First post for me! Go easy on me guys -- I just sold my 1999 F350XLT 7.3L Diesel 4x4 SRW Crew Cab because I can't afford it anymore on my (newly) single income ...

Now I'm looking at a 1996 F150XL 4X4 I6/Auto (4.9L in Canada, I think that compares to your 300?) at an upcoming local highways auction. Excellent condition, 124,000 miles, interior looks great, air, boxliner, no hitch (yet). I have a small farm in the mountains and need the truck for general farm work and occasional hauling (gravel, hay) but only emergency towing of 2 horses (max 5000lbs, say). The auctioneer is expecting the truck to sell for the equivalent of $2-3000 US dollars. Private sale trucks of the same configuration go for about $6-8500 US dollars around here, IF you can find them.

Can any of you with similar trucks give me some input? Is this truck going to suit my needs and is the price a bargain?

 

That sounds like the PERFECT truck for your needs, and the price is outstanding. The 4.9L engine is the best gasoline truck engine Ford ever made, and will last you forever. It's no racetruck, but it will tow anything anywhere. My '95 has a 5 speed, which I prefer, but the auto tranny is better for towing.

Honestly, I don't think you could have done any better. Good luck at the auction!

Take care,
~Chris

 

Yea, that model truck is incredible. As
PKRWUD pointed out, it isn't a race horse but other than that, these trucks are tough. I'd like to point out also that I 4-wheel my truck all summer long on some pretty narly trails and I've never broken a thing. Go for it.