1992 Ford LTLS9000

Introduction:

The 1992 Ford LTLS9000 is a heavy-duty truck offered with a wide range of engine and transmission options. The most popular engine choice is the 11.1-liter Cummins VT903 V8 diesel, producing 290 horsepower and 1,050 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 9-speed manual and a 5-speed automatic. Owners praise the LTLS9000 for its ruggedness, reliability, and towing capabilities. However, there are some known issues to be aware of.

Engine

11.1-liter Cummins VT903 V8 Diesel

• Cylinder Head Gasket Failure: Symptoms include overheating, coolant leaks, and white smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the cylinder head gasket. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
• Fuel Injector Failure: Symptoms include poor engine performance, black smoke from the exhaust, and increased fuel consumption. The solution is to replace the faulty fuel injector(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
• Turbocharger Failure: Symptoms include loss of power, increased exhaust temperature, and blue smoke from the exhaust. The solution is to replace the turbocharger. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Transmission

9-Speed Manual

• Bearing Failure: Symptoms include whining or grinding noises during operation. The solution is to replace the faulty bearing(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,200+

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure: Symptoms include slipping gears, shuddering, and overheating. The solution is to replace the torque converter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Breakage: Symptoms include sagging or uneven ride height. The solution is to replace the broken leaf spring(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Shock Absorber Failure: Symptoms include poor ride quality, excessive bouncing, and reduced handling. The solution is to replace the faulty shock absorber(s). Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure: Symptoms include dimming lights, low battery voltage, and engine stalling. The solution is to replace the alternator. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
• Starter Failure: Symptoms include no cranking or difficulty starting the engine. The solution is to replace the starter. Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+

Exterior

• Rust: Symptoms include visible rust spots on the body panels and frame. The solution is to repair the rusted areas and apply rust protection. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracked: Symptoms include cracks in the dashboard material. The solution is to replace the cracked dashboard. Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Door Panel Sagging: Symptoms include loose or sagging door panels. The solution is to tighten or replace the door panel clips. Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+

Summary:

The 1992 Ford LTLS9000 is a generally reliable truck, but it does have some known issues. The most severe and costly issues are cylinder head gasket failure and turbocharger failure within the engine. Suspension issues and rust concerns are also common. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs.