Hi all,

My kid (high school aged) is looking at a possible trade. He has a 96 dodge ram 4x4 SLT 5.2liter 190,000 miles. Truck runs ok, looks ok-The truck has its issues and is not perfect but has been a decent truck that last year or so that he has owned it. He is looking to get out of the Dodge and into a Ford

He has a guy that wants to trade a 97 F150 4x4 150,000 miles. body fair, guy says runs great, 4x4 works, only thing that doesnt work is A/C.
The truck has rust issues (as does the Dodge) however I have not seen it in person yet.

Is there any things to be on the look out for or beware of? My kid wants in a Ford and I too would like to see him in one as that is what I prefer. But I dont want to steer him wrong with this deal.

Any ideas on what to look out for on 97 trucks with the 5.4 with 150,000 plus miles and the trade as above?
I KBB both trucks and the Ford books higher not that value at this stage is a major factor.
How long with the 5.4 last? 97 F150's have mechanical/electrical issues? 4x4 issues?

I have some mechanical sense and will inspect the truck before any deals are talked about. I intend on looking at the fluids and will be looking for bubba'd wiring, engine components missing or bubba'd, Frame rust and the like, anything else? Is there any reason to shy away from a 97 F150 4x4 with a 5.4?


Any help would be appreciated.
Robb