1996 Ford LNT9000

Introduction

The 1996 Ford LNT9000 is a heavy-duty commercial vehicle with a GVWR of up to 33,000 lbs. It is powered by a Caterpillar 3406E engine that produces 475 horsepower and 1650 lb-ft of torque. The transmission is an Eaton Fuller RT11610B 10-speed manual. The LNT9000 is praised for its durability, payload capacity, and powerful engine. However, it is known to have some common issues.

Engine

• Caterpillar 3406E
  • Cylinder head gasket failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant leaks, overheating, white smoke from exhaust, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace cylinder head gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
  • Injector failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Black smoke from exhaust, rough idle, loss of power
    • Solution: Replace injectors
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per injector
  • Turbocharger failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive smoke from exhaust
    • Solution: Replace turbocharger
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Oil pump failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Low oil pressure, knocking sounds from engine
    • Solution: Replace oil pump
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Transmission

• Eaton Fuller RT11610B
  • Clutch failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Slipping clutch, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Replace clutch
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Transmission oil leak
    • Description/Symptoms: Leaking transmission fluid, difficulty shifting gears
    • Solution: Repair or replace seals, gaskets, or lines
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Synchronizer failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noises when shifting gears
    • Solution: Replace synchronizers
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per synchronizer

Suspension

• Front leaf spring failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging front end, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Rear air bag failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, poor ride quality
  • Solution: Replace air bags
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 per bag

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery not charging, flickering lights
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Starter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Wiring harness issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical problems, such as malfunctioning lights, gauges, or sensors
  • Solution: Repair or replace wiring harness
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion on body panels, frame, or components
  • Solution: Rust repair or replacement of affected parts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• HVAC system failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Malfunctioning air conditioning, heating, or ventilation
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+
• Seat belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Seat belt not retracting or locking properly
  • Solution: Replace seat belt retractor
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 1996 Ford LNT9000 is a reliable and capable commercial vehicle, but it is not without its share of issues. Some of the most common problems are related to the engine, transmission, and electrical system. While these issues can be costly to repair, they are generally not severe and can be easily addressed by a qualified mechanic.