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1987 - 1996 F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks 1987 - 1996 Ford F-150, F-250, F-350 and larger pickups - including the 1997 heavy-duty F250/F350+ trucks

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Old Apr 13, 2018 | 06:14 AM
  #1  
Hannahbelle's Avatar
Hannahbelle
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Hello, Friends!

Good morning! I am new to forums such as this one, but recently my husband and I purchased a 1988 F350 and have decided we are going to slowly bring it back to life. It runs well enough to get us where we need to go, but I really want to make it look good as well. I've driven Fords most of my life (my first car was a 1970 Torino...wish I still had that one!) and have always wanted a big ol' older truck. We found one for a steal and I am super excited to gussy it up. I am hoping to get some advice and inspiration from you all as the project comes together.

I've included some pictures so you all can see what we are starting with (and to have a good laugh if so inclined). I'll be honest, we don't really know where to start.

We are going to take it to our mechanic and get everything that needs tightened tightened, and everything that needs lubed lubed. I think a priority should be the exterior due to all the, ahem, concerns, but certainly it might be more economical to start with refreshing the interior. Any thoughts?

Also, any recommendations for resources out there that might not be obvious to an amateur such as myself are appreciated.

You may not be able to tell from this photo, but someone tried to spray paint the rust away on the driver's side.


A little flawed, but that's okay.



Thanks for taking the time to check out our new addition. Looking forward to the journey!

- Hannahbelle
 
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Old Apr 13, 2018 | 07:40 AM
  #2  
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rla2005
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Great project truck you have there. Best advice is to invest in some real Ford service manuals, available on E-bay in many forms. Those trips to the "mechanic" are going to add up quickly. Learn to do as much DIY as possible.
 
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Old Apr 13, 2018 | 09:35 AM
  #3  
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Inside Man
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I agree with rla2005 here.

Also, jump on the net and get some free parts catalogs delivered.

Bronco Graveyard
National Parts Depot (NPD)
LMC Truck

.... are a couple of my personal go to's.

The most important thing and the very first thing however would be to invest in a good code reader. It can and will make your life much easier and will help you narrow down any issues your having.

Once again, see below for my personal go to.


 
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Old Apr 13, 2018 | 02:02 PM
  #4  
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sandymane
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From: Houston/Sugar Land
Originally Posted by Inside Man
I agree with rla2005 here.

Also, jump on the net and get some free parts catalogs delivered.

Bronco Graveyard
National Parts Depot (NPD)
LMC Truck

.... are a couple of my personal go to's.

The most important thing and the very first thing however would be to invest in a good code reader. It can and will make your life much easier and will help you narrow down any issues your having.

Once again, see below for my personal go to.



I agree with all the above that every one said. Another thing you can do is use it for a while and start a list of what you want to do and what it needs.. As the above said DIY is THE ONLY WAY TO DO IT UNLESS IT IS OVER YOUR SKILL LEVEL. I could never attempt fabrication so I would get an estimate. Get the total and see if you want to make the full journey you invision before starting making little investments that will add up very quickly that you could regret later. If you want good fabrication and a quality paint job, that alone will put your investment out of a good resale price to get near what you put in it. It adds up quick. This forum has saved me thousands. You came to the right place. Welcome. Sandy
 
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