The various pre-purchase used truck inspections

You seem to be on the right track. Buying a truck is like an art, and unfortunately that art is usually learned through experience. Like now a days, if I were to buy a truck I would know exactly what I’m looking at and looking for, for the most part that is.

Your best bet is to have a seasoned owner op go out with you, one that has the experience and the mechanical histories.

One thing I must add is, look over the electrical system REAL good YOURSELF. Look for wire routing, make sure wires aren’t rubbing against the frame and etc. a lot of wire loom over the wires is a good sign the electrical circuits have been catered to. Because ask yourself this, what good is my drive line and engine if it can’t get the signals???!!

Bring a creeper and get to rolling underneath there, look for leaks, bad wiring, drive line condition etc. bring some gloves and use your hand to push up/over on the drive line to see if there’s ANY play. 6 inched is out of service I believe. Check the drive line at each differential where the yoke connects the drive shaft, check for leaks at the seal.

Good luck

 

Oa on all fluids.

 

Engine, trans, rear ends.

 

Oil analysis.