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What model and features?

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Old May 29, 2004 | 04:50 PM
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What model and features?

I'm thinking of getting a 97 or newer f150. Is there any year model i should stay away from or lean to? What engine would be the best choice for durability. I see that the gas mileage for the 4.6 V8 is only slightly worse than that of the 4.2 V6. Is there much of a power difference? I have driven an auto 99 f150 xl with the 4.2 and it didn't seem to quite have the power of my 300 I6. I have always had a manual and am leaning toward an automatic this time. Any input would be appreciated.
 
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Old May 29, 2004 | 10:10 PM
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I would go with the 5.4L and a 2000-up model year. I like the front end better on the newer ones and the 5.4L has plenty of power and the gas mileage isn't much worse than the 4.6L. The resale value with a 5.4L is more too if you ever deside to sell it.
I like my OFFROAD 4x4 ext cab myself. Try to find a truck with the factory towing package, it will have a hitch, trailer wiring, and a tranny cooler.
 
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Old May 29, 2004 | 11:34 PM
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So many F-150's sold new = so many available used. Be a little picky, wait for a good one with the equipment you want. I definitely would select a V8 model, even with today's ridiculous gas prices. I never heard anyone complain about a truck being too powerful.
 
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Old May 30, 2004 | 08:20 AM
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I have a work truck with the v6 and gas mileage is worse than some of the other guys with v8. It simply has to work too hard. I also like the front ends of the newer style. If your used to the torque of the 300 with manual tranny, you will NOT like the 4.2. I had two trucks with the 300 and wished I could still get one.
 
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Old May 30, 2004 | 03:30 PM
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I'm thinking i will get one with the 4.6. I have no need for the extra power of the 5.4. I'll be driving it an hour a day to school so i think i'll get a new exaust and a K&N air filter to help a little with the gas mileage. Could anyone reccomend a inexpensive yet quality exaust system the will give me a nice rumble (not too loud) and improve gas mileage? Also i like the one's with the honeycomb grill, which year(s) did these come?
 
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Old May 30, 2004 | 04:09 PM
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I know that 2001-up have the grill you like. Also, get an auto trans, the 5-speeds are pretty weak. I have a Flowmaster and dual tailpipes on mine.
 
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