I have an 86 150, which I like the 302--but am tired of the constant idle,stalling problems this year has. We put all kinds of ignition, fuel parts, filters, on it and computers, etc. every 6 months or so and it gets fixed for a while, then degrades back to the stalling, idling problems within 3 months or so...sigh. Husband hates it. Has a remanufactured engine too with 40,000 on it now. I kind of like it , good acceleration ,mileage-- I occasionally tow about 3,000 lbs. Small trailer with one small horse.
I get 15-17 mpg around town- 20 something on the hyway. Not bad. I'd like to get another year to do what I do......but this constant replacement of the same parts so often irks hubby and anyone else who works on it,and no matter what we do, it helps, till we replace everything suggested , but then 3 months later down it goes.....
Is there a more dependable year with normal maintance problems...like one that they have a fix for the problems that break and it has actually been figured out? And one you can put a computer on and read the codes? This year just seems to be too many thigns that if slightly off throw the computer off, like it is over sensitive. I dont' mind a stall when starting or cold. But stalling and surging and dieing at stop lights or in a parking lot pulling into parking spots; or sometimes stalling as you start to give it a little gas while crossing ain intersection can get dangerous.................
We have a 250 diesal- 2002-- so I don't need a bigger vehicle for towing the little bit I do .
Which year from 80's to 90's would you recoomend?

 

The 92-96 models are excellent trucks and you can pick one up for a good price. I highly recommend the 4.9l inline six for an engine, really good low-end torque for towing and will last forever.