I'm planning on upgrading my truck soon. I intend to lift it and put at least 34s or 36s on it, and i think this generation of F150 is closest to my price range. Is there anything I should watch out for when looking for one? Anything I should be aware of once I own one?

 

some of the '04 -'05 models had vibration problems and the early 5.4 3v motors had cam phaser knock(sounds like a diesel at idle). I think they had the problem fixed by late '06 models, the knock doesn't hurt anything but on some motors it can be loud enough to bug some people. The 5.4 3v motors have problems with the sparkplugs sticking in the head and breaking off when you try to remove them, but most shops have done enough by now that it isn't as big of a deal as it used to be, as long as you follow the TSB for plug removal and take your time. Also the IWE system for the 4x4 is a little complicated and can cause some problems because of vacuum leaks ect.. All in all even with the problems these can have, this generation of 150's is worlds better than the previous ones, they ride better, handle better, are quieter, and are built like tanks. I'd just find one you like and take it on a long test drive, if it doesn't have any vibrations or other noticable problems then you should be good to go. If the truck has more than 40,000 miles you might want to think about getting the plugs changed right away, the longer they're in there the harder they will be to get out.

 

Thanks a lot for the input fordman. I intend to get a regular cab short bed 4x4 with the 5.4L 3v. I was aware of the spark plug issue, but im sure i can handle extracting a broken plug.
I think Im going to aim for a 06-08 to avoid the problems you mentioned.

 

I'm on my 2nd day from upgrading from an '02 to an '04. Both trucks equipped almost identical. The '04 will blow the doors off the '02. It handles 10 x's better. Rides a lot smoother. Much quieter. I think the '04 has better visibility from inside the cab. I love how the side mirrors are setup, they work real well for seeing what's beside you.