Looking for part time TV for under $20K

jerem0621 wrote:

GearHead36 wrote:

hellfirehydra wrote:
I'd say a gasser is probably more realistic for <$20k.

That's what I'm finding, too. I haven't found a single diesel under $20K with less than 100K miles.

hellfirehydra wrote:
All of the big 3 put out good gas engines. I'd stay away from the 5.4L's in the older Fords(not because of any inherent problems, just lack of power for towing 9k lbs).

I've heard this engine described as "an engineering disaster"

hellfirehydra wrote:

The V10 Ford engine is an absolutely reliable great engine and I would probably lean that direction if able.

OK. I'll put that one at the top of the list.

Just keep in mind that the V10 and the 5.4 are very similar in design. The V10 is a 5.4 with 2 more cylinders added. The 5.4's that had more issues were the ones with cam phasers found in the half ton chassis. The HD 5.4's were good motors. The V10 and the 5.4 did have some spark plug issues but these are very minor and very rare in comparison to say...one or two Diesel injectors going bad. These motors can also have Exhaust manifold studs break.

If you search hard enough you can find issues with all these trucks.

Also, if you want a 7.3 PSD then I wouldn't settle for anything less. They are old but they are relatively easy to work on. There are tons and tons out there with 100-125k miles which is barely broken in for these trucks. You just have to be patient and you will need to be prepared to travel.

When I bought my 1999 V10 CC LB Dually I traveled over four hours to get it. 139k miles and I spent $5,500.

Just scour Auto Trader, Craigslist, and Car Guru's and be ready to go travel to get your truck.

Thanks!

Jeremiah

One of my old bosses that I stay in contact with has an 02 F250 with the 5.4 in it. He sent me a text a couple years ago showing his truck past the 500,000 mark. Still runs like a sewing machine. He had his share of plugs blowing and a couple transmissions but he put that truck though HE!! when he worked here. He's one of those people that read the morning paper , talk on the cell phone and eats his breakfast sandwich at the same time while driving. I've driven that truck a many mile from the passenger seat while going places with him. LOL!