Like some of the others, a 4x4 F250 is my dream truck, long bed and expanded cab. I just sold my 1986 F150 and now it's time to move on up.

I don't think I can afford a new truck unless Ford comes up with some really good financing. Therefore, I've been trying to decide if I go with an older model like a 1997, or 1998 or try and get into a used new style 2000 or 2001. Reading the messages, it sounds like most people are unhappy with the 1999s with it being the first year of the redesign.

I'm also curious about diesels. Growing up, my family had nothing but Ford trucks. The first being a 1968, and trading up every three years. My father always said buy the biggest engine you can afford. How do diesels fit into this philosophy?

Bottom line, what's the best year?

 

I may never buy another gas engined truck again. Love my PSD, good power, mountains of torque, and try getting 18.5 mpg in a 7500# 4x4 with a big block.

If you do go with a superduty diesel, get a 99.5 or newer. Also note that the powerstrokes go back to the 94 models, so there is lots of room to choose.

As always, this is JMO.

BFM

 

I had a "97" xtend cab long whl base SD PSD w/4.10 rear, pulling
a 7500# TT. Great truck,never a problem. Traded it for a "99"
same configuration pulling same TT and later a 13K# 5th whl. Neither truck even knew the trlr was behind it, however overall
the "97" was a much better truck. The "99" had a surge problem
shifting from intermediate to high from the git go. Traded it
for an "01" F350 crew cab xtend bed SD PSD dually w/3.73 rear,
by far the best yet. All this by way of saying, stay with a pre
"99" or go with an "01". Good truckin. Course if you drive a
Ford it has to be good.

 

 

There is no 98 F250 trucks. The 99 model came out in very early 98. I had a early 99 F350 with no big problems. I only traded it because I wanted/needed a dually. Trailer life magazine did a review of the diesel vs V10 and they are performance equals. Sure, the diesel gets better mileage, but you pay a $4000 premium for that. Something to consider if money is tight. My truck listed below will smoke a diesel in a unloaded drag race and keep up with it pulling a load.

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2000 F350 CC DRW Lariat 4x4 LWB 4R100 V10 4.30ls with Torklift tie-downs/Superhitch and Rancho RS9000 and Ride-Rite air springs.
1998 Alpenlite Pendelton 11'10" Slide-in camper with all options.