1983 Ford F350 problems

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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.

1983 Ford F350

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Common 1983 Ford F350 problems

Based on the complaints from owners of the Ford F350 1983, several common problems have been identified:

  1. Fuel Pump and Tank Rust: Owners have reported issues with fuel pumps in both tanks failing and internal rust in the tanks causing fuel delivery problems. Regular maintenance checks and potential replacement of fuel pumps are recommended to prevent issues related to fuel delivery.
  2. Firewall Cracks and Rust: The firewall around the clutch master cylinder is prone to cracking and tearing, while the radiator support and rear spring hangers are susceptible to rust if neglected. Checking for cracks and rust in these areas is crucial to maintain the structural integrity of the vehicle.
  3. Timing Chain Set: Recommendations include getting an aftermarket or pre-1970 timing chain set for improved power and economy. Upgrading the timing chain set can enhance the performance of the vehicle and is advised for owners looking to optimize their truck's capabilities.
  4. Steering Box and Frame: Loose steering can be attributed to issues with the steering box not being bolted tightly to the frame or potential frame cracks. Ensuring the steering box is securely fastened and inspecting the frame for any signs of damage is essential for safe driving and handling of the vehicle.
  5. Transmission Woes: Common transmission problems in the Ford F350 include slipping transmission, fluid leaks, hard shifting, and overheating. Regular maintenance checks, fluid replacements, and addressing leaks promptly are crucial to prevent costly transmission repairs and maintain optimal transmission performance.
  6. EGR Cooler Clogs: Carbon deposits on the EGR cooler can lead to clogs, resulting in issues like rough idle, poor performance, and engine overheating. Promptly addressing EGR cooler clogs and potential replacements can prevent further damage to the engine and ensure smooth operation.
  7. Injection Pump Failure: Injection pump failure can lead to various issues such as stalling, loss of power, and rough idle. Metal contamination from the injection pump can damage the fuel system components, necessitating the replacement of the entire fuel system in severe cases.
  8. Turbocharger Failures: Turbocharger failures in the 6.7L diesel engine can result in loss of power, unusual engine sounds, excessive smoking, and oil loss. Addressing turbocharger issues promptly is crucial to prevent further damage to the engine and ensure optimal performance.

By addressing these common problems proactively and performing regular maintenance checks, owners of the Ford F350 1983 can mitigate potential issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.

1983 Ford F350 engine

What engine is in a 1983 Ford f350?

For those two models, the most important introduction this year was the 6.9-liter V-8 diesel.

How many miles can you put on a f350?

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 engine is in a 1982 Ford f350?

MMP Rating

Engine Specifications
Engine Options:4.9L I6, 5.8L V8, 6.6L V8, 7.5L V8
Displacement Range:4.9L - 7.5L
Horsepower Range:120-210 HP
Torque:220-315 lb-ft

What engine is in a 1985 Ford f350?

4dr Crew Cab Pickup 4x48-cyl. 351cid/210hp 4bbl OHV H.O.

What engine is in a 1983 Ford f350?

For those two models, the most important introduction this year was the 6.9-liter V-8 diesel.

What engine is in a 1982 Ford f350?

MMP Rating

Engine Specifications
Engine Options:4.9L I6, 5.8L V8, 6.6L V8, 7.5L V8
Displacement Range:4.9L - 7.5L
Horsepower Range:120-210 HP
Torque:220-315 lb-ft

What is a f350 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 engine is in a 1985 Ford f350?

4dr Crew Cab Pickup 4x48-cyl. 351cid/210hp 4bbl OHV H.O.

1983 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:

  • Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1983 Ford F350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1983 Ford F350 complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1983 Ford F350.

2000-08-30

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2000-08-19
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: CONSUMER HAS 4 COOPER DISCOVERER ,TIRE SIZE 125033X16.5. WHILE DRIVING ON HIGHWAY TRUCK BEGAN TO SHAKE REAL HARD. THEN FOUND OUT THAT TIRE HAD A BUBBLE ON IT ABOUT 2 INCHES AND 12-16" LONG. *AK

1983 Ford F350 recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 7 recalls for different components of the 1983 Ford F350.

1984-05-22
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: WATER SEPARATOR CANISTER MAY BE PUNCTURED IN A COLLISION. CRASH TESTS IN A 30 MPH FRONTAL COLLISION REVEALED FUEL LEAKAGE EXCEEDING THE MAXIMUM PERMITTED BY FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY".
  • Remedy: A PROTECTIVE SHIELD FOR THE CANISTER WILL BE INSTALLED WITHOUT CHARGE.
1983-05-02
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
  • Summary: IN A COLLISION, BOLTS MAY DAMAGE OR PIERCE A FUEL LINE, CAUSING FUEL SPILLAGE. AFFECTED VEHICLES MAY NOT BE CAPABLE OF MEETING THE MINIMUM FUEL LEAKAGE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY".
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE EXISTING 2.18 INCH BOLTS IN THE LEFT FRONT FENDER APRON WITH ONE INCH LONG BOLTS AT NO CHARGE.
1983-03-07
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
  • Summary: THE PARKING GEAR MAY NOT ENGAGE, EVEN THOUGH THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER IS PLACED IN THE "PARK" POSITION. THIS OCCURS IF THE LINKAGE INSIDE THE TRANSMISSION THAT ACTUATES THE PARK GEAR WAS IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED. A PIN THAT RETAINS COMPONENTS ON A LINKAGE (ACTUATING) ROD COULD BREAK AND THE LINKAGE MAY NOT ENGAGE THE PARKING GEAR.
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE PARKING PAWL ACTUATING ROD ASSEMBLY.
1982-12-13
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
  • Summary: FUEL SYSTEM ON THE SUSPECT VEHICLES MAY NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY". THESE VEHICLES WERE MANUFACTURED WITHOUT PROJECTILE FUEL TANK SHIELDS.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND INSTALL A PROTECTIVE FUEL TANK SHIELD WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
1982-12-13
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
  • Summary: SOME OF THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE A DIODE IN THE ELECTRICAL FUEL PUMP CIRCUIT THAT MAY SHORT DURING ENGINE STARTING DUE TO INADEQUATE CAPACITY TO WITHSTAND CURRENT DRAW. A SHORT CIRCUIT WOULD RESULT IN NORMAL ENGINE STARTING, BUT THE PUMP WILL NOT CONTINUE TO SUPPLY THE ENGINE WITH FUEL.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE DEFECTIVE ELEMENT IN THE ELECTRICAL FUEL PUMP CIRCUIT WITH A NEW RELAY FEED WIRING ASSEMBLY WHICH CONTAINS A LARGER CAPACITY DIODE, FREE OF CHARGE.
1982-10-26
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HOOD:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
  • Summary: THE SPRINGS THAT ASSIST IN RAISING THE HOOD MAY DETACH FROM THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE HOOD CAN BE IN ANY POSITION WHEN THIS OCCURS.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE THE HOOD LIFT ASSIST SPRING ASSEMBLIES WITH REVISED PARTS.
1982-10-26
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
  • Summary: ON CERTAIN VEHICLES, THE LOCK WEDGES USED TO SECURE THE AXLE BEARING NUTS TO THE AXLE HOUSING MAY FALL OUT OF POSITION, ALLOWING THE NUT TO LOOSEN. THE NUT ON THE LEFT SIDE MAY FALL OFF, ALLOWING MOVEMENT OF THE AXLE SHAFT.
  • Remedy: THE DEALER WILL REPLACE DEFECTIVE LOCK WEDGES WITH AN IMPROVED VERSION. WHEEL BEARINGS WILL BE INSPECTED AND ADJUSTED OR REPLACED, IF NECESSARY.
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1983 Ford F350 problems:

1985 F350 - Common issues? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
1985 F350 - Common issues? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1134943-1985-f350-common-issues.html

Jan 30, 2012 ... 1980 - 1986 Bullnose F100, F150 & Larger F-Series Trucks - 1985 F350 - Common issues? - Just bought a 1985 F350 with a 460 4spd manual 4x4.

1983 5.0 CFI cutting out??? | Box Tech | Crownvic.net
1983 5.0 CFI cutting out??? | Box Tech | Crownvic.net
https://crownvic.net/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=2934346

"Dixie Special" 1983 Ford ... "Queen Anne" 1997 Ford F350 CCLB 7.3 'Stroke ... Plugged cats will 99% of the time give problem before you can start ...

The worse problem(s) on a 300 inline 6 - Ford Truck Enthusiasts ...
The worse problem(s) on a 300 inline 6 - Ford Truck Enthusiasts ...
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1072748-the-worse-problem-s-on-a-300-inline-6-a.html

Jun 6, 2011 ... Ford Inline Six, 200, 250, 4.9L / 300 - The worse problem(s) on a 300 inline 6 - In your opinion, what is the worse problems 300 inline 6s ...

6.9L IDI diesel , what are the pros and cons of this engine | The ...
6.9L IDI diesel , what are the pros and cons of this engine | The ...
https://www.thedieselstop.com/threads/6-9l-idi-diesel-what-are-the-pros-and-cons-of-this-engine.60789/

Aug 13, 2005 ... Hello everyone. I have a 1986 (built in August of 86) F350 crew cab dually. The truck was given to me by my brother.

Odometer not working | Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum
Odometer not working | Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum
https://www.powerstroke.org/threads/odometer-not-working.794506/

Jul 22, 2014 ... ... F350 6 litre, Power stroke diesel truck, only works on occassion. ... Been told by others its a common problem on the year and make of Ford I own?

Other years of Ford F350

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F350 1984
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1983 Ford F350 photo