause theres no trucks down this way for that cheap!

I dont know where your all posting from but that "Looks" like a good price.

 

Thanks for all of your responses!! I ended up putting a kabosh on the deal. He, however, was insistent that the jerking was the sign of a strong transmission. After posting here I started calling mechanics around town laying down the "vulnerable girl who knows nothing about trucks" charm and nearly everyone of 'em told me it wasn't normal. So I guess I'm off to scour the net..

By the way, for those that asked I'm in Omaha NE.

I'm kinda wondering if perhaps 3500 is a going rate here. 1973-1979 is rarely posted up on craigslist or even seen. Including this one I've probably seen the total of 7 around here. Many more '60s f100s for sale.

 

there always a few on there between lincoln and omaha. when you go look at it take someone with you. a girlfriend, some sap or brother just someone. take a magnet with you. check around the wheels of the bed. if the magnet sticks then look under the truck. start at the front look for missing bolts or odd bolts. check the cab mounts, they will be under the front fenders. stick your head by the front tire and look at the cab. if theres any rust on them at all knock at least $250 a side off. check and make sure everything works in the cab. most likely the ac wont work but heat is a must. dont let them start it. pull the dipstick look for chocolate milk color on it. also take the radiator cap off. is the coolant green or brown. trucks not to far away from me if you buy supper i would come help ya. ask lots of questions. who did the body work? any pictures of the progress? what kinda parts where used? little things can add up if you dont or wont do them. do you need it for a daily driver? if not that would be a good truck to learn how to fix things on. lots of knowledge here and people who know. dont be scared to ask.

 

keep searching craigslist and local trader journals, thats where the deal are around here.
be willing to travel and have someone who will bring a truck and trailer and you can snag a good deal. Hey these are rough but this is just an idea of whats around here, these I'd say are in the lower middle to lower end of the market: old ford trucks

 

1978 F-100 Ranger XLT

Saw this ad yesterday,

 

I would add this: the '73 I owned with an auto trans and several others I've driven with autos would all "clunk" when you put them in reverse. The sound comes from the 9'' rear end, dont let that worry you if you hear that while you are shopping. As a matter of fact my truck does it now but its a manual so it much less of a harsh clunk, more like a "tink" as I ease off the clutch, if that makes sense.