Truck purchase- good deal?

I could just be being cautious but think I would have the alignment checked or at least keep a close eye on the steer tires for a while

 

So is mine.

 

It doesn't matter that the ECU isn't original, you don't care about the data from years ago anyways. You want to know if there are any recent issues. Get the print out.

Also, who did the motor swap? Do you have the paperwork with the VIN on it? Lots of old trucks are being sold with a "new" or overhauled motor but when you ask for proof, they either "lost" it or it's a vague receipt with not VIN. If someone really spent 10-20k on a swap or overhaul, you can bet that they saved the receipt for records and tax purposes. Lots of trucks I've been looking at claim to be overhauled but they somehow misplaced the paperwork Don't take their word for it.

 

Also test drive it at 80k if you can, some issues and vibrations won't come up until you're fully loaded going up hill.

 

Is that so?....hmmm...good to know

Note to self (find a nice stretch in VA without bears hiding in bushes)...

WAIT....u meant 80mph or 80K lbs?

 

I meant 80,000lb or whatever the max for the truck is. Some issues don't surface until you're under a full load. My truck was great until I got above 70,000, then there was a small vibration while accelerating or cruising uphill. Turned out to be the carrier bearing, now it's fine.

What I'm trying to say is don't let your first load be the first time you tested your truck out fully loaded. That is not the time to find problems.