Ford F-150 Want-need your input.

[Cacher]

:sombrero:Seeking input from the Eportal experts here.:sombrero:

I am planning on finding a used Ford F-150 4x4 1992-1996 shortbed, and putting a pop up on it. Ninth generation (1992–1996/1997)

I need your input on which is the best for the dollar, and most dependable.

I would like a short bed for sure, no more longbeds. I am not really into another standard transmission, but who knows.

As for the pop up, which is the value for the cash? Would I want one like a Wildernest? Maybe, but I would really like a small "studio apt on wheels" actually.

:victory:

 

[redthies]

Having owned said F150 in the past I suggest you think "LIGHT" for your camper. I have also found that I got better gas mileage out of my F250 with 460 5 spd than I did out of the 300 6cyl auto. Thus, a V8 will be your best bet with a camper. You might want to look at airbags for the weight of the camper. 4wheel campers are about as light as they come, and there is a whole sub-forum here devoted to that type of slide-in.

 

[mustangwarrior]

i currently own a 96 f150 reg cab long bed, i would definatly go with that year f150 if i were you, mine has the 302 v8, gas mileage isn't the best i average between 13 and 14 mpg but it is a 4x4 with a v8 so....

the 302 is nice because it is the same platform as 5.0 mustangs so performance mods are nearly endless, it is simple to work on, there is a ton of room in the engine bay making things such as changing spark plugs pretty easy

no complaints with the suspension either, the TTB front suspension makes lift kits easy to install and keeps prices low

i would go long bed for a camper though, however i don't like how much the bed flexes off road and with an 8ft hard tonneau, it looks and sounds pretty bad sometimes, overall though, i love my truck

 

[strider3700]

well I have a 97 F350 crewcab longbox auto with the 5.8L and get 10.5mpg in town, 13-14 highway. so based on mustangwarriors numbers you don't save much going with the 1/2ton. Besides the thirst for fuel my only complaints about the truck are it's lack of cupholders and crappy headlights.

 

[mustangwarrior]

i didn't even think they put the 5.8 in one tons, i imagine urs is probly set up for towing, with different gears and everything