1990 Ford CF7000

Introduction:

The 1990 Ford CF7000 is a medium-duty commercial truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The base engine is a 7.8L V8 with 190 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. Other engine options include an 8.3L V8 with 210 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, and an 11.1L inline-6 with 240 horsepower and 620 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 5-speed automatic.

Owners generally appreciate the CF7000’s durability, power, and towing capacity. However, they commonly encounter several issues with the vehicle.

Engine

• 7.8L V8
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant and oil leaks, overheating, rough idle
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• 8.3L V8
  • Head Gasket Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Engine coolant and oil leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace head gasket
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• 11.1L Inline-6
  • Turbocharger Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Synchronizer Wear:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
    • Solution: Replace synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
• 6-Speed Manual
  • Shift Linkage Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, gears popping out of place
    • Solution: Repair or replace shift linkage
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ -4-Speed Automatic
  • Torque Converter Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, no forward/reverse gears
    • Solution: Replace torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $1,800+
  • 5-Speed Automatic
    • Transmission Control Module Failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Incorrect gear selection, transmission not shifting smoothly
    • Solution: Replace transmission control module
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, rough ride, handling issues
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Shock Absorber Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor ride quality, excessive body roll
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Electrical

• Battery Drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, even after replacing battery
  • Solution: Locate and fix electrical fault
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
• Alternator Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dim headlights, weak battery, battery light illuminates
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
• Starter Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine won’t crank or cranks slowly
  • Solution: Replace starter motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+

Exterior

• Rust and Corrosion:
  • Description/Symptoms: Body panels, frame, and undercarriage develop rust and corrosion
  • Solution: Rust treatment and prevention measures
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Depends on severity of rust

Interior

• Steering Column Switch Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Turn signals, headlights, or other switches don’t work
  • Solution: Replace steering column switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
• HVAC Blower Motor Failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: No or weak airflow from vents
  • Solution: Replace blower motor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+

Summary

The 1990 Ford CF7000 is a generally reliable and capable workhorse. However, it is not without its issues. The engine, transmission, suspension, and electrical systems can all experience problems, which can be both severe and costly to repair. Overall, the CF7000’s issues are not uncommon for medium-duty trucks of its age and class, but it’s important to be aware of them before making a purchase decision.