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2001 Ford F-350 Super Duty

The 2001 Ford F-350 Super Duty is a heavy-duty pickup truck known for its towing and hauling capabilities. Available engine options included the 5.4L Triton V8, the 6.8L Triton V10, and the 7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8. The 7.3L Power Stroke produced 275 horsepower and 525 lb-ft of torque, making it a popular choice for those needing serious power. Transmission choices consisted of a 5-speed manual and a 4-speed automatic. Owners often praise the truck’s ruggedness and workhorse capabilities but sometimes criticize its ride quality and fuel economy, especially with the larger engines.

Engine

7.3L Power Stroke Turbo Diesel V8

  • Injector Driver Module (IDM) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The IDM controls the fuel injectors. Failure can result in a no-start condition, rough running, misfires, or stalling.
    • Solution: Replace the IDM.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Cam Position Sensor (CPS) Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: The CPS provides information to the engine computer about the camshaft’s position. Failure leads to stalling, rough running, or a no-start condition.
    • Solution: Replace the CPS.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Exhaust Back Pressure Sensor (EBP) Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Sensor clogging or failure causes erratic turbo behavior, poor fuel economy, and black smoke.
    • Solution: Clean or replace the EBP sensor and tube.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $200+
    • Recalls: None Found

5.4L Triton V8

  • Spark Plug Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Spark plugs can break or strip the threads in the cylinder head during removal, especially on high mileage engines.
    • Solution: Careful removal techniques are required. Sometimes thread repair inserts are needed.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ (depending on the severity and repairs needed)
    • Recalls: None Found

6.8L Triton V10

  • Exhaust Manifold Leaks
    • Description/Symptoms: Exhaust manifold bolts can break, leading to exhaust leaks. This creates a ticking or hissing sound, especially when the engine is cold.
    • Solution: Replace the exhaust manifold and broken studs/bolts.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4R100 4-Speed Automatic

  • Torque Converter Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Shuddering during acceleration, especially at lower speeds. Transmission slipping or failing to lock up the torque converter.
    • Solution: Replace the torque converter and flush the transmission cooler lines.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $800 - $2000+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Harsh or Delayed Shifting
    • Description/Symptoms: Rough shifts between gears, especially 1st to 2nd or 2nd to 3rd. Delays when shifting into drive or reverse.
    • Solution: Perform a transmission service, replace the valve body, or rebuild the transmission.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 (service) - $3000+ (rebuild)
    • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

  • Leaf Spring Sagging/Cracking
    • Description/Symptoms: Rear end sagging, especially when loaded. Visible cracks in the leaf springs.
    • Solution: Replace the leaf springs.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1500+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Ball Joint Wear
    • Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise from the front suspension, especially when going over bumps or turning. Steering wander.
    • Solution: Replace the worn ball joints.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $800+
    • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

  • Glow Plug Relay Failure (Diesel)
    • Description/Symptoms: Hard starting in cold weather, excessive white smoke upon startup.
    • Solution: Replace the glow plug relay.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300+
    • Recalls: None Found
  • Alternator Failure
    • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, slow cranking, battery not charging.
    • Solution: Replace the alternator.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200-$500+
    • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

  • Rust Issues
    • Description/Symptoms: Rust is common, especially in areas with road salt, appearing on the rocker panels, cab corners, and wheel wells.
    • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $2000+ (depending on severity)
    • Recalls: None Found

Interior

  • Cracked Dashboard
    • Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard, especially in warmer climates.
    • Solution: Dashboard replacement or cover.
    • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+
    • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 2001 Ford F-350 Super Duty, while a capable truck, has its share of common issues. The 7.3L Power Stroke diesel is generally robust but can suffer from IDM and CPS failures. The gassers can have other minor issues that require more specialized repairs. Transmission problems, particularly with the 4R100, and suspension wear are also common. Rust is a major concern in certain climates. Repair costs can range from relatively minor for sensor replacements to significant for transmission rebuilds or rust repair. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and have the vehicle thoroughly inspected before purchasing.

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