2017 Ford F53
The 2017 Ford F53 is a popular chassis used for Class A motorhomes. It comes equipped with a 6.8L Triton V10 engine producing 320 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, paired with a TorqShift 6-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate the F53’s robust build and relatively simple design, making it a dependable platform for motorhome conversions. However, common complaints include relatively poor fuel economy, handling issues requiring aftermarket suspension upgrades, and some specific component failures. There were no other engine options, and no other transmission options available for the 2017 Ford F53 chassis.
Engine
6.8L Triton V10
- Spark Plug Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulties starting the engine, misfires, rough idling, and a noticeable decrease in power. This is often accompanied by a check engine light. Sometimes the spark plugs can break off inside the head.
- Solution: Replacement of spark plugs, sometimes requiring specialized tools and techniques due to the potential for breakage. Some owners have had success using anti-seize compound on the spark plug threads during installation of new plugs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+ depending on the severity and the need for specialized repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
- Exhaust Manifold Leaks
- Description/Symptoms: A noticeable ticking or hissing sound, particularly when the engine is cold, indicating an exhaust leak. This can also lead to reduced fuel economy and a burning smell.
- Solution: Replacement of the exhaust manifold and gasket(s). Broken exhaust manifold bolts are common and can require specialized extraction tools.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $1200+
- Recalls: None Found
- Cooling Fan Clutch Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Overheating, particularly when climbing hills or under heavy load. The engine temperature gauge will rise rapidly, and the cooling fan may not engage as effectively.
- Solution: Replacement of the cooling fan clutch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $700
- Recalls: None Found
Transmission
TorqShift 6-Speed Automatic Transmission
- Harsh Shifting/Torque Converter Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Hard or erratic shifting, particularly between certain gears. Some owners report issues with the torque converter locking and unlocking improperly, leading to shuddering or stalling.
- Solution: In some cases, a software update to the transmission control module (TCM) can resolve the issue. In other cases, replacement of the torque converter or valve body is necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 (Software Update) - $3000+ (Torque Converter/Valve Body Replacement)
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Poor Handling/Excessive Body Roll
- Description/Symptoms: Unstable handling, particularly in windy conditions or when encountering uneven road surfaces. Excessive body roll during turns and a general feeling of instability.
- Solution: Many owners opt for aftermarket suspension upgrades, including heavier-duty sway bars, upgraded shocks (Bilstein or Koni are popular choices), and air springs.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $3000+ depending on the upgrades chosen.
- Recalls: None Found
- Leaf Spring Sag/Failure
- Description/Symptoms: Rear end sag, reduced ride height, and a rough ride. In extreme cases, the leaf springs can crack or break.
- Solution: Replacement of the leaf springs, often with heavier-duty springs designed for motorhome applications. Adding air bags to the suspension can also help with the sag.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $2000+
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Chassis Battery Drain
- Description/Symptoms: The chassis battery discharges quickly, particularly when the vehicle is parked for extended periods. This can prevent the engine from starting.
- Solution: Identifying and addressing parasitic drains. This may involve checking for faulty relays, aftermarket accessories that are not properly wired, or a failing alternator.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+ depending on the complexity of the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
- Fuse Box/Wiring Harness Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Intermittent electrical problems, such as lights flickering, accessories not working, or error messages appearing on the dashboard. Corrosion or loose connections in the fuse box or wiring harness can be the cause.
- Solution: Inspecting and cleaning the fuse box and wiring harness, repairing or replacing damaged wires, and ensuring proper connections.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $800+
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- No Issues Found
Interior
- Dashboard Cracking
- Description/Symptoms: Cracking of the dashboard surface, particularly in areas exposed to direct sunlight.
- Solution: Dashboard cover or replacement.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $1000+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2017 Ford F53 chassis, while generally reliable, exhibits several common issues. Engine problems such as spark plug issues, exhaust manifold leaks, and cooling fan clutch failure can lead to performance degradation and potential overheating. The TorqShift transmission can suffer from harsh shifting and torque converter problems. Suspension issues often require aftermarket upgrades to improve handling and ride quality. Electrical problems, particularly related to battery drain and wiring harness integrity, can also occur. While some issues, like spark plugs and suspension upgrades, are relatively inexpensive, others, such as exhaust manifold repair and transmission work, can be costly. Overall, potential buyers should be aware of these issues and factor in the potential cost of repairs and upgrades when considering a 2017 Ford F53-based motorhome.