Looking into getting a 1997 F-250 with 220k miles to replace my GMC 1500 with 248k miles. Hearing that the power won't be much different. I've seen a few with little power and a few with a ton of power. What should I look for? How can I get the most power out of it? What kind of mpg could be expected?

 

before you do anything, see how it pulls a heavy load....

 

Start off by taking your time and not just jumping in. It took me 4 months to find mine. Original owner with 76k miles. Well taken care of with receipts to prove.

A good amount of power can be had by just having a 3" down pipe and strait exhaust.

If you want fast and good mileage then you should look into something else. Expect about 14-16 around town and maybe 18-19 pure highway. It depends on your right foot.

What are your plans for using the truck? If hauling a horse trailer than at least a trans cooler and an EGT gauge. If towing a lot then a beefed up trans. and an intercooler.