The Tenth Gen Ford F-150 Is a Fantastic Affordable Classic: Here's Why!

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In this video Andre goes in-depth with a 2003 Ford F-150 and discovers why they can be great classic trucks on a budget!
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#Ford #F150

[@chevboy2]

That truck is literally the Epitome of the best f-150 ever. Proven Crown Vic 4.6, manual trans, power windows/mirrors, comfy cloth seats. I’m a GM guy but would totally daily this

[@supersnot4]

Even the 5.4 in this truck was solid as hell. This had the 2V, only issue was shooting spark plugs but that was completely avoidable. The 4.2 V6 was also available in these. That engine is way too underappreciated, it's nearly as reliable as the old 300 I6.

[@bldontmatter5319]

@@supersnot4 easily. The issue is the early years of these trucks. I have a 4.2 with 70k on it and it's a 2003, past the head gasket years. Plan to keep it till I die

[@Contreras-z4e]

Exactly

[@johnbaumgartner4309]

Had a 2002 Supercrew same engine it worked well. Deer took it out after 12 years

[@dannyjudge2876]

I have the same engine and trans in my 10th gen it surprises me time and time again

[@rottieshepcalibre9156]

my OCD reached stratospheric levels when Andre took the plastic bed liner out and didn't fit it back properly

[@anthonynelson2005]

Scrolled down to see if someone else said anything about this.

[@MS-mr4zm]

Same lol

[@d.k.2272]

Omg same. Ugh 😂

[@jplifts3008]

Same, drives me nuts!

[@piakirei28]

ikr... 😂

[@TunerGuy_90]

Probably the best truck Ford has ever made. Everyones dad, uncle, neighbor, grandpa, maintenance guy etc had this truck, and I still see them on the road. My favorite generation F150!!!

[@alb5753]

I’ve never seen an f150 from that generation that clean, good looking truck, should last forever if it’s taken care of.

[@richardenright1431]

I definitely agree with u on that, that is one clean f150 from that generation I have a very clean one also 2002 XL 122xxx miles was my dads he bought it new and took extremely good care of it and it lived in Chicago for 90% of its life then went down south when my parents retired and now it’s with me back in the Chicago area after I inherited it after my dad passed and I plan to preserve it cause it’s so hard to find good examples of these trucks nowadays. She have never seen salt since I have had her I always store it in the back of my garage when winter comes :-)

[@Jeremy-fy1sz]

@@richardenright1431 I found a gem with less than 60k in mint condition. Bought and had it on the road for 5k total this summer. It's been absolutely solid.

[@richardenright1431]

@@Jeremy-fy1sz that’s awesome love hearing about nice clean examples of theses trucks :-)

[@thedaddyofstolenmemes8112]

Those F150s are nice my pops has one he got it for 2600$ with just 132k miles its the Supercrew Cab full 4 door package XLT with the 2v 5.4 i love driving it the v8 sounds badass and the backseats are suprisingly comfortable

[@matthewvanallen4837]

My grandpa passed last June and left me his. 70k miles, zero rust. It's like driving a brand new truck off the line.

[@chadkeogh4720]

My 1999 F-150 Lariat has 436,000kms and is still going strong! Best vehicle I have ever owned.

[@neonshark337]

No joke. My 1998 f150, 4.6l has 288,000 miles, around 463,000 km, still kickin' pretty good. I'm about to install a better stereo and speakers though.

[@WaderTheHater]

2001 5.4 267k still runs great

[@pel6586]

It has struts , that little metal thing In the front is not for the hood it’s for in case you get a flat you can lower your spare tire ☺️

[@noedeleon4218]

I had a 99 expedition and i found out that that little rod under the hood was to lower the spare tire lol 🤣

[@travisb9130]

@@noedeleon4218 yep! You can also use it to raise and lower the jack. The rangers came with a collapsible one and you could use the square in the middle of the tire iron to turn it.

[@FA-tz6en]

Haha.. I was about to comment on that.. You covered it already!

[@Fat2Fit5k]

Sadly my truck didn't come with a jack for it so just used for spare

[@iindicaii]

I was looking for this comment. That's to crank up your bottle jack.

[@martinleavitt6094]

Best looking Fords. Gen -10..1997-2003..🤘

[@mrbluejeans09]

these bodystyle of Ford's have a special place in my heart, because 7-8 years ago my dad had one, and it was the BEST

[@joepop6461]

my grandpa owns a '99 f150 xlt automatic. 125,000 miles and no problems

[@caseytodd7632]

Pro tip for the owner: as far as the spark plugs, if and when you replace them, factory torque spec is 10-13 lbs. Ford (unofficially) revamped this to 20-23 lbs to correct this. Apply a small amount of anti-seize, over torque them to 20ish, and they'll never back out!

[@TinkeringTom91]

That's more a 5.4 issue not 4.6 I believe

[@SirtubalotTX]

@@TinkeringTom91 Same heads. 5.4 can spit em too but not really a big deal. From what I've gathered over time it's mainly because people were over torquing the plugs. It's not a difficult fix if you know what you're doing and you can update the heads with eight thread spark plug holes to eliminate problem all together.

[@MyFriendPeter-d4k]

no anti seize!

[@caseytodd7632]

@@MyFriendPeter-d4k No anti seize for original factory torque specs, correct. But.. as I said.. you're basically doubling the torque spec. A little anti seize just keeps them from being too difficult to remove later.

[@Squirrely429]

its a ford mod motor issue. even with 11th gen f150s. if it dont come out with a 3/8ths ratchet.. leave it soak in atf or oil. Get it hot. so oil works around the threads. might take a couple days or so.

[@razorback02]

That's a great truck! The rod under the hood isn't a prop rod, it's the handle for raising and lowering the jack and lowering the spare from under the truck. Also, The 4.6 is not really prone to the spark plug issue as much as the 5.4 or the v10!

[@AraceaeFanatics]

I came here to say this.

[@KLAWNINETY]

I have an 03 with a 4.6 and it indeed blew all 8 sparks plugs out over the years. I don't really care though I bought it with one blown out on the cheap and did the repair for like $30 (I borrowed the special tool kit) and it runs perfectly.

[@razorback02]

@KLAW90 I didn't say it was immune to the issue. Just less prone.

[@paxtonkington9186]

The 5.4L and 4.6L use the same cylinder head. Mostly has to do with installer error, remember this the first year of Ford trucks to get aluminum heads from the factory. Old head boomers working on these things weren’t recognizing that you can’t just crank the spark plugs dummy right into the head anymore like you used to be able to with a cast iron head.

[@CaelinHyepock_64]

All triton engines that had spark issues the 4.6 and 5.4 have the same heads, still just a mint truck I have a 2003 f-150 5.4 v8 and a 2001 f-150 4.2 v6

[@kademuncy4545]

I daily drive a 10th gen F-150. They sure are awesome trucks

[@Gofishinmore]

Sold my 01 XLT 5.4 liter in January and bought a 2021. As much as I love my new f150 I'll never forget how reliable that 01 was while I had her. Never broke down the 4yrs I owned it.

[@salgonzalez908]

Had mines for about 10 years and boy it was such a powerful little gremlin, it was also fun to off-road since it wasn’t some oversized land yacht. My new ram 1500 could never

[@MrFordguy73]

Same, I just bought a 21 in March, but my 2000 model F-150 will still be in the stable, my 10-year-old adores it, not to mention it'll probably get me out of the pinch when my 21 is in the shop because there's so much stuff on it, don't get me wrong I love the new one but I know it's probably going to be finicky compared to my 2000.

[@bldontmatter5319]

4 years? Seriously? Lol. I've had mine 19 years, no breakdowns.

[@Rockymountainklx]

I love my 2001 f-150, it’s been an amazing truck for my needs. The 5.4 isn’t a powerhouse but does get the job done! Great snow vehicle. 10th gens are underachievers

[@Bigshiesty1]

Same here, mines run fast and I got my expedition to leave it rest

[@trentklair9979]

Proud owner of 01 Supercrew F150 4x4. Had it since November 2018. Been very reliable, a few common parts replaced but nothing serious or at all expensive. Fun fun fun doing 4low donuts in snow, especially if it's a foot deep or more, it's like a merry go round or a spinning top, no back end drift spinning wider than front, it's dizzying. Select 4x4 low in park, shift to neutral & pause, then to Drive or 1, hear & feel it engage first then crank the steering wheel, stand on the accelerator pedal let that 5.4 Triton power become a Tasmanian snow devil. Just stop before ya get sick lol, I love all four tires rooster tailing snow and turning tight circles fast like on a center axis amusement park ride, in leather upholstery Ford Lariat truck comfort. 235,000 miles, gorgeous glossy red & silver original paint, 17 inch chrome 5 spokes, 265 all terrain tires. Future plans for mild 3-4" lift, 18" wheels & bigger tires, upgraded full audio system, custom dual exhaust, reupholster front seats and maybe a supercharged Lightning engine.

[@cyberrednec]

I got a 2002 lariat crew cab 5.4 auto, 94½k miles Wisconsin truck stored in winters, no rust. Love it to death!

[@jayrichards3672]

I love this truck cause it's a manual and it's a premium example of what once was I also love the stock exhaust note from that very reliable V-8 that are in most crown vics. I hope this owner is stoked about getting A golden hitch award and how unique he owns a manual truck. Very cool keep up the good work TFL.

[@robertmorris3892]

I would keep the stock exhaust. All the added noise isn't worth it in every day driving.

[@chappo4845]

Older V8s don’t have the power numbers but always seemed very drivable. Nice, honest truck.

[@mromatic17]

well it about evens out. i have a 94 f-150 with a 302 and it has about 220bhp but only weighs like 3900lbs new trucks have like 340ish but weigh 5500-6000lbs its crazy how heavy new 1500 trucks are!

[@Kopester]

I’d take less power and reliability than more power and piss poor reliability and costs

[@Larstappen]

@@mromatic171500s way to heavy now days. Obs f250s are like the same weight as a new f-150 😂 obviously depending on the motor lol

[@mromatic17]

@@Larstappen you can thank the EPA for that they make them expand the wheel base a tiny bit every year now 30 years later we have these 3 ton 1/2 ton monstronsities. plus all the stupid emmissions and crash saftey stuff that should be optional if you want it buy it.

[@Larstappen]

@@mromatic17 fr, you’ll only see me driving older fords and old Chevys. Newest car I’ve ever driven was an 05 but it was too new for me 🤣🤣

[@SprouseyTheHandyMan]

If you're the owner watching this. I've been around these triton motors my whole life. You got a nice truck. No serious rust. And runs great. You can hear how healthy the motor is when you started

[@romeo1550]

That engine was and is great. My first f150 was an 02 with the 4.6. Yes, underpowered but just worked. Nice looking truck!

[@kmoss9521]

New pistons helped mine get some pep

[@BrownBomber92181]

With a manual it feels more powerful. Also changing the heads to Pi heads is an easy power addition

[@moondar8660]

mustang supercharger will fix that

[@jacobshahan6912]

4.6's managed to skate by without any of the spark plug issues that the bigger motors did, they are proven work horses. This is a gem of a truck, I'd trade my 12 lariat for it in a heart beat!

[@Fl-ev8mr]

I have a 2003 4.6 manual long bed regular cab want to trade for your 2012 ?

[@cw8612]

Yeah that and the 4.2 was exempt from the spark plug issues as well.

[@ramblin327]

Same heads same problems

[@calebmelton5989]

They had issues too.

[@LostLoon]

I have a 1997 4.6v8 410,000 miles dad bought it brand new. Bought it from him at 230k original trans and engine. The absolute best trucks ever made.

[@Mr3X7R3M3]

Came here because im looking at a truck exactly the same as this. Needed a good review to watch first

[@mitchmcdonald2122]

I had a 2003 F150 in high school and college. Seeing that interior really took me back.

[@mayorhp]

Great trucks. My brothers and I have had these 10th gens in my family for years. Currently I daily drive an 02 Supercrew XLT 2WD, 4.6, auto. My daughters daily driver is an 01 Supercrew Lariat 4x4, auto, 5.4.

[@mikecarmean1676]

Beautiful truck! By the way that rod under the hood is not a just in case prop, but part of your tire jack system 👍

[@mhassouneh]

Imagine not knowing that and trying to figure out how to replace a flat tire!

[@forrest1948]

😂

[@AraceaeFanatics]

Exactly this. Neither of them are real auto enthusiasts.

[@brendas.1374]

I love my 2003 Ford SVT Lightning!!!⚡️⚡️⚡️ I bought it new in January 2003 at North Bay Ford in Santa Cruz, CA. It only has 35,774 miles, and its in mint condition. And it’s ALL original!!!

[@daveg9002]

Wow beautiful truck I love those lightnings by the way Im a local guy I live in watsonville love cars and trucks don't ever sell it

[@travislivengood2744]

I came really close to buying a fleet side twin to that truck. It was a rough trick so I walked away, but a 4.6 4x4 5 speed extended cab was a really cool combo.

[@aaroncostello8812]

I just bought a Bright Red-over-Silver '01 XLT SuperCab 4wd with the 4.6 and a manual. Got it from the son of the original owner, who obsessively serviced it only at the dealership. He wasn't too impressed with the power from the 4.6 so he chipped it, added a Gibson catback exhaust and a K&N intake. Looks killer and sounds like a Mustang GT. The owner only gave me a $100 discount off what he was asking because his phone was being blown up by people wanting to buy it, but I still couldn't hand the guy my money fast enough!!😂😂😂

[@rickydavis5541]

I have a 4.6 V8 with 175k miles on it on my 06 mercury grand marquis amazing engine never have any issues with it take me everywhere I need to go.

[@frankaxiak1959]

I have a 2003 F150 FX4 (4x4) with the 5.4L V8 and 4R70W automatic transmission. Still going strong with 209K miles.

[@mikemac6085]

Same here just hit 200,000 all original

[@joshland7826]

I have an '01 crew cab with an automatic trans and the two valve 5.4. 195,000 miles and it still starts right up. Worth every penny !!

[@bradleyhammer5615]

I got a 99 XLT 4.6. Love that truck ❤

[@mannyknoxville247]

Just bought my 2000 Ford f150 5.4 with 194,000 miles for $500. The dude didn’t want to change out the spark plugs, and was tired of gas prices. It’s in the shop right now getting spark plugs, new gas tank. I also had a 1999 Ford Expedition 5.4 before my truck that lasted over 15 years, had 256,000 and was still running before I sold it.

[@brentvance3958]

My first truck was a 89 Chevy Silverado regular cab step side with the 5.7 V-8 with a 5 speed Manual.

[@salgonzalez908]

I loved mine, it was the 5.4 triton with leather seats and step side bed. Was a great truck before they started making all pick ups over sized family pickups”

[@nothing9271]

why would you sell it then?

[@salgonzalez908]

Nothing the truck made it to around 400k+ miles the engine was still fine but the loss of power was happening. It was still my daily till I walked into a dealership and walked out with a brand new ram 1500 paying less then $200 a month. The truck since then was swapped from a engine/tranny from a mustang, & was sold since I had no interest in using it anymore. The 10 years I had the truck the only thing I changed was, battery, tension arm, belt, lower rad hose. And headlight bulbs.

[@nothing9271]

@@salgonzalez908 very nice I would like to have a pickup truck but I live in a third world country gas here is very very expensive

[@jakey20022]

Weren't those 5.4 liters 3 valve trucks known for engine issues ?!

[@colemauro1755]

@@jakey20022 The 3 valve 5.4’s weren’t used until 2004. The 10th gen F150’s used the 2 valve 5.4 which didn’t have the cam phaser issues in the 3 valve.

[@KR_Diecasts]

I love these 10th gen F150's. My parents used to have 2 Ford Expeditions (99 then a 01). This body style still looks great today!

[@markryl-kuchar2373]

My guess to get the brake light to stay out is to find the electrical connector on the parking brake lever under the dash and make sure it’s making proper contact

[@aftech7268]

I still have mine 2003 super crew 5.4 triton - heck its almost 20 years old still towing my travel trailer with it … it had traveled to 38 US states and Mexico

[@jplifts3008]

Just recently got a 2000 f150 with 226,000 miles on it, it drives nice, no issues so far. It’s the short bed, standard cab. Got it for $1500.

[@ManuelMartinez-pn9bt]

Nice, when I bought the truck it had 69,000 on her I have put about 10,000

[@Kuhlyedascope69]

hey man im looking at a 2002 4.6 standard with a stick shift and 4x4 for 1800$. 201k miles frames fine one owner should i jump on it.?

[@jplifts3008]

@@Kuhlyedascope69 seems alright, but I’m no expert by any means. Check it out real good

[@Kuhlyedascope69]

@@jplifts3008 ok thanks

[@JamesMJaime]

Dad had a crew cab 4.6 V8 with only 180k miles that we used to go to Mexico with. Super clean, not sure why he sold it since I wanted to buy it. Now we're having a hard time finding another clean truck for this year's trip.

[@tankthehedgehog105]

I Have A 99 F150 That’s A 4x4 Lariat 5.4 Triton! Also It Has The Same Bug Deflector As The One In The Video! Our Old 99 Used To Be A Farm Truck It Got Parked For 6 Years (Due To Mechanics Not Knowing What There Doing) Telling My Grandpa It’s Motor Might Be Ruined Since It’s Got A Blown Plug It Got Fixed, And It’s Running Great!

[@chieffan2525]

Oh yes! I loved my 2001! Glad you guys are shouting out the 10th gen

[@RickNethery]

Great Truck. I have had a 2006 F150 with the 4.6 V8 for about 8 years. Haven't had buch trouble out of it. Front wheel bearings, shocks and struts, and a battery. Very dependable.

[@markhavelka4924]

I owned an ‘01 single cab and an ‘03 Supercrew. Both were great trucks. Comfortable interiors, drove well, reliable. I never really cared for the styling interior or exterior. This one is definitely a unicorn. Congratulations!

[@lazyfingers4382]

still have my gen 10th as a daily driver, triton 5.4 xlt super cab... 3' lift.. its a tank

[@Zelaznogsiul-63]

I paid 5300 for my 2002 f 150 back in 2018 and it is in mint shape, I had to rebuild the engine it took me a while being that I am not wealthy and not a master mechanic, but it came back to life after we rebuild the engine my cousin and I and it is in mint shape no rust anywhere and I got ocd that helps with the truck being super clean. Great video.

[@mitch9521]

I love this generation so much.

[@trailblazinwithaspen158]

I have the same problem with my brake light too on my 09. I figured out all I have to do is to keep holding the break leaver at the same time and press the pedal up it will go up a little more and the light goes out. You could see if that works with yours I hope this helps at all...

[@beastzeus]

yup same on my 2001 expedition and my emergency brake has been completely removed as it rusted out but that censor still will go off if that lever pedal slips out of position. You have to nudge it up there like described.

[@BrownBomber92181]

The 10th Gen F-150 (97-03) was by far my favorite. Although when it first came out the styling was criticized as being too soft. These trucks were incredibly tough and durable. I had a 97 ext 2wd with a 5.4, my dad had the same setup with a 98 Ram & a 5.9, we both loaded 15 100 lb bags of quick crete in both trucks. Mine was level and his was sagging and overloaded. I also briefly had a 99 reg cab shortbed 2wd with a 4.6 & a manual. That was a fun truck to drive, quite peppy and would regularly get 22 mpgs when driving on the highway

[@kkamp0528]

Andre is contagious when he’s around trucks keep up the awesome videos tfl

[@NWI_Steel]

Agreed. You can just feel his passion for trucks. I love it.

[@GusMahn]

I remember getting my first look at the then new 10th generation at my local dealer, and thinking how ugly it was. I wound up with a 164,000 miles 2wd 4.6 '97 F150 in '99. Though a bit underpowered, it was the best truck I've ever owned. I sold it with 330,000 miles about 10 years later when it started to rust. I do like they way they look today.

[@leomtz58]

Nice still own my 1997 4x4 supercab. Bought out of show room 😊

[@MARedleg]

I had a 97 super cab xlt with the 4.6 and I owned it for 8 years and sold it to one of my brothers with about 170k miles. It still ran strong and had no serious issues with it. I miss that truck and it was a pleasure to own it.

[@Cliff117]

Last November I spotted a 2000 Ford F-160 7700 with 5.4 V8, 4x4 and trailer towing package with a matching canopy on Craigslist for 1860 USD. Since buying it I replaced the alternator, replaced an ejected spark plug, and put four nice new all season 12-ply tires on it. It runs very nice. Steering is straight and true. Mechanically everything has been kept up. I am very pleased. It’s a BEAST in the snow.

[@Cliff117]

F-150

[@matthewjensen9550]

The fact that this is considered a classic now is hard to comprehend

[@mike.l.910]

There are very very few of these trucks still running around my area. Usually they're completely rotted out, so this is nice to see. I tend to see a lot more GM and Dodge from those years still going, but again, all rotted out.

[@nolandavis9040]

I have a 2003 F-150 Heritage Edition with the 5.4 V8. It is the Black and Mocha two tone. I have put 155,000 miles on it and it’s in great shape for its age. I have also added a Ranch Hand grill guard about two years ago.

[@eddiebowens1919]

I have a 2000 150 supper crew just like it. good truck. The sparkplug holes are an easy fix.

[@fuadaldawodi1821]

There should be an electric switch under the emergency brake pedal. When you press the emergency brake, it will close the circuit, and releasing the brake will open the circuit. Check that switch it maybe loose or going out. Nice truck. Love to see older vehicles stock and in great shape.

[@Saintz]

Some WD40 might solve the problem

[@andreichiorean1030]

Nice one! Enjoy shifting those gears man! I own a 2003 XLT F150 going strong after 451000km, here in Canada rust is an issue but still can tow an go in and out the woods. Really impressed with those Ford trucks!

[@ramonguzman9470]

Lol my man Andre popped this man truck bed liner out, and then was like what ever when he couldn’t get it back in lol.

[@SkyHolder96]

I got my dad f150 fx4 off road and im rebuilding it on this channel but with headers and a tune. The only reason for the rebuild on the engine is my ex had the oil drain plug pulled out and the oil light never worked so i didnt know i drove back and forth to work almost 4 full months as well as driving 30+ minutes back an forth up so a swimming area 2 times some times 3 a month and it was still running on 3 cylinders when we pulled it best an most reliable truck i have ever seen you sit high enough to get job site work done for backing in and out of tight spots its a ford so you know it will atleast get you back home too lol

[@ericclayton8160]

I had that exact truck but an Auto with the 5.4 Triton 2V. Loved that truck and was built FORD Tough because I drove through a Tornado and Hail storm on I-80 in Wyoming. Golf ball size hail and the sunroof didn't break and only had 6 or 7 dings after everything said. The trailer I was hauling had to be reskinned.

[@RiffShark007]

Im 17 years old and my dad got me a 1998 lariat 5.4 in champagne as my first car. Im really greatful for it!

[@ricecakeFTW]

I'm actually in the market for one of these trucks. Looking for a 10th gen super crew 4x4 because I heard they are one of last best rock reliable rigs they made.

[@FrozenDonut13]

That's true. Just keep in mind that there still are problems such as the famous spark plug issue, specific electrical components, and always check for rot!!

[@evankraus9496]

I had this exact same truck - but blue and an automatic - from 16 to 21. This video has me SO nostalgic. I definitely miss the simplicity of that truck.

[@harleyrobertson6746]

That is a beautiful truck, my favourite generation of f150 and this particular one my favourite bodystyle... though I prefer the sport red model that's a bit like a budget svt lightning....the towing capacity of the manual trans was around 2000lbs

[@serghakeem3162]

Just got a 97 xlt with the 4.6 and its awesome ! Hoping to put 100,000 miles on it

[@felicelgato59]

I have a 2008 f150 4.6 extended cab stylized with 70 thousand miles with cold air intake and performance muffler, bilstein shocks all around, keeping it for life; if I only had a manual transmission it would be a dream

[@scottyellis3442]

Man that's one beautiful truck, I had a 2002 but unfortunately it was a automatic, I now have a 2008 F150 with the 4.2 V6 manual, luckily mine is after all the head gasket problems, wish it had the 4.6 but at least it a manual.

[@kmoss9521]

I’m currently rebuilding my Gen 10 4.6L, changed the pistons, built the 4R70w, rearend is getting a locker, 30 gallon fuel tank, onboard air compressor, it’s got all the fog lights, lifts kit, 6 lug.

[@joltinjack]

I had an oxford white 2001 F150 XLT extended cab with the 4.6 L. It had beautiful cloth seats; it looked like basket weave. When I purchased it new, I drove to a nearby tire dealer and put on some slightly wider tires than was put on by the factory. The only drawback to me was it was a little underpowered as it would downshift a lot going up medium grades. However, I really miss having it. It was really beautiful and was very reliable. I now have a 2010 Lariat that I bought in December 2009. Its metallic black with the 5.4 L. Recently, I put the Flowmaster VX muffler on it, and it really rumbles well. Ford makes a darned dependable truck.

[@jamesa9lpiopatton419]

I got two reg cans love em good on gas tow a lot of needed

[@allcarguy]

Great truck, just needs a bit of TLC. The brake light could be simply low on brake fluid. But I would make sure nothing is actually wrong with the brakes.

[@Wbfuhn]

I bought a 99 F150 XLT from a private owner. It's an automatic, which I prefer. I feel like I got lucky because it met my needs. I wasn't looking for luxury or fancy just a truck to do what I want. The bonus was the 5.4L. I had one of the spark plugs pop out, which stripped the threads on the block. The shop that fixed it did a great job. If I ever get body repair work on it I have plans to replace a bunch of parts. Some parts will have to be replaced because you can't buff out rust holes.

[@speedracerjeff]

The round nose Fords were built to last, I had 2 F150s and 3 Expeditions. Great trucks. The most reliable vehicle I’ve ever owned was my 2000 F150 Lariat 5.4 Triton. It never broke down on me, owned it several years then sold it at 226k miles with the original engine and trans (never rebuilt) still driving great. I should’ve kept that truck. The 2 valve Triton V8s were excellent engines.

[@bboymuggshott]

I feel that on the manuals, got my 08 Ram/6 speed/4x4 in October last year and Im loving it

[@steamftwin3249]

this was my first vehicle, a 2003 xlt extended cab flare side. my mom gave me it at 70k miles and I put almost 200k on it before a dealership stripped oil pan and said I needed a new one. when they worked on replacing oil pan the new mechanic dropped the motor and cracked it causing a terrible engine tick. they replaced the motor free of charge but it wasn't a rebuilt motor it was one from a abandoned truck on their lot and just wasn't the same

[@jakejonesy9275]

Way better than the ones they make today that thing will never fall apart

[@jakejonesy9275]

And they are super slow turds but they won’t break

[@regsparkes6507]

That paint fault on the roof seems to have been a Ford issue back then, either that or by coincidence my Buddy's F-150 or that era, had the very same issue with paint too. He did get some sort of 'deal' on repair from the dealer at the time. ( His truck was out of the standard warranty when the paint went funny ) Manny got a great truck here, with a few tweaks here and there he can have a truck for life. Complete underbody pressure wash, then a good undercoating would be tops on my list. Lucky guy, on both counts.

[@damilolaakanni]

V8+manual transmission in a half ton truck is very rare. For example, Toyota never offered a manual with the 4.7 in the tundra. If you wanted a manual you had to get the 3.4 V6, and it was discontinued around 2003.

[@freedomisntfree_44]

There are a good bit out there but no one wants to get rid of them! Only once in a blue moon will you find one for sale, I’ve had one this model but single cab in v8 and v6 both 5 speed thiugh. Have a taco with the 3.4 now but it’s 4 door and Toyota didn’t offer the 4 door Tacoma with a 5 speed

[@edwardlloyd1516]

I had the 4.2 V6 automatic which was very economical and drove like a car. I'd love another one. I really rate the 10th Gen above all others. Feels modern and comfortable to drive but isn't too big like the later models.

[@edwardlloyd1516]

Update: Finally after a 14 year absence, got myself another Gen 10. 4.2 V6 automatic 4x4 XL single cab long bed. Needs a lot of TLC but I'm so happy to have found another one.

[@1guyin10]

I have 2001 FX4 stepside. It's an automatic and the tow rating on it is 7900 lbs. I have pushed that limit hard several times hauling tractors. It didn't seem to mind. The only issues it has had is a rusted out EGR tube and ball joints. The truck has 180,000 on it. The 6.5 foot bed works well for hauling lumber. 12 footers ride well in it. Previously I put 250,000 on a 2000 2WD. It did spit out a spark plug at about 190K. Other than that it was very reliable. I traveled a lot when I first got it and it has seen 37 states. Dad took it over because it was easier to get into than his 4WD and he has run it up close to 300,000 miles. It still has the original engine and transmission. Fully depreciated and then some!!!

[@hironakirogawa1684]

The FX4 package never got introduced until 2002 on the 10th gens…

[@LukeEdward]

Everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Great truck. I think the brake light is a simple I/O switch under the dash connected to the pedal. Brake off - connects. Brake on - disconnects. Could/should be an adjustment. BUT since it’s so cheap, get yourself a replacement brake light switch. Standard Motor Products part# SLS82. If you’re going to be under there, spend

[@williamwhite9767]

I bought a new 2000 F150SupercabXLT5.4 4x4 and drove it 105k miles. The only issues were the right rear axle seal started leaking and the traction lock started chattering on turns. Installing a new seal that cost about $8 and changing the fluid fixed both. Sold it to a friend and he drove it to 170k before he sold it. Then in 2009 I bought my current 2002F150SupercabLariatFX45.4 with 69k miles and it now has 171k miles on it. Most reliable vehicles I've ever owned.

[@guillermorosales6245]

I have a 2001 super crew. With maintenance it's still running like a charm

[@aarongriffith8918]

I have a 1998 F150 supercab 4x4 with the 4.6L (base model work truck - bench seat, vinyl floor) that I was very fortunate to be gifted (new) by my grandfather as a graduation gift. It has been my daily driver for 23+ years and given me almost zero trouble. Ball joints and brakes/suspension is all I"ve really had to do to it until the fuel pump died last winter. (which I pulled the bed and changed myself). Ive changed my plugs 4x and never had one spit out but I've been careful (and paranoid). About 14 years ago I stripped the interior cab down to the bare sheet metal and put in factory XLT level power windows/locks/remote keylless anti theft/power mirrors from a wrecked F150 at the local salvage yard. Did the heater core (while I was in there with the dash out) and had to replace the aftermarket heater core 2 years ago. I have since been passed my late grandfathers 04 Sierra which is fully optioned with the 5.3. I really love both trucks and can't part with either right now and considering their condition (and paid for) won't consider a new truck for quite some time. The Sierra has more cab space for my kid's car seats, is newer with more options. Its the "goin ta town rig" with the family and the F150 is still my all around beater and drive to work vehicle. I'm an airline pilot so it just sits in an outside airport lot all week. I do all my own maintenance and repair and enjoy both trucks. The 97-03 didn't win as many hearts over with the interior and exterior design and styling but I still turn around and look at it every time I walk away and mechanically if they aren't rusted will easily run 300K+ with basic maintenance. You have an excellent truck, looks great and love the manual transmission and transfer case!

[@Voxeldust]

I'm actually going to check one out this weekend and remembered this video so I decided to take a look at it again

[@mrt2795]

Put your foot behind the park brake pedal and lift up before releasing the brake lever. If the park brake pedal is down just a hair, it can keep the brake light on.

[@BrownBomber92181]

A year later and i am still looking for one of these! How did this guy get so lucky. Ive come across 2, one neR Seattle and one in Des Moines, and both of them were sold when i was in contacts with the dealer, negotiating prices and getting it shipped!

[@enz6312]

I have a very similar truck..same model/color, super crew auto with the 5.4. Owned since new...i know the rear fenders are composite, i believe the actual bed is as well...

[@tonymayhew191]

I got ahold of one of these trucks for eight hundred dollars with a little damage but nothing to severe! I drove it for seven years and sold it for 1800:00 hundred dollars. It was a very good truck and I hauled a crap load of wood and way over the maximum amount your supposed to haul without any issues. I kept it maintenanced very well and learned alot about these 2 valve 5.4 Triton engines and drivetrain as well! First thing is that the 1999 model was about the last engines to have the P2 aluminum intake manifold on them as i now own a 2000 F-150 4x4 with a 4.6 Liter engine and it has a composite plastic manifold on it which is prone to have a vacuum leak at the ends. You will want to check out rear differential and make sure that jiffy lube didn't put the wrong oil in it or it will make a bunch of clunking noise. It takes 75-140 limited slip oil and transfer case takes FoMoCo automatic transmission fluid with mercon addive,The plastic piece on the shift linkage needs to be lined up with the line on transmission or the shift indicator won't line up with the gear you selected and create shifting issues! If you have an automatic transmission with tow/haul package you need to turn the over drive off and drive it in tow mode around town driving up to 45 to 50 miles an hour before using over drive or you will beat overdrive to death! And I ran supreme fuel especially in the summer and it makes a big difference in fuel mileage and low end torque. Keep coolant fresh every two years or it will spring a leak! Good strong battery so everything has sufficient power to run. And if it has more than two hundred thousand miles on it you will need to put new timing component's in it and it will probably last another two hundred thousand miles! And about once a month you will want to clear the computer and let it reset everything and it will run like new! 😉

[@StormLaker]

I have the same thing only a style-side and a 5.4 engine. I'm working on getting it back to this shape- living in the rust belt has taken it's toll on the vehicle, so bodywork is definitely in the distant future. It's definitely my favorite vehicle that i've ever owned, even over my dad's full size Chevy I owned for many years.

[@briizcustoms9543]

What bodywork you getting done?

[@StormLaker]

@@briizcustoms9543 It definitely needs new rocker panels so I can mount some new side steps on. They are pretty much gone on this truck. Other than that, a really minor wish list item is to find a bed in Texas or Arizona and have it mounted on and painted to match.

[@briizcustoms9543]

Got somewhere I can follow along ? Im wanting to revamp mine as well I stay in a rust belt myself.

[@StormLaker]

@@briizcustoms9543 not really, I"m fixing what I have the skills to fix, but when it comes to bodywork......that part is getting "farmed" out. I'm good for replacing parts, but if it's a complicated problem, I have a good local mechanic to help, and I work at a diesel engine repair shop as a parts guy, and my technician coworkers are also a good resource.

[@briizcustoms9543]

@@StormLaker They know about classic vehicles like a 76 p20?

[@PonderanceforPatriots-pl9wb]

I got lucky. In 2000, I was looking for a small Toyota truck, you know '91-ish, when I saw a 1998 F-150 base Super cab, with the 4.2 V-6, a retired guy in Florida just posted the ad. It had 115,000 miles on it, unheard of in Florida (it seems like everything there is over 200,000) It has the 5-speed, roll-down windows, ice cold ac, no rust, cracked dash (I got a spotless one at a pick and pull in Daytona Beach, 32 bucks) drove it to Rhode Island, fixed massive vacuum leaks, tuned it, replaced the ball joints, tie rod ends, full exhaust replacement on the passenger side,put a performance muffler on, new tires, and the thing runs great. Absolutely the best truck I've ever owned. Paid 2,200 dollars for it, and I plan to drive it back down to Florida for good in February of 2025!

[@ZenEndurance]

I had the same truck with manual transmission, but with the V6. And even the V6 sounded great!

[@bldontmatter5319]

The 4.2 V6 sounds very deep, I have one and personally enjoy it over the weird muffled sounds of the V8s (atleast the 5.4 triton sound)

[@ZenEndurance]

@@bldontmatter5319 you’re right! It was both deep and burbled happy like it was free breathing. People always asked how I liked my V8 and I had to tell thin it was a V6.

[@cameronsaint116]

Just bought a 2001 as my first truck, I love it

[@alfredomadrid601]

Amazing truck! Andrea and the TFL family doing great things.

[@youtubeblows]

I remember seeing this posted and was hoping it would eventually be featured! This is my dream truck also.

[@upshifter5316]

Awesome truck man! Best looking F150 in the modern era IMO. I hd a 98 flareside super cab and it was great, but automatic. I’ve been on the hunt for a 2001-04 f150 fireside with a manual for years. I can’t believe I missed this one because I live in Denver as well!! But I am happy another fella who appreciates them wound up with it. If you ever do decide to sell it… don’t forget this post lol! Kudos man.

[@mromatic17]

Nah the 9th generation obs was the best looking one!

[@michaelholden6096]

I have a 1999 4.6 f-150 xlt 4x4 standard. Best truck i've ever owned.