I have looked for an FAQ here on general issues to be aware of with the F-150 and have found none. I am looking for suggestions beyond those found in the owner's manual.

My question is this: I just bought a 1997 F-150 5.4L longbed standard cab with 106,000 miles. The truck is in generally good condition but I want to ensure that I am on top of preventative maintenance.

I assume that the previous owner took reasonably good care of the truck based on its condition. The truck looks good and runs well. However, I don't want to miss anything.

Are there any suggestions on what I should look for/replace for prevention's sake at this mileage?

Thanks.

BigBologna

 

Do you have the owners manual?
I would change the trans fluid, front & rear differential fluid, flush coolant system, change transfer case fluid and oil change. Check all the hoses for any soft spots or swollen areas. See if the owner before you changed the plugs.
On my old 98, the ball joints and tie rods were shot around 75000 miles. Make sure these are also looked at.
I am pretty **** about maintanece so some would say the above list is over exageratted. I don't like to be broke down on the side of the road during the middle of a snow storm either.

 

Thanks for the response. The owners manual came with the truck but no service was noted as complete.

I agree. I don't want to be stuck by the side of the road. Of course we don't have snowstorms here.

I will take you up on your suggestions. The truck is a 2wd so no transfer case worries. I will be able to do the fluid changes/inspections on my own. Tie rods/ball joints have been inspected and are in fine shape.

 

I assume the previous owner did not keep any maintenance records for the truck? This would be only positive way to tell if that person really took good care of the vehicle. Usually, the way the vehicle "drives" is a better indication of how it was cared for, rather than how it "looks". If you can get in touch with that person, you might ask if he/she still has previous maintenance records. If they don't, all you have is their "word" that they took care of it. If you know this person well, that might be acceptable. Otherwise, take it to a mechanic to completely check it over.

My 2 cents

 

I'd look for less obvious things; like; has the coolant been changed, has the brake fluid been changed (it collects moist over time), fuel filter, etc.

also since it is a '97, make sure it has the upgrades to avoid the dreaded coolant loss issue.

 

sorry i was thinking the 4.2L on the cooland loss

 

On a side note, you have a fairly rare truck. Long beds with the 5.4 were not very common. You'll like the 30 gallon tank. I had the same on my 98, and could get 400 plus miles out of a tank. That was a 4 wheel drive truck, so your 2 wheel drive should have no problem getting 400 or more miles on a tank.

 

Interesting to know. Thanks. That 5.4 is a growler.