Possible First Time Owner...Need Advice
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Possible First Time Owner...Need Advice
Hey everyone,
Long story short I have had an 88 Crown Vic since I was 17 I am now 30.
It has been getting re-wired so I am going to have to get another car. I have always liked the 88-96 era trucks, (F-150). I am very familiar with the 302 but would like opinions from you guys on what too look for when browsing. Known problems and any things that should stick out as a potential headache. I will probably opt for an automatic transmission btw. Any help is appreciated, thanks!
Long story short I have had an 88 Crown Vic since I was 17 I am now 30.
It has been getting re-wired so I am going to have to get another car. I have always liked the 88-96 era trucks, (F-150). I am very familiar with the 302 but would like opinions from you guys on what too look for when browsing. Known problems and any things that should stick out as a potential headache. I will probably opt for an automatic transmission btw. Any help is appreciated, thanks!
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 1,834
Likes: 363
From: Candy Mountain
Condition is king, IMHO. These trucks are pretty tough and reliable if given ordinary maintenance, and problems are repaired quickly and not forced to limp along.
I wouldn't have a problem getting into something with a few known issues that need to be addressed, but I look for signs of prolonged neglect or significant modifications as red flags. For me typically, it isn't a matter of whether it can be fixed, but more a matter of how much of a PITA it will be to make right.
Unless you have a specific use or goal in mind like prolonged towing, I wouldn't get too caught up in specific powertrain combos and so forth as they are all solid when treated well. Go for what is in the best condition within your budget, and have cash on hand for repairs.
I wouldn't have a problem getting into something with a few known issues that need to be addressed, but I look for signs of prolonged neglect or significant modifications as red flags. For me typically, it isn't a matter of whether it can be fixed, but more a matter of how much of a PITA it will be to make right.
Unless you have a specific use or goal in mind like prolonged towing, I wouldn't get too caught up in specific powertrain combos and so forth as they are all solid when treated well. Go for what is in the best condition within your budget, and have cash on hand for repairs.
Senior User
Joined: Aug 2011
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If anything has "death wobble" my experience has been axle pivot bushings. If a front end is wobbled out a bit its not exactly terribly expensive to rebuild. In front ends best thing to look for damage wise is the radius arm brackets. They can wobble all the way out. Only about 50$ each and bushings for both run about 25. Whole front end csn be rebuilt for under 300.
Posting Guru
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,208
Likes: 2
From: North Reading Mass
I am on my fifth 150 all 2wd. I had a 83 XL 302/AOD RC/SB. Mildly modified with 4bbl, better exhaust, and some tuning. At 218k the rust was getting bad, but I still regret selling Old Red. My next three were all 300s with 5 speeds. The 94 was a RC/SB and was a great truck but was having some suspension/rust issues and a great deal came along for a 95 SC/SB. The 95 did everything and surprised me at how easily it hauled a 5000lb trailer. At 265k the transmission was making noise, the head gasket was starting to show signs of failing and the cross member was rotting out. It was the best truck I have ever owned. My current 96 is a RC/LB and I bought it because it has very little rust.
I prefer the fuel systems and improved electrical systems on the 93-96 models. As a previous poster stated the rust and suspension system deserve a close inspection. Also check for oil leaks on the oil pan and rear main seal.
I prefer the fuel systems and improved electrical systems on the 93-96 models. As a previous poster stated the rust and suspension system deserve a close inspection. Also check for oil leaks on the oil pan and rear main seal.
Elder User
Joined: Sep 2012
Posts: 505
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I'd look for things that have been "mickey-moused" ... undoing work by the PO that's not up to spec can be aggravating.
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Senior User
Joined: Dec 2010
Posts: 359
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From: Shafer, MN
Love the 302, have an 96 f150 2wd with a 302, besides a little trouble with heavy snow in winter. its the best truck Ive ever owned.
has enough power to do things I need to do, but its not like im wasting a bunch of engine power by not constantly hauling stuff.
has enough power to do things I need to do, but its not like im wasting a bunch of engine power by not constantly hauling stuff.
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