Hey guys, so I'm pretty new to the forum here, but it seems like there's a fair amount of information. I just can't seem to find what I'm looking for in a search.

I already own a 92 F-150, but I'm really looking to upgrade to a used F-250. What I want to know is though: what should I look out for when buying one? I know we all like to think they're perfect, but they're not. What are the most common issues on a 1999 or 2000 F-250, with 100K miles?

I'm going to test drive an automatic, 2000, 4x4 (auto hubs),extended cab 250 with the 5.4 in it tomorrow and it would just be great to have your guys' help.

thanks in advance!!

[and on a side note: what do you guys think would be a fair price for the above mentioned truck? mechanically sound, just one fairly big dent)

 

Sounds like your looking at a ESOF truck(electric shift on the fly) 4x4 system,,,make sure the 4x4 works,,,,make sure you can turn the hubs from auto to lock posistion manually,,the ESOF system works off vacum and electric shift transfer case,,,there are issue with this system sometimes,,,the hubs can be locked manually,,if there not froze up,,(they can usually be removed and cleaned/lubed up.

 

Take the VIN number to a Ford dealer service desk and have them print out the OASIS report. You will learn an awful lot about the vehicle. Not everything but it would be extremely wise to do this.

 

^thanks guys. I kind of knew about the auto hub thing, but I'll have to do some more research. and as for the OASIS report, I thought they quit doing those? I may be wrong. I'll give it a shot before I head out there.

 

spark plugs. the years you're looking at are notorious for shooting them out of the heads with the threads... alot of topics on it on this forum. i've spit two out in my '99 so far.

early '99s have a few different front end parts than the '99.5 and newer trucks, but nothing major. mine is an early '99 and i've never had any troubles finding parts for it.

speaking of front end parts, there are a few things i've seen discussed often, and been thru myself. ball joints, obiviously, but there a bunch of seals, bearings, and washers from the outside of the front axle tubes on out... i've had to do both sides on my truck. about $100 in parts per side and a day in the garage (which i never mind.. provided the fridge is stocked ). and if you do get an ESOF truck, then like mentioned, there are common issues with that. luckily i have the old school manual lockers and stick t-case shifter.

if you do get a 5.4 and plan on pulling with it or putting bigger tires on.... try to find one with a 4.10 gearset in it.

for the truck you mentioned, i wouldn't pay more than $8-9000 for if its in good condition.... but i dont know what they're going for now or where you are. i bought my '99 three years ago in awesome shape with 76,000 on the clock for less than $9k.