5th May 2005, 06:12
I too agree that the 1985 F250 is one tough truck. I am in the process of restoring mine. I rebuilt the engine, new suspension, exhaust, wheel rotors and brakes all around. I love it, but was wondering why my steering felt so bad. I have replaced the steering box twice and also the column, but it doesn't seem to help. My next approach will be to try the new super runner steering system. Hope it helps.
RLH, Iowa City, Iowa.
26th Apr 2006, 15:18
The big problem is the pittman arm on these trucks. You need to check in to that and you might find out what the problem is.
11th Oct 2009, 12:20
My first truck was a 1985 Ford F-250 4X4 with a 6.9 diesel engine. I purchased it in Elbow Lake, Minnesota. I love the boxy styling and the power that the 6.9 made. I purchased it with 430,000 miles on it and sold it to my boss with a little over 500,000 miles. The truck had been completely gone through, considering it was in great condition when I bought it plus I invested nearly $12,000 in improvements. Great Truck. Does anyone notice any similarities from the 09' model?
27th Feb 2005, 07:26
My dad gave me his 85 F250 6.9L XL 4x2 w/72K miles three years ago. He lives in CA and I live in VA so I got to know it on a 2200 mile trip. I was so impressed with how it ran... 70-75 MPH for 16 hours a day without a single problem. I've put on about 30K since I got it and have had some problems, mostly normal age related maintenance. Engine wise... glow plugs have been my biggest issue. I put a bypass switch so I should not have any more problems with them. The only nagging problem I have and I don't know if it is just the design, is the steering seems to be a little squirrelly. It just feels loose. I've replace the steering box, steering column and some of the suspension components. It is better, but not quite right. It is a really strong truck and I have gotten a lot of great use out it. I have made a decision to purchase a 2005 F250 6.0L Lariat 4x4. I'm ready for power with luxury. I just hope it provides as reliable service as my old "85".