Let me preface this with I'm inexperienced with cars. I know how to do a few things including normal upkeep but that's the extent.

I'm looking at a 93 f150 with the 351m and want to know what I should look for that will let me know if its something I want to invest in or something ill end up dumping a lot of money into and ultimately regretting. Any advice?

 

First off are you sure its a 351M? In 93 the only 351s were 351Ws.
So if it does indeed have a 351M its been swapped in. It will also have a different transmission than factory for 93 due to the 351M using the big block 429/460 bolt pattern. Unless an adapter has been used.

If you arent very mechanical Id advise staying away as it seems its pretty custom and could get expensive to work on if farming out the work.

If its just a stock 351W truck remember its still 22years old and things do wear out eventually. You may be better off with a newer model to save money in the long run. Just my 2cents

 

I haven't seen it yet, ill have to check somehow when I look over it. And I have a family friend that does all of my work but custom parts aren't in my price range.

I'm stuck looking for a happy medium between a dependable AND cheap vehicle (under ~2500). I don't know how to spot a good car in an auction and there's rarely anything worth the price their asking for on craigslist.

Thanks for your 2 cents lol

 

You probably won't be able to find a dependable truck for under $2500. Trucks hold their value much more than cars. Look for the lowest mileage least molested vehicle you can find.