Thinking about getting a second Raptor, this time a Gen 1 in red. Any advice on buying older V8 SVTs?

I’m considering adding a Gen 1 Raptor to my collection. Anything specific I should watch out for on these older V8 SVTs?

Watch out for high mileage 6.2L engines. There are some common valve spring issues around 170k miles. One of mine blew, and it’s not uncommon. Definitely check or replace them if you get a Gen 1.

Also, inspect the rocker panels carefully. The first gen body design allowed water to sit in the cab corners, which can rust out the rockers if they haven’t been treated.

The 4WD system also has an AWE vacuum issue. If the vacuum fails, it can cause grinding in the front actuators while driving. I haven’t had much trouble otherwise. My transmission has been solid, but shocks can be expensive to replace. Check if they’ve been replaced or be ready to handle that.

Definitely check the rocker panels. The design caused water to pool in the cab corners and rust them out.

Just to add to that, there’s also been paint adhesion issues with some of these F150s, including Raptors. I had to redo my rockers and ended up replacing my driver’s door due to rust near the handle. Bed was fine though.

How much did the rocker replacement cost you?

I had it done by a friend at their shop, and we kind of bartered for the work, so it’s a bit hard to say. We traded some sign work for the repair, but if I’d paid cash, it would’ve been around $3,500. Probably closer to $5,000 without the discount.

I had that same AWE issue on my Gen 2. It sounded like a rock grinder, and the dealer didn’t want to fix it at first.

Seems like you’ve got cash to spare… can I borrow $50? /s

Un /s

I could actually use $50 too.

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You’ll need one of these with a resonator delete: 2011-2014 Ford Raptor 6.2L V8 (14387) CORSA 3.0" Cat-Back Exhaust System with Twin 4.0" Tip Sport Sound Level

Check the history of the truck. Depending on where it’s been, the rockers could be rusting from the inside out. The engine and transmission can be pretty solid, though. The engine could go over 300k miles, but valve spring issues are something to watch for.

I just had to replace my lead frame at 118k miles.

Oops, wrong thread. I was gonna say 8 inches… :joy:

Gorgeous truck! :fire::fire::fire::+1:

Just dropping this here, have a good one! https://www.reddit.com/r/Fordraptorsales/s/dIgtsu8Zy0

Thanks for all the advice! This community is awesome.

Definitely check the rear cab corners—they rust from the inside out. Also, check if the fuel pump fuse fix has been done. These trucks are fun but need a little TLC.

Engines tend to blow up before 200k miles.