It has '72 door panels which don't fit on a '71 without minor mods. Given that and the mirror location, I'l challenge him on the year. Act suspicious and insinuate that the truck is worth less because he's lying or doesn't know about the year (although I don't know why he would...) The VIN will tell you for sure what year it is. Check the oil and transmission fluid, give the underside a good look, pull up the rug and look at the floor if you can. Use the magnet test on the rocker panels and cab corners for sure. DEFINITELY ask him to start it and at least take you on an test drive if not let you drive it. Since he "doesn't know" about the transfer case, etc. he may not really know what he has. He may be bluffing about the "many offers" he's gotten. Why hasn't he sold it yet? Do yourself a favor and lowball him, then tell him to call you if he changes his mind. I've paid too much for cars and houses and will definitely take this approach next time, no matter how much I want it. If he won't budge on the price, then you're not interested. There will always be another one, and it's not worth overpaying even if you really want it, especially if your wife/significant other gives you a hard time about it. Remember, HE called YOU so you have the upper hand (just like with women
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My 2cents...