We are looking at buying a 1997 ford f150 v6 4.2 w/ 35k miles. The truck doesn't look clocked or like it was in an accident and is really clean.

Two questions:

My mechanic says that engine is not at all good in that it overheats and will be problems. He also claims the gas mileage will be about 12 combined.

1.Is the engine considered strong or poor?
we don't want to spend money on maintanance.

2.What can we expect for gas mileage?

thank you:
mark.

 

Hi Mark,

I have a 97 4.2 with 140000 miles. I bought it with 9000. I have had to rebuild at 116000 due to failed lower intake gasket(common problem with 97/98). This is the only problem due to poor design with this motor that I know of. So to answer your questions:

1. It's a V6 so I wouldn't call it strong. I would call it very adequate for most 1/2 ton duties. I regulary pull a 2000lb trailer and have no problem running as fast as i want on flat ground and maintaining 65 mph on steep bridges (no mountains here). Some may call the motor poor, I don't. It has one well known flaw. Know the symptoms and you'll be fine. Just do a search for intake gasket and you'll see what symptoms I mean. My truck has NEVER left me stranded.

2. The gas mileage depends a lot on your right foot. the window sticker said 17mpg in town and 22mpg highway. I routinely get 16/17 in town and up to 23 on the highway. Even when pulling my trailer I get at least 15mpg. I don't know why the mechanic would say 12 that sound way too low.

The important question is how much do they want and what features does it have? It's all relative.

Good luck and you're smart for doing research before you buy.