I am looking to purchase an older F150. The one I found that I like, the dealer told me had a rust problem with the frame and that they fixed it. Any thoughts on whether this would be a good purchase? The truck is about 7 hours from where I live, so may still drive to take a look at it. It is a 2002 Ford F-150 Supercrew with 93,000. Do these model years have problems with frame rust? I am just worried if the rust or repair may have weakened the frame for towing which I plan on towing a camper with it. I am not familiar with these models or their known issues so just thought I would ask for opinions. Thank you so much in advance for my search for one

 

I definitely would get it inspected by a competent mechanic if I wasn't qualified to inspect it, before purchasing. You should be able to get them to show you what they repaired and how they repaired it. The radiator support seems to rust quickly. The rear diff cover tends to rust quickly. They can be replaced but the frame needs to be looked at carefully.

 

Whether they fixed it or not, I would not tow with a truck that has had a frame rust issue. Period.

 

Anyone know of replacement frame pieces for the supercrew? My 2002 had to be braced with strap steel to get things back in place. Will I need to dissect another one and graft 2 together?

 

All you can do is brace it. Once the frame is compromised, your pretty much already screwed

 

Find a competent welder. They can box it.

Be advised, a competent welder can make it stronger -- but you'll lose crumple zones in the event of a collision.