I am currently driving a 1997 Ford F-150 XL 4x4 Scab LB that is having a few problems.

1: When accelerating sometimes there seems to be a loose almost lego sounding rattle coming from the front, probably something in the engine area

2: When idling, she idles rough for a second then off for a second, not real rough but I can feel the vibration.

3: When I let go of the steering wheel, she has a big fetish to swerve to the right. I know that is probably a front end alignment problem but have been told that it could be buschings or something.

4: The entire suspension seems to be making noise when hitting bumps.

Now this truck is owned by my father and I somehow have to get him to understand this truck doesn't sound in great shape anymore. Since this is a primary vehicle and he isn't the best at maintaining his vehicles and I can only do so much, I think he should trade it in for whatever they give and get a new truck, preferably a 2004 F150 or 2004 Dodge Ram. I pick Ford though if I had the decision. I just don't want him to be stranded in a broken down vehicle until he realises he can have better.

 

Does a bear **** in the woods?

Does the pope wear a funny hat?

 

Just get your dad to go and drive a new F-150, even if you tell him it's just for fun or to see what the fuss is all about. He'll want to get one then too.

 

Wait for the 2005's.

 

Go for it. I love this Truck

 

anything new in the 05's worth waiting for?

 

probably manaul tranny and a lot less problems overall. there are rumors of other improvements but no one really seems to know. if one can wait, i think it would be worth waiting for the 05 model.

 

Yes. I think everyone should have 2.

 

Agreed. And, you can order one in about two months.

 

This is the wrong place to ask such a question. Of course you should get a new F150. Just go drive one and you will understand all the "hooplah".

 

If the reason you would want an 04 is you don't want him stranded, then that is the wrong reson to buy one. They are just as bad as a properly maintained '97.
And more disappointing since you think if you spend $35K or more, it would not spend time in a shop.

 

i wish there was suicide doors on the screws for 05

 

you won't regret it.

 

Originally posted by nhed
If the reason you would want an 04 is you don't want him stranded, then that is the wrong reson to buy one. They are just as bad as a properly maintained '97.



Where did you get that data. I had a perfectly great '97 and the new one is better!

 

Yeah, my 97 hasn't stranded me yet, and I bet I am harder on mine than you are on yours.