Need input on possible purchase

[flybear]

Hi all, new here. I'm looking at my first ever Ford and my first Diesel. Truck in mind is a 95 F-350 crew cab xlt 4wd long bed. 200k miles. 4 spd. auto.
Price is 10k. I already noticed the rear spring shackle mount brackets that are riveted to the frame are cracked/ rusted through. Local dealer tells me this is not uncommon on these trucks, is that true? I can get new brackets for 56$ each and have the ability to put them on myself, so that's not a sale stopper.
How good are the auto.'s in these trucks? Should I be worried about 200K on the trans?
I've been told if the engine was taken care of, 200K is no problem for them.True?
What kind of mileage should I expect with this truck when empty? How about when towing 7 or 8 thous. lbs.?
Is there anything else I should know / look for with this truck?
Thank you in advance to anyone who reads and or replies to this post!! I will appreciate any and all feedback.

[96ScreaminStroker]

I have a 96 for sale with 146,000 on it with a 5 speed

[Banshee34]

10k seems a little steep!

[ndurbin]

10k does sound alil steep for 200k. But if it's been taken care of nothing really to fear. I'm not real familiar with the autos so i cain't help much there or with the mileage.

[flybear]

96screaminstroker- I actually prefer a manual trans. , but can't seem to find any with a bench seat up front. I guess not too many people bought them that way. I need seating for six.