1990 Ford LN8000

Introduction:

The 1990 Ford LN8000 is a medium-duty truck available with two engine options: a 7.8L V8 diesel engine or a 7.5L V8 gasoline engine. Both engines are paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. The LN8000 is known for its durability, reliability, and towing capacity. However, it also has some common issues that owners should be aware of.

Engine

7.8L V8 Diesel

• Blown head gaskets: Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the head gaskets, which costs around $2,000-$3,000.
• Injector problems: Symptoms include hard starting, rough idling, and decreased power. The solution is to replace the injectors, which costs around $500-$1,000.
• Oil leaks: Symptoms include oil spots under the vehicle and low oil levels. The solution is to replace the leaking parts, which can cost anywhere from $100 to $500.

Recalls:

• None Found

7.5L V8 Gasoline

• Intake manifold gasket failure: Symptoms include coolant leaks, overheating, and reduced power. The solution is to replace the intake manifold gasket, which costs around $500-$1,000.
• Fuel pump failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting, stalling, and reduced power. The solution is to replace the fuel pump, which costs around $300-$500.
• Ignition coil failure: Symptoms include misfiring, engine knocking, and reduced power. The solution is to replace the ignition coil, which costs around $50-$100.

Recalls:

• None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch problems: Symptoms include slipping, chattering, and difficulty shifting gears. The solution is to replace the clutch, which costs around $500-$1,000.
• Transmission leaks: Symptoms include fluid leaks under the vehicle. The solution is to replace the leaking parts, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $500.
• Shifter problems: Symptoms include difficulty shifting gears or the shifter becoming loose. The solution is to replace the shifter or repair the linkage, which costs around $100-$300.

Recalls:

• None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure: Symptoms include sagging rear end, uneven tire wear, and difficulty steering. The solution is to replace the leaf springs, which costs around $500-$1,000.
• Shock absorber failure: Symptoms include a rough ride, reduced handling, and increased braking distances. The solution is to replace the shock absorbers, which costs around $200-$400.

Electrical

• Alternator failure: Symptoms include dim lights, flickering gauges, and difficulty starting. The solution is to replace the alternator, which costs around $300-$500.
• Starter problems: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine or the starter engaging but not turning the engine over. The solution is to replace the starter, which costs around $200-$400.
• Battery failure: Symptoms include difficulty starting the engine or the battery not holding a charge. The solution is to replace the battery, which costs around $100-$200.

Recalls:

• None Found

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include rust spots on the body and frame. The solution is to remove the rust and apply a protective coating, which can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 depending on the severity of the rust.

Interior

• Dashboard cracking: Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard. The solution is to replace the dashboard, which costs around $500-$1,000.
• HVAC problems: Symptoms include poor heating or cooling, or the HVAC system not working at all. The solution is to diagnose and repair the HVAC system, which can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,000.

Summary:

The 1990 Ford LN8000 is a reliable and durable truck, but it does have some common issues. The most serious issues include blown head gaskets, intake manifold gasket failure, and leaf spring failure. These issues can be expensive to repair, so it’s important to be aware of them before purchasing a used LN8000. However, many of the other issues are relatively minor and inexpensive to fix.