Well, thanks to some useful info from youse guys here, I'm picking up my 237k mile '97 F150 next week.

I originally asked everybody their opinion on such a high-mile engine, and based on responses, and searching the old threads, the seller and I agreed on a $5,500 price.

I had a good dealer inspect it, and they found bad lower ball joints and upper control arm bushings, oil leak somewhere at the back of the engine (they didn't think it was rear main seal), some leaks on the oil cooler fittings, rear axle seals are "seeping", and that's about it! Tranny, A/C, brakes, electrical/hydraulic systems all good, and I had them do a compression check on #1 cyl, and it checked out 150 psi. Owner says it used no oil between changes.

So we'll see how this pans out. The owner is picking up an '04 from the same dealer he bought the '97 from, and that's where I'm picking up the '97.

I'll let everyone know just how well a 237k 4.6L runs when I get it home!

Thanks all!

 

That's awesome, man. Here's to wishing you many years and many more miles of excellent service from your new (to you) truck! Viva la 97 4.6!

 

Mr. High mileage, just make sure all the caution lights (brakes, check engine, abs..) are working and there are no burnt out bulbs. Wouldn't hurt to check all the fluids either (rear end, frt end, tranfer case, tranny) if you didn't already with the inspections.

I have 139,000 on my 4.6 (crown vic) romeo engine. It doesn't burn, drip, leak, or **** oil. I'm somewhat surprised at this because the car has a fast idle start-up (don't all fords?) which can lead to wear.