1990 Ford LTS9000

Introduction

The 1990 Ford LTS9000 is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with a variety of engine and transmission options. The available engines include:

• 7.5L V8 (360 cu. in.) - 240 hp, 410 lb-ft of torque
• 7.3L IDI Turbo Diesel V8 (444 cu. in.) - 215 hp, 400 lb-ft of torque
• 7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8 (444 cu. in.) - 230 hp, 425 lb-ft of torque

Transmission options include:

• 5-speed manual
• 4-speed automatic

The LTS9000 was well-liked for its powerful engines, rugged construction, and spacious interior. However, it was also known for having some common issues.

Engine

7.5L V8

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak, overheating
  • Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Lower intake manifold cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Vacuum leak, rough idle, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace lower intake manifold
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.3L IDI Turbo Diesel V8

• Glow plug failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, especially in cold weather
  • Solution: Replace glow plugs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injection pump failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace injection pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

• Turbocharger failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of boost, black smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak, overheating, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace head gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-speed Manual

• Clutch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping, chattering, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Replace clutch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission bearing failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Noise, vibration, difficulty shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: None Found

4-speed Automatic

• Solenoid failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, delayed shifts, no engagement
  • Solution: Replace solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, shuddering, overheating
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Ball joint failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning or going over bumps, loose steering
  • Solution: Replace ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ per side
  • Recalls: None Found
• Leaf spring breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, difficulty steering
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+ per axle
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery discharge
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies quickly, even when not in use
  • Solution: Inspect and replace faulty components in charging system (alternator, battery, wiring)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight switch failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working, intermittent operation
  • Solution: Replace headlight switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Body panels, frame, and other metal components rusting prematurely
  • Solution: Rust removal and prevention treatment
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks developing on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replacement dashboard or repair with epoxy
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Seat fabric tearing
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears in the seat fabric, especially on driver’s seat
  • Solution: Repair or replace seat cover
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1990 Ford LTS9000 is a capable and reliable workhorse. However, it is important to be aware of the potential issues that can arise, especially with the engine and transmission. The severity and cost of these issues can vary widely, but it is recommended to have any potential problems addressed by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible to avoid further damage.