I hate these kinds of threads when they are asked on a forum where I know something about the subject. So, feel free to delete this or ignore it. But, that being said, I'm looking at a 1992 4x4 automatic. I have had a 2001 CTD since new, and researched it two years before buying, so I am no stranger to 2nd gens, but don't have a clue about 1st gens.

Anything to check if I test drive it?

What will I need to do to the auto trans to handle 300-350 hp?

Time is of the essence, which is why I'm asking instead of searching.

 

First off, if it's stock it's gonna feel like a dog to you. '92 was the most pathetic year in stock tune. On your test drive you just want to see if it's making any wierd noises, making bad colors of smoke, and if the trans shifts into overdrive.

Look out for rust above the windshield. Run, don't walk away from a truck that is even bubbled up there, you are looking at the tip of the iceberg. Floor rust and rotten rocker panels are not uncommon and not really a big deal. Check the steering box mount and the frame rail for cracks.

The trans should get a TC and a shift kit/VB installed. These trucks don't have a lockup converter, and the stocker stalls at around 1800 RPM, so you lose a lot of power in the TC.

 

I have to TOTALLY disagree with that last part! My 92's rockers are shot, I knew that when I bought it, But I didn't realize how extensive the rust was until I had to replace the drivers side seat belt retractor mechanism. Whilst trying to remove a 13 year old bolt from the floorpan that anchors the whole thing I realized the extensiveness of the rust when, what I thought was the bolt starting to twist loose, was in actuality approximately a 2" circle of rusted floor pan giving way! Now I just gotta figure out how to attach a seatbelt anchor to a 2" hole!

 

Simple.

Just tie some wire through the hole and around the truck-frame.

Cram some rags in the hole to keep out cold air.

Behind the seat, nobody will notice, good as new with little investment in time or money.

 

Bearkiller only someone who has a ford in his signature would suggest wire

 

And I thought 'I' was hillbillied!

Sorry man, I just don't wanna crash my truck into something and end up taking a bite out of the steering wheel, dash, windshield, etc! I'd really prefer the seatbelt to do it's intended job. Keeping my Fat Butt (reasonably) planted in the seat!

 

I, or my wife rather, decided we weren't buying another truck. Thanks for the info though.