so my 79 f150 is getting close to taking a crap on me, im tired of having to work on my daily driver all the time, and avoiding long drives since i get paranoid my truck wont make it. im not really a fan of the 97 and newer fords but they have somewhat grown on me. although i really prefer the 92-96 body style better.

anyways, ive already been truck shopping but havent found the right one yet, i dont wanna spend more than 8 grand so that puts the 97 and 98 fords in my price range but i dont know much about them. i just want a nice, reliable truck that will last me a while. i want 4x4 with the 5.4 or other v8.

is there anything i need to know about these trucks before buying one?

 

I think they are the same as every year of any make or model. They all have their problems. I know the 5.4 liters had some problems with the spark plugs blowing out. I have the 4.6 liter and it has been good so far.

 

I have a '97 4.6 Scab and wouldn't buy it again on a dare with money
someone paid me. Nothing but problems and expense. You mention working
on your daily driver. Well, I work on mine every other day. Good luck.

 

You must have got a lemon then. My '97 4.6L 4x4 has never given me one problem, besides the passenger side brake caliper sticking. Still has stock plugs, wires, exhaust (not for long), shocks, and everything else. Couldnt have gotten a better truck IMO!

 

My 98 Lariat was wonderful to me for two years and 30K miles before i traded it last year for a Supercrew. Supercab was simply too cramped for my family of four to ride in. The only weakspot on the 98 was the subpar brakes.

 

I really like my '99 F-150. Ive had some issues with it, but no vehicle is perfect. I love the power, hauling capability, comfort and the looks of this truck. Plus, all the ladies seem to love my truck, thats good enough for me!
I would try to find a '99 so that have the 3rd door, Id also try to find one with rear disc brakes (MUCH better than drums, IMO).
My F-150 has 132,000 miles on it and still drives like a brand new truck. Other than a slight oil leak on the passenger side of the motor, I cant complain about my truck.

 

I'd try to get a 99+ with the 5.4. More HP, upgraded dash, 4 doors (on supercabs), better looking front end (IMO), Super Crew available from 2000+.

I love my 2000 5.4 auto Supercab 4x4 ORP. I traded my 94 5.8 auto 4x4 standard cab in on this one and wouldn't ever trade back. Much smoother, more powerful engine (empty and towing). MUCH better fuel economy. Much better ride and interior. In short a 200% better truck.

Mike

Edit: Yeah, rear disks on 99+s. I bought my 2000 with 59K and it now has ~76K. I've only had to put front brakes and an O2 sensor in other than normal maintance.

Edit 2: I've never driven a 6 year/76000 mile old truck that has felt so new. Everything is still really tight. There are no squeaks or rattles and the steering is true as ever.

 

I have a 97 f-250lt duty 4x4 5.4 auto. I bought it 3 years ago with 50k and now have 90k. I have had no real problems so far. I love the truck but if i bought another one I would buy 99 or newer for more hp and forth door. My only complaint is I feel its under powered and I get 10 mpg town and 12.5 mpg highway. I think that 99 and newer run stronger and get better mpg.