[zipfactor]

Hey all,

I am looking into buying a truck. I have been looking at a 2001 Ford F-150 for $5000. The truck has 100,000 miles on it. Is this a good deal? How long do F-150's usually last? It has the 4.2L V6 with a 5 speed. I do not want to spend more than $5000 for a new vehicle, but I also do not want something that is old. I was also thinking of buying a chevy s-10 but have heard they are not very reliable. I have seen an 2003 s-10 with 63,000 miles for $5000. The only problem is I would like to be able to move my project car with a car dolly if necessary and I dont think an s-10 would be able to do that. Let me know your opinons.

Thanks,
Ben

[jetnow1]

Before you deside check the tow rating on the f-150. With the manual trans
thay are not rated to tow very much. just a heads up JIM

[pigjamelectric]

Go to Youtube and check out that or similar model year Ford crash tests. (I would link it but it's blocked at work) Kinda freaky to see the driver front wheel practically end up on the dummy's lap. Chev and Dodge of the same era performed much better.

[silentpoet]

Check with your insurance agent what the rates would be for either truck. Add that up with the gas expenses plus any payment to determine how it looks money wise. Then you have to weigh what the towing ability is worth and make a decision, but at least you will have solid numbers to base your decision on.

[matt167]

Get a Ranger with the 4.0L... There considered a light duty 1/2 ton, and with the tow package they have a decent tow rating..you'll get the best of both worlds, small truck with some big truck capabilities .. a '98-2000 will run around $5k..

I have a '98 2WD 4cyl, upgraded from my '92 4x4 that has 202,000 miles.. both 5spd trucks