I’ve test driven an old F250 4x4 that I plan on using as a farm truck. It’s got some dents and dings but overall in good shape. The things I noticed mechanically are: the front drivers makes a popping sound when turning and a little bit of a roar. I’m thinking ball joints and bearings might be needed. The previous owner says he replaced the torque converter last year and the alternator but he’s not sure if the injectors are original or not. Seems like there’s a lot of old dried oil on front axle and tie rods but I couldn’t see an active leak and he claims it doesn’t leak any oil between changes. He’s looking for 5k and that doesn’t seem too bad but only if I don’t get into a huge repair bill shortly after I buy it. What do you guys think? Where should I look for the origin of that oil? Anything else I should be looking for? Thanks

 

I’m guessing this is a 7.3L diesel???

The oil could be gear box, HPOP, oil cooler etc. Start the truck and remove the oil cap and turn it upside down, does it just bounce around or blow off? This will give you an indicator of any blow by.

 

Yes a diesel. Thanks I’ll do it.

 

What to look for? Anything thats not worn out LOL.. lotsa miles means parts wear out. good luck.

 

Last year I bought a 2000 dually with 270k on it. So far all I replaced is brakes, tires and now front locking hubs. There are some little electrical gremlins that I haven't started chasing yet. The oil is probably the power steering leaking as every Ford I have owned had a P/S leak. The auto trans is all I would worry about.
Sounds like a bargain as I gave $7700 for mine.

 

More than you probably want to know :

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/5...ml#post3927460