I'm going to look at a 2003 F-150 Super Crew. It was purchased at an auction by a small used car dealer with a good reputation.

It looks clean and the Car Fax Report is clean also but, it has 238000 miles. There has only been one owner whome I have no contact with.

My big concerns are about the engine and tranny. What do I need to look for as tell tail signs of trouble? What sounds should I hear or not hear? How should the ride feel? What should the transition from 2 High into 4 High be like? The engine is a 5.4 V-8 and the tranny is an automatic.

Thanks

 

I wouldn't be afraid of the mileage. I would start by considering the overall condition of the truck. Condition of seats, interior, exterior paint, box and body for dents and scrapes. How it looks will be a good indicator of how it has been cared for. The ride should be tight and solid. As with any used vehicle there should not be any clunks or anything like that from the front end. The 2wd, 4wd should engage smoothly with out any grinds or howls.
The rear end and tranny have likely been rebuilt by now. However if you aren't sure, check the fluid to ensure it is pink and doesn't smell burnt. The tranny should shift smoothly without any slippage and there should be no howling or whining from the rear diff.

My own truck is an 01 4X4 Supercrew with nearly 200,000 miles. It rides and looks like new. It is tight, solid and feel like a new truck. If the price is right, condition is excellent buy with confidence and enjoy.