1997 Ford FT900

Introduction

The 1997 Ford FT900 is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its powerful engine and rugged capabilities. It comes with a 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine as standard, producing 275 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic. While praised for its performance and durability, the FT900 has also faced some issues.

Engine

7.3L Power Stroke Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, excessive black smoke, loud whistling noise
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
• Injector Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idling, black smoke
  • Solution: Replace injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: N/A

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Grinding Noises
  • Description/Symptoms: Grinding noise when shifting gears, difficulty engaging gears
  • Solution: Replace worn gears or synchronizers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,500+

4-Speed Automatic

• Slipping Gears
  • Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping out of gears, delayed shifting
  • Solution: Rebuild or replace transmission
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+

Suspension

• Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaf springs, poor ride quality
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Shock Absorber Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling, fluid leaks
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, difficulty starting, battery warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery draining quickly, no power to accessories
  • Solution: Find and eliminate parasitic drain (e.g., faulty electronics)
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $300+

Exterior

• Rust on Body Panels
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust appearing on fenders, doors, or bed
  • Solution: Repair and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks forming on the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
• Seat Upholstery Ripping
  • Description/Symptoms: Rips or tears in seat upholstery
  • Solution: Replace seat upholstery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+

Summary

The 1997 Ford FT900 is a capable truck, but it is not without its issues. Engine problems, such as turbocharger and injector failures, can be costly to repair. Transmission issues, including grinding noises and slipping gears, can also be significant concerns. Other problems, such as rust on body panels and dashboard cracking, are less severe but can affect the overall appearance and value of the vehicle.