First post so Hi everybody

So as the topic says I'm looking into purchasing a F-150, need something to tow a pop-up i may purchase and prefer a 4x4 with at least extended cab (have a 3 year old so I need to fit a car seat). From previous research I've figured out that a 2001 seems to be the best option, my cost range is under $5K (if I am mistaken please correct me). But any option I can afford has at LEAST 100K on the odo, which I exspected. Currently have my eye on Beautiful 01 Lariat 4x4 with 215k on the clock with a 4.6L.

Any trouble spots I should look closely at?

Any advice at all?

Thanks for any help in Advance guys

 

I wouldn't step in to a 215k mile truck myself. If the engine has been properly maintained, it should be fine. At that mileage, I would think it could need ball joints, steering components, U-Joins, axle bearings, tensioner and idler bearings, coils, plugs, etc. Not many automatic transmissions exceed the 200k mark without religious maintenance.

I don't know your location, but rusty frames may be a concern. If the coolant doesn't look great, it will probably need a heater core.

I disagree with the 2001 statement myself. I'd rather have the PI engine with a metal intake manifold. The 2001 is plastic. Someone else can correct me if I'm wrong on the years, but I'd have 1999 or 2000.

If you're going to tow, I'd strongly recommend a 5.4 with a tow package and the 4R100 transmission. I thought towing sucked with the 5.4, I can't imagine a 4.6.

 

around here in mi you can find a truck that fits your needs and in the price range that has well under 215k. if your buying it solely to tow something id def go with the 5.4. i had a 4.6 stand. cab short bed 2wd and all i used to tow was a pair of jetskis, and on the freeway it was a dog.

as with anybody style you get, look out for rust on the rockers cab corners and bottom of doors and tail gate. styleside beds might have rust on wheel wells. supercrews and flareside beds will never have that problem since the outside of the bed is fiberglass.