1990 Ford CL9000

Introduction:

The 1990 Ford CL9000 was a popular heavy-duty pickup truck known for its rugged construction and spacious interior. It was available with multiple engine and transmission options:

• 7.3L V8 Diesel: 185 horsepower, 440 ft-lb torque
• 7.5L V8 Gasoline: 230 horsepower, 365 ft-lb torque
• 4-speed automatic transmission
• 5-speed manual transmission

Owners appreciate the CL9000’s towing capacity, reliability, and comfortable ride. However, it has been known to have some common issues.

Engine

7.3L V8 Diesel

• Head Gasket Failure: Blown head gasket causes coolant and oil leaks, overheating, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace head gasket and bolts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injection Pump Failure: Faulty injection pump leads to hard starting, poor fuel economy, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Replace injection pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Turbocharger Failure: Worn or damaged turbocharger causes reduced power, excessive smoke, and turbo whine.
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.5L V8 Gasoline

• Intake Manifold Gasket Leak: Leaking intake manifold gasket causes coolant and oil leaks, rough idle, and poor performance.
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Spark Plug Failure: Fouled or worn spark plugs cause misfiring, reduced power, and poor fuel economy.
  • Solution: Replace spark plugs and wires.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Water Pump Failure: Leaking water pump leads to overheating, coolant loss, and engine damage.
  • Solution: Replace water pump.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure: Worn or damaged torque converter causes slipping, shuddering, and overheating.
  • Solution: Replace torque converter.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Slipping: Worn clutch packs or bands cause slipping, difficulty shifting, and loss of power.
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $3,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve Body Failure: Faulty valve body causes erratic shifting, delayed engagement, and transmission overheating.
  • Solution: Replace valve body.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

5-speed Manual

• Clutch Failure: Worn or damaged clutch disc or pressure plate causes slipping, chatter, and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace clutch.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Synchro Failure: Worn or damaged synchronizers cause grinding and difficulty shifting gears.
  • Solution: Replace synchros.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission Bearing Failure: Worn or damaged bearings cause noise, vibration, and difficulty shifting.
  • Solution: Replace bearings.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure: Broken or cracked leaf springs cause sagging, poor handling, and reduced ride quality.
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock Absorber Failure: Worn or damaged shock absorbers cause poor ride quality, decreased stability, and reduced braking performance.
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball Joint Failure: Worn or damaged ball joints cause clunking, vibration, and decreased steering precision.
  • Solution: Replace ball joints.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per side
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Failure: Weak or dead battery causes starting problems, electrical malfunctions, and premature component failure.
  • Solution: Replace battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure: Faulty alternator causes charging problems, electrical malfunctions, and battery drain.
  • Solution: Replace alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter Failure: Damaged or worn starter motor causes difficulty starting the engine.
  • Solution: Replace starter motor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust and Corrosion: Exposed metal surfaces, such as the bed, frame, and fenders, are prone to rust and corrosion in humid environments.
  • Solution: Rust prevention, such as undercoating or waxing.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Failure: Faulty switches, motors, or wiring cause power windows to malfunction.
  • Solution: Repair or replace window components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per window
  • Recalls: None Found
• Radio Failure: Malfunctioning radio, CD player, or speakers can cause audio issues.
  • Solution: Repair or replace radio components.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC System Failure: Leaky evaporator core, faulty blower motor, or clogged condenser can cause poor heating, cooling, or airflow.
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair specific HVAC component.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1990 Ford CL9000 has a range of potential issues, with the severity and cost of repairs varying depending on the specific issue and the condition of the vehicle. Engine problems, such as head gasket failures and injection pump issues, can be costly to address. Electrical issues are generally less severe and less expensive to fix. Overall, owners should be aware of the potential issues and budget accordingly for maintenance and repairs.