In Mar 2003, "inherited" early 2001 F150 Supercrew 4x2 w/small V8 and seems 2 B 1 problem after another. In Sep 2003, while on trip from MD to SC, noticed smoke while in NC. Diagnosis=tranny fluid leak due to faulty tranny seal. Had to leave in NC for replacement & rent car to SC. Nov 2003, muffler & pipe just fell off on way home from work.

NOW, with 76K+ miles, ... hearing & feeling hesitation & vibration when accelerating from a stop. When ascending a hill & have 2 stop, vibration is worse when accelerating from stop & a "clunk" or shutter is heard. Noise & vibration appears to come from mid to rear of vehicle but can't B sure. Almost feels like something is not engaging. Concerns me because getting worse and I travel 30+ miles 1-way to work & don't want 2 B left on hwy. Any ideas on what this could B?
FYI:As far as I know, never had a tune up.

1 more thing, since cold weather came in Dec 2003, the oil gauge remains lit and low until car/engine warms up, which is usually after it has idled for 5-10minute + 5minutes of driving. First time this occurred, had oil changed and still doing it. Is this really a problem or just a "Fordism"?

Any troubleshooting tips or ideas would be greatly appreciated!