Tips on Buying Cars: F-250 diesel, Age vs. Mileage, mileage vehicles, oil leaks

Question
Dear Webfoot,

I am considering a F-250 diesel to tow a 5th wheel. A local dealer has a 1997 F-250 with 80k miles at $8995.
The big question is whether a 10 year old truck is still dependable even with low miles.  What are your thoughts about age vs. mileage? For comparison, an 05 or 06 with similar mileage is in the mid $20ks. I would like to get 5 to 7 years more of relatively trouble-free service out of it.

A second question is whether the bench seat can be replaced with buckets and a center console at a reasonable cost. Ever heard of anyone doing this? The buckets would be a lot more comfortable on long road trips.

In buying a 5 year old or older diesel truck, what parts would you insist on replacing; i.e. brakes, fluids, timing belt, hoses, drive belts, etc?

Many thanks for your help in advance, Webfoot.  I really appreciate it!

Regards,
Bob  

Answer
With age, the biggest problems surface with parts the deteriorate over time such as seals, gaskets, belts, hoses, anything made of rubber etc.  Because of this, many older, low mileage vehicles will have oil leaks that higher mileage vehicles may not have.  The truck needs to be carefully checked by a qualified tech.  If an older vehicle has been properly maintained and driven on a regular bases, it may be a great deal.  The mechanic can tell you what needs replacing.

Converting a truck like that from bench to bucket is very easy.  You'll need the seats, console and seat belts from a like/kind truck.  Everything should bolt right in.

Good luck!