Jebby, it is a typical Internet myth and it comes from the fact they do not have big HP or torque to compete against say a turbo diesel so they get run down.
It is one of those persistent myths which actually helps the OPs cause because of the lower perceived resale value.
A friend of mine just recently bought a 2008 F150 XLT 4x4 with 5.4 for $9K, not sure the mileage but it is rust free and good interior and good paint. Really looks like it was well taken care of.
If that was a F250/350 in that year with a 6.8 or Diesel it would have been north of $18K-$30K in my area right now.
Last year, I sold my 2003 F250 4x2 with 5.4 with nearly 240,000 miles for just under $3K although my 2003 did have the dreaded rusted out bed wheel wells (I did weld in repair panels so my DD could drive it) and the drivers door needed some rust repair, the vehicle drove perfect and was dead nuts reliable. The young kid that bought it was as happy as pig in mud, he was tired of using beat up old worn out Rangers for his landscaping business which was all he could afford.. I was glad that it gave him a better vehicle for his business and it was in a price range he was able to pay cash for.
Everyone has to start somewhere with what they can afford..
