1998 Ford L9501

1998 Ford L9501

The 1998 Ford L9501 is a heavy-duty pickup truck that was available with a range of powertrain and trim options. The standard engine was a 7.3L Power Stroke diesel with 210 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque. A 6.8L V10 gasoline engine with 215 horsepower and 425 lb-ft of torque was optional. Transmission options included a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic.

Owners of the 1998 Ford L9501 generally praise its powerful engines and towing capacity. However, the vehicle has also been known to experience a number of issues.

Engine

• 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel
  • Engine Overheating
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine runs hot and may overheat, causing smoke or steam to be emitted from the engine compartment.
    • Solution: Replace the thermostat or water pump.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 13V268000
  • Fuel Injector Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine misfires or runs rough, and may also produce black smoke.
    • Solution: Replace the failed fuel injector.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: NHTSA Campaign Number 12V047000
  • Turbocharger Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The boost pressure drops, causing the engine to lose power.
    • Solution: Replace the turbocharger.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 6.8L V10 Gasoline
  • Intake Manifold Gasket Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leaks from the intake manifold, causing overheating or engine damage.
    • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ignition Coil Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The engine misfires or runs rough, and may also produce a knocking sound.
    • Solution: Replace the failed ignition coil.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

• 5-Speed Manual
  • Clutch Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The clutch slips or chatters, making it difficult to shift gears.
    • Solution: Replace the clutch.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found
• 4-Speed Automatic
  • Transmission Slipping
    • Description/Symptoms: The transmission slips out of gear while driving.
    • Solution: Rebuild or replace the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $3,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Front Suspension
  • Ball Joint Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The front end of the vehicle shakes or wobbles while driving, and there may be a clunking noise.
    • Solution: Replace the failed ball joint.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
    • Recalls: None Found
• Rear Suspension
  • Leaf Spring Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The rear end of the vehicle sags or leans to one side.
    • Solution: Replace the failed leaf spring.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Battery Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The battery dies prematurely, leaving the vehicle stranded.
  • Solution: Replace the battery.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The electrical system fails, causing the lights to dim or the battery to drain.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior No Issues Found

Interior

• HVAC System Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: The heating or air conditioning system stops working or blows weak air.
  • Solution: Repair or replace the faulty component in the HVAC system.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Ford L9501 is a capable heavy-duty truck, but it is not without its issues. The engine and transmission are prone to a number of problems, and the suspension and electrical systems can also experience failures. While the cost of repairs can vary depending on the severity of the issue, some of the more common problems can be expensive to fix.