1998 Ford LT8511

Introduction

The 1998 Ford LT8511 is a heavy-duty truck with a 7.3L V8 diesel engine and a 5-speed automatic transmission. It produces 235 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque. The LT8511 is known for its powerful engine and rugged construction, but it has also been plagued by a number of issues.

Engine

7.3L V8 Diesel

• Injector failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fuel leaks, engine misfires, loss of power
  • Solution: Replace injectors
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,500+
  • Recalls: 00E08
• Turbocharger failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, black smoke from exhaust
  • Solution: Replace turbocharger
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $1,500+
  • Recalls: 00E12

Transmission

5-Speed Automatic

• Torque converter shudder:
  • Description/Symptoms: Vibration during acceleration
  • Solution: Replace torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: 00E03
• Shift solenoids failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, transmission slipping
  • Solution: Replace shift solenoids
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: 00E04

Suspension

• Leaf spring failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Sagging suspension, rough ride
  • Solution: Replace leaf springs
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Shocks failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Poor ride quality, nosedive during braking
  • Solution: Replace shocks
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Steering rack leak:
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leak from steering rack, loss of steering assist
  • Solution: Replace steering rack
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Electrical components not working, battery not charging
  • Solution: Replace alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Starter failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine cranks but does not start
  • Solution: Replace starter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery drain:
  • Description/Symptoms: Battery dies after sitting for a period of time
  • Solution: Test and replace faulty components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust on body panels:
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on body panels, especially around wheel wells
  • Solution: Sand and repaint affected areas
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Headlight failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Headlights not working properly
  • Solution: Replace headlight bulbs or assembly
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• HVAC system failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working properly
  • Solution: Repair or replace HVAC components
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2,000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power window failure:
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working properly
  • Solution: Replace window motor or switch
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Ford LT8511 is a capable truck with a powerful engine and rugged construction, but it is also plagued by a number of issues. The most severe issues include injector failure, turbocharger failure, torque converter shudder, and shift solenoid failure. These issues can be expensive to fix and can lead to significant downtime. Owners should be aware of these issues before purchasing an LT8511 and should factor in the potential cost of repairs when making their decision.