OK gents, I have owned most makes of truck over my lifetime, but never larger than 1/2 ton. Im going to move up to a F250. My question is, not knowing much about these trucks what are the things/common issues I need to look for before I buy a problem. When I buy one the truck will def be a diesel prob a 6L, unless I find a 7.3 in good shape, tranny im not too particular about auto or 6M, and it will be a 4x4. Thanks.

 

First you should go more in depth on the truck, what motor does it have, auto or manual tranny, those sorts of things. Also welcome to FTE CharlieMurphy

 

Are you looking at a gas or diesel engine? Automatic or manual? 4X4? How many miles?

EDIT: rollerstud98, you beat me to it!

 

Personally I am surprised to find out that eddie murphy's brother is a pickup man.

 

And it begins...

 

I think first you need to narrow down the truck you are after by when you intend to use it for.

Are you going to haul heavy or light loads? How much wt?

Then are you going to just be in the city or hwy or mixed use?

What about towing? if so how much? 5th wheel or will you use a reciever?

Those are some of the questions I would ask right away. Then maybe we all here can give a recommendation on a 250/250/350/450.

 

Nevermind.

 

Hey, I'm sorry for not reading your original post more closely... I've been on vacation this week so apparently I stopped thinking all together. Ha!

Engines - Ok, so if you are looking at either the 7.3 or 6.0 diesel engines... there are things to consider. Maintenance is a critical factor in the longevity of these diesel engines. Routine maintenance (oil changes, fuel filter changes, etc.) are absolutely required. Don't be afraid of a truck that has over 100K miles as these engines are designed for 300K miles and more. Get on OASIS report to see what has been performed on the truck from the dealership(s). We use to be able to get the OASIS reports here on the forum but that is no longer the case.

Transmissions - Depending on the year, the truck may have the 4R100 or Torqshift transmission. There were several improvements (5 speed, super strong, smooth) made when the Torqshift was offered in 2004, so it is desirable in these trucks. I haven't heard any complaints about the manual transmissions. They will not be offered in the 2010 trucks.

4X4 / Suspension - The ball joints are weak points in the SD's. Really look over all of the front suspension components. It can get costly if you have to make repairs. Also, you may want to avoid the ESOF as there are many people who have had problems with vacuum issues (hoses, relays, etc).

Others will chime in who know more about the diesel engines. Again, I apologize for not reading your original post more closely... we asked a lot of questions that you had already addressed.

 

An F350 is going to have a higher rated sticker for towing. If you like a 6.0 truck requst an OASIS report from a Ford dealer. This will give you any repair history done by Ford dealers. Auto or manual is really your choice either one will serve you well.

 

2010 build and price is up on www.fordvehicles.com. Manual transmissions and V10s for one more year. 2011 should be the big change.