What's up with truck prices-RANT !!!!!

A harsh winter has effected the value of used cars and trucks.
Insurance companies total loss vehicles based on dollar figures. Far too much money is related to crap like restraint systems. So vehicles that could be driven for years to come can't be street legal again per the regulations.
There may be a hidden blessing in your not getting the 04 you looked at. I'll assume you would buy only liability and not collision insurance, It doesn't take a serious accident to put the truck in the total loss category.
Even with collision coverage, the age and millage will make it a lose lose for the consumer. They get us any way we turn. Good luck