1997 Ford F350 XLT

Rare, highly original, and showing just 67,701 miles, this 1997 Ford F350 XLT 4X4 Crew Cab is an exceptional example of Ford's legendary OBS-era heavy-duty pickups. Finished in the desirable Calypso Green Metallic with Oxford White lower accents, this F350 combines its rare Crew Cab, four-wheel-drive configuration with a big-block V8, an impressive list of factory options, and a thoughtful selection of period-appropriate accessories.

Purchased new from Harvest Ford of Klamath Falls, Oregon, this F350 remained in the area with two owners from the same family before our recent acquisition. It spent much of its life pulling a camper to various points of interest and outdoor recreation destinations, and it is clear this truck enjoyed a charmed life of indoor storage and consistent care.

The Calypso Green Metallic paint remains remarkably well preserved, with most, if not all, of the original finish still in place. There are a few minor bumps and bruises consistent with age and use, but the overall presentation is excellent, with deep gloss and shine. The Opal Grey custom cloth interior is exceptionally tidy, while the frame and underside benefit from the truck's Pacific Northwest history and remain in excellent condition.

Under the hood is Ford's 7.5-liter, 460 CID V8 paired with an automatic transmission and four-wheel drive. Mechanically, this F350 performs exceptionally well. The big-block starts easily and pulls strongly through every gear, while the transmission shifts smoothly. The four-wheel-drive system engages and disengages properly, and the low range provides the kind of capability expected from a truck of this stature. The brakes stop straight and true, and the power windows function properly. The factory AM/FM cassette stereo plays and sounds good, although the cassette function was not tested. The air conditioning blows cold.

Factory equipment is extensive and includes power steering and brakes, power windows and locks, a two-speed transfer case, locking front hubs, six-passenger seating with a three-way front split bench, auxiliary power point, and the factory stereo. The Preferred Equipment Package adds a multifunction tilt steering wheel with cruise control, air conditioning, interior enhancement lighting, forged aluminum wheels, a chrome appearance package, 4.10 limited-slip rear axle, camper package, off-road skid plate and handling package, tachometer, sliding rear window, bright low-mount swing-away mirrors, manual locking hubs, full-size spare, and rear privacy glass.

This F350 has also been thoughtfully accessorized with a custom steel front bumper, Warn winch, high-flow exhaust, Hella fog lights, custom grille inserts, diamond-plate bed rails, and a quick-removable, adjustable E16 fifth-wheel hitch. The combination makes this truck particularly well suited to an enthusiast who wants a classic OBS Ford that can still be put to work.

The appeal here is the complete package. Crew Cab, non-dually 4X4 F350s from this era are uncommon, and finding one with just 67,701 miles, its desirable color combination, big-block V8, extensive factory equipment, clean history, and remarkably original condition is increasingly difficult. The original window sticker and books accompany the truck, along with a clean CARFAX.

For the OBS Ford enthusiast, this 1997 F350 checks nearly every box: low mileage, rare configuration, excellent original condition, substantial factory equipment, useful accessories, and a compelling two-owner family history. It is a truck that looks as good parked in the garage as it does headed toward the next outdoor adventure.