1981 Ford F350 problems
The Ford Super Duty (also known as the Ford F-Series Super Duty) is a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company since the 1999 model year. Slotted above the consumer-oriented Ford F-150, the Super Duty trucks are an expansion of the Ford F-Series range, from F-250 to the F-600. The F-250 through F-450 are offered as pickup trucks, while the F-350 through F-600 are offered as chassis cabs.
Rather than adapting the lighter-duty F-150 truck for heavier use, Super Duty trucks have been designed as a dedicated variant of the Ford F-Series. The heavier-duty chassis components allow for heavier payloads and towing capabilities. With a GVWR over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg), Super Duty pickups are Class 2 and 3 trucks, while chassis-cab trucks are offered in Classes 3, 4, 5, and 6. The model line also offers Ford Power Stroke V8 diesel engines as an option.
Ford also offers a medium-duty version of the F-Series (F-650 and F-750), which is sometimes branded as the Super Duty, but is another chassis variant. The Super Duty pickup truck also served as the basis for the Ford Excursion full-sized SUV.
The Super Duty trucks and chassis-cabs are assembled at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and at Ohio Assembly in Avon Lake, Ohio. Prior to 2016, medium-duty trucks were assembled in Mexico under the Blue Diamond Truck joint venture with Navistar International.
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Common 1981 Ford F350 problems
The Ford F-350, introduced in 1981, is a heavy-duty workhorse designed for tough jobs. However, it has been reported to have several common problems related to transmission, suspension, and exhaust gas temperature (EGT) sensors.
One of the most frequently experienced issues with the Ford F-350 is a slipping transmission, characterized by the engine revving without a corresponding increase in vehicle speed. This problem can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutch bands, or a faulty solenoid. Regular maintenance checks and fluid replacements can help prevent this issue.
Another common problem with the Ford F-350 is leaking transmission fluid. Common areas for leaks include the transmission pan gasket, seals, and cooler lines. Identifying and repairing the source of the leak promptly can prevent costly repairs down the line.
Hard shifting, or difficulty changing gears, is also a common problem with the Ford F-350. This problem may be caused by low transmission fluid, a malfunctioning solenoid, or worn transmission components. Adjusting fluid levels and replacing worn parts can often resolve this issue.
Transmission overheating is another problem that can occur in the Ford F-350, especially during heavy towing or driving in extreme conditions. Installing a transmission cooler and keeping proper fluid levels and quality can help prevent overheating and prolong the lifespan of the transmission.
In terms of suspension, the Ford F-350 has been reported to have issues with missing rear shock mounts. This problem can lead to the truck jumping sideways over tar strips and pogoing on rolling bumps. Replacing the spring and shackle bushings and adding shocks can help resolve this issue.
Finally, the Ford F-350 has been reported to have issues with EGT sensor failure. The PowerStroke engine has four sensors designed to communicate the engine's exhaust gas temperature, but the middle two sensors have the highest incidents of failure. If the extended warranty covers the vehicle, a dealer should repair the problem. If an EGT sensor failure occurs, a common sign would be the check engine light, "DTC" fault codes flashing, or a failed emissions test.
In conclusion, the Ford F-350 is a reliable and capable workhorse, but it is not without its common problems. Regular maintenance checks, fluid replacements, and prompt repairs can help prevent and resolve these issues, ensuring the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
What size engine is in a 1981 Ford f350?
Ford F-350 Regular Cab 5.8 V8 4x4 158hp, 1981.
How many miles can you put on a F-350?
Ford F-350 Super Duty leads the pack
The Ford F-350 Super Duty was built for the long haul. A new study found that the truck is more likely to remain in service for 250,000 miles than any other vehicle.
What year was the first Ford f350 made?
1999
Beginning production in January 1998 for the 1999 model year (after a 1998 hiatus), the Ford F-Series Super Duty consisted of the F-250 pickup truck, F-350 pickup truck and chassis cab, and introduced the F-450 and F-550 chassis-cabs (see below).
Why get an F-350 over an f250?
The F-250 delivers a maximum conventional towing capacity of 20,000 pounds and a maximum fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing capacity of 22,800 pounds. For even heavier-duty tasks, the F-350 can provide up to a 21,200-pound towing capacity and an impressive fifth-wheel/gooseneck towing maximum of 35,750 pounds.
What size engine is in a 1981 Ford F-350?
Ford F-350 Regular Cab 5.8 V8 4x4 158hp, 1981.
How many miles per gallon does a 1981 Ford F-350 get?
MMP Rating
| Engine Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Fuel System Type: | Carburetor |
| MPG: | Estimated 10-15 mpg |
| Dimensions and Brakes | |
| Brakes: | Front disc, rear drum |
What is a F-350 good for?
2024 Ford F-350 Super Duty Review
This is the F-Series Super Duty truck to get when you need serious towing and hauling capability. An F-350 crew cab with four-wheel drive, the dual rear-wheel setup and the high-output diesel engine is rated to tow up to 28,000 pounds with a conventional trailer hitch, for example.
What motor is in a 1981 Ford f100?
New 4.2L (255) V-8 engine.
1981 Ford F350 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F350 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1981 Ford F350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1981 Ford F350 complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1981 Ford F350.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FDJF37Z4BK
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHTS GO OFF AND ON WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-29
- Fire: 1
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: POSSIBLE ENGINE FAILURE RESULTED IN VEHICLE FIRE (OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT). *MJS
1981 Ford F350 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1981 Ford F350.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:CARRIER/RACK
- Summary: THE REINFORCEMENT FOR THE IN-BOX SPARE TIRE CARRIER MAY HAVE BEEN ATTACHED USING INCORRECT HEX HEAD BOLTS. IF THE CARRIER AND REINFORCEMENT ATTACHING BOLTS ARE INCORRECT, THE POTENTIAL EXISTS FOR THE TIRE SIDEWALL TO BE DAMAGED OR WEAKENED BY EXTENDED CONTACT WITH THE SHARP EDGES OF THE BOLT HEADS.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE BOLTS AND ANY DAMAGED SPARE TIRES AT NO COST TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: WHEELS:RIM
- Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES MAY NOT HAVE HAD THE DISC PORTION OF THE WHEEL WELDED TO THE RIM DURING MANUFACTURE. CONSEQUENTLY, THE WHEEL COULD BE SUBJECT TO SUDDEN SEPARATION OF THE RIM AND TIRE FROM THE WHEEL DISC.
- Remedy: SUSPECT WHEELS WILL BE INSPECTED AND REPLACED, IF NECESSARY, AT NO CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: CERTAIN VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN ASSEMBLED WITHOUT THE SPECIFIED FUEL TANK SHIELD WHICH PREVENTS DIRECT CONTACT BETWEEN THE FUEL TANK AND DRIVELINE COMPONENTS. DURING A 30 MPH FRONTAL BARRIER IMPACT TEST, AS SPECIFIED IN FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY", FUEL LEAKAGE MAY OCCUR.
- Remedy: VEHICLES WILL HAVE THE EXISTING SEPARATE SKID PLATE OR FUEL TANK SHIELD REMOVED (WHICHEVER WAS INSTALLED ON VEHICLE). A SPECIAL COMBINATION SKID PLATE/FUEL TANK SHIELD ASSEMBLY WILL BE INSTALLED IN ITS PLACE FREE OF CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:MOUNTING
- Summary: DURING A CHANGE IN ASSEMBLY PROCEDURES, CERTAIN OF THE MID-SHIP FUEL TANK STRAPS MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY INSTALLED OR MISLOCATED. AS A RESULT, THEY FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY". IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, EXCESSIVE FUEL SPILLAGE MAY OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, RELOCATE FUEL TANK STRAPS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1981 Ford F350 problems:
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