1997 Ford LT9513

Introduction:

The 1997 Ford LT9513 is a medium-duty commercial truck with various engine and transmission options. It boasts powerful engines, a robust chassis, and a comfortable cabin. While it excels in hauling and towing capacities, it has some reported issues across different components.

Engine

• 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
  • Turbocharger boost leak:
    • Description/Symptoms: Reduced engine power, black smoke from exhaust while under boost
    • Solution: Replace or tighten turbocharger boost hose
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Injector failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting, rough idle, loss of power, increased fuel consumption
    • Solution: Replace faulty injector(s)
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $600 - $1200+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6.8L Triton V10 Gasoline
  • Intake manifold gasket failure:
    • Description/Symptoms: Oil or coolant leaking from intake manifold area, rough idle, decreased engine performance
    • Solution: Replace intake manifold gaskets
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-speed Manual
  • Clutch slipping:
    • Description/Symptoms: Difficulty engaging gears, loss of power under load, burning smell
    • Solution: Replace clutch disc and pressure plate
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $1200
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6-speed TorqShift Automatic
  • Torque converter shudder:
    • Description/Symptoms: Vibration while shifting gears, especially when cold
    • Solution: Replace or rebuild torque converter
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $2000
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging or broken leaf springs, reduced ride height, abnormal tire wear
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shock absorber failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Bouncy or rough ride, poor handling
  • Solution: Replace shock absorbers
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow cranking, battery not charging properly
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery goes dead quickly, even when not in use
  • Solution: Test and isolate parasitic drain, repair or replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on body panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Corrosion and rust spots on fenders, hood, or other body panels
  • Solution: Sand, repair, and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard cracking:
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks on the dashboard, especially around the windshield defroster vents
  • Solution: Replace or repair dashboard
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000
  • Recalls: None Found
• HVAC system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Blowing warm or cold air, poor airflow, or no air conditioning
  • Solution: Diagnose and repair or replace faulty HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 1997 Ford LT9513 is a capable truck with some potential issues in various components. Engine and transmission problems can be costly to fix, especially injector failure and torque converter shudder. Suspension and electrical issues are less severe and affordable to repair. The exterior and interior issues affect aesthetics and comfort but can also be remedied. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues when considering this vehicle.