1997 Ford LT8513

Introduction to the 1997 Ford LT8513

The 1997 Ford LT8513 is a heavy-duty pickup truck offered with a range of engine and transmission options. The standard engine is a 7.3L Power Stroke diesel V8 producing 235 horsepower and 500 lb-ft of torque. Other engine options include a 6.8L Triton V10 gasoline engine and a 7.3L Power Stroke turbocharged V8 diesel engine. Transmission options include a 5-speed manual, a 4-speed automatic, and a 6-speed automatic.

Owners praise the LT8513’s powerful engines, capable towing capacity, and rugged construction. However, the vehicle has also been criticized for its poor fuel economy, cramped interior, and limited available features.

Engine

7.3L Power Stroke Diesel V8

• Cylinder Head Warping
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant loss, overheating, rough idle, white smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace cylinder heads
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $2,000 - $4,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Injection Pump Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, engine stalling, difficulty starting
  • Solution: Replace injection pump
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10 Gasoline

• No Issues Found

7.3L Power Stroke Turbocharged V8 Diesel

• Turbocharger Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Reduced power, excessive smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,200 - $2,000
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

5-Speed Manual

• Shifting Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noises
  • Solution: Replace or repair shifter mechanism
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found

4-Speed Automatic

• Torque Converter Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping gears, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500
  • Recalls: None Found

6-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Shifting problems, flashing check engine light
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension Coil Spring Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging front end, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace coil springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600
  • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension Leaf Spring Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging rear end, uneven tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Drain
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies prematurely
  • Solution: Locate and repair electrical draw
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Low electrical output, battery warning light
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust Prone
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, frame
  • Solution: Preventative rust treatment and repairs as needed
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on dashboard surface
  • Solution: Replace dashboard or repair cracks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000
  • Recalls: None Found
• Plastic Trim Breakage
  • Description/Symptoms: Broken or cracked plastic trim pieces
  • Solution: Replace trim pieces
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1997 Ford LT8513 has a mixed reputation among owners, with some praising its capabilities while others find it lacking in comfort and features. Issues with the vehicle range from minor cosmetic problems to more serious mechanical failures. The most common issues include cylinder head warping on the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel engine, injection pump failure, turbocharger failure, transmission problems, suspension coil spring breakage, battery drain, alternator failure, rust, dashboard cracking, and plastic trim breakage. While some repairs can be relatively inexpensive, others can be quite costly. Potential buyers should be aware of these potential issues before purchasing a used LT8513.