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!

 

Rust, rust and more rust. Look for broken leaf spring shackles, broken shock mounts. Check for slipping in the transmission. Feel carefully for a misfire (especially on 302 applications).

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Thanks a lot guys, this gives me a great idea of where to start

 

I'd look for things that have been "mickey-moused" ... undoing work by the PO that's not up to spec can be aggravating.

 

Take your code reader. Ask for permission to use it. If they won't let you, leave.

 

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.