1974 Ford Ltd problems

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The Ford LTD (pronounced ell-TEE-dee) is a range of automobiles manufactured by Ford for the 1965 to 1986 model years. Introduced as the highest trim level of the full-size Ford model range (then the Ford Galaxie 500), the LTD moved the Ford range upmarket, offering options and features previously reserved for Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. For much of its production life, the LTD competed against the Chevrolet Caprice (atop the Chevrolet Impala); the Mercury Marquis served as its divisional counterpart from 1967 until 1986.

For its first three generations, the LTD served as the largest Ford vehicle in North America. Initially debuting as a two-door and four-door hardtop sedans, the LTD range at various times would also include two-door and four-door pillared sedans, a two-door convertible, and a five-door station wagon (in woodgrain trim, as the LTD Country Squire). In South America, Ford manufactured the 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 into the 1980s using the Ford LTD nameplate.

From 1977 to 1979, the full-size LTD was joined by the intermediate-segment Ford LTD II (replacing the Ford Torino/Gran Torino range). For 1979, the LTD was downsized; while remaining a full-size car, it became externally smaller than the LTD II. For 1983, the LTD became a mid-size car as it replaced the Ford Granada, with the previous full-size car renamed the Ford LTD Crown Victoria (renamed Ford Crown Victoria for 1992).

For 1986, the mid-size LTD was replaced by the Ford Taurus as Ford expanded its use of front-wheel drive vehicles, with both lines sold for 1986.

1974 Ford Ltd

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Common 1974 Ford Ltd problems

Based on the information provided in the sources, here are some common problems reported by owners of the Ford LTD 1974:

  • Motor Mounts Replacement: One owner mentioned that the only problem they recalled with their Ford LTD was that the motor mounts needed replacing. Motor mount issues can lead to excessive engine movement, causing vibrations and affecting the overall performance of the vehicle.
  • Poor Fuel Economy: The 1975 Ford LTD was described as bloated and fat, with the wheezing 400 engine delivering maybe 10 MPG. Low fuel efficiency is a common complaint for older, larger vehicles with powerful engines.
  • Mechanical Wear: As vehicles age, components like hoses, EGR valves, air pumps, and other parts can deteriorate, leading to issues with the engine's performance and emissions control systems. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to address these wear-related problems.
  • Interior Fan Noise: Some Ford products of that era were reported to have run-all-the-time interior fans that became clattery. Interior fan noise can be a nuisance and may indicate issues with the fan motor or the ventilation system.
  • General Maintenance Challenges: The complexity under the hood of cars from that era, with various hoses, feedback systems, and emission control components, could make maintenance and repairs more challenging. Finding replacement parts for these older vehicles might also be more difficult compared to newer models.
  • Aging Components: With the vehicle's age, issues related to aging components like seals, gaskets, and electrical systems may arise, leading to leaks, electrical problems, or other malfunctions. Regular inspections and proactive maintenance can help mitigate these issues.

These reported problems highlight some of the common challenges faced by owners of the Ford LTD 1974 model. Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and attention to potential rust issues can help keep these classic cars running smoothly.

1974 Ford Ltd engine

What engine was in the 1974 Ford LTD?

The base engine was the 302 cid V8. The next largest engine was Ford's 351 CID V8, the most common choice. Still larger was Ford's 400 CID V8. Topping the range was the 429 cid V8, which was replaced by the 460 CID V8 for 1974.

How much is a Ford LTD worth?

A: The average price of a Ford LTD is $16,910.

What does LTD stand for Ford?

Limited

Back in 1965, Ford opted to name one particular high-level trim “Limited”, which shortened nicely to “LTD” on the 1965 Ford Galaxie. By the late 1970s, the Galaxie moniker was gone, but the “LTD” trim level lived on. Shown here is the 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 LTD four-door hardtop. ( photo credit: Ford)

What motor is in a Ford LTD?

Ford LTD
Ford
Engine5.8L (351 cid) V8 (1973-1978) 6.6L (400 cid) V8 (1973-1978) 7.0L (429 cid) V8 (1973) 7.5L (460 cid) V8 (1974-1978)
Power143-202 hp
SimilarMercury Marquis

What engine was in the 1974 Ford LTD?

The base engine was the 302 cid V8. The next largest engine was Ford's 351 CID V8, the most common choice. Still larger was Ford's 400 CID V8. Topping the range was the 429 cid V8, which was replaced by the 460 CID V8 for 1974.

What does LTD mean on a Ford?

Back in 1965, Ford opted to name one particular high-level trim “Limited”, which shortened nicely to “LTD” on the 1965 Ford Galaxie. By the late 1970s, the Galaxie moniker was gone, but the “LTD” trim level lived on. Shown here is the 1965 Ford Galaxie 500 LTD four-door hardtop. ( photo credit: Ford)

What engine is in a 1976 Ford LTD?

1976 Ford LTD Landau 4-Door Hardtop 7.5L V8 Engine (photo by Stein Olsen) | Ford ltd, Car ford, Old classic cars.

How long is a 1973 Ford LTD?

(base), 5.8L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATIC

DimensionMetricImperial
Ford LTD Height1380 mm4 ft 6 in
Ford LTD Width1900 mm6 ft 3 in
Ford LTD Length5180 mm16 ft 12 in
Ford LTD Ground clearance unladen165 mm6 in

1974 Ford Ltd car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Ltd problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Power train problems
  • Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1974 Ford Ltd vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1974 Ford Ltd complaints

The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1974 Ford Ltd.

2010-03-06

POWER TRAIN PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1980-06-01
  • Components: POWER TRAIN
  • Summary: MY 1974 FORD LTD JUMPED OUT OF PARK AND INTO REVERSE GEAR. *TR
1996-09-23

VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 1996-09-17
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
  • Summary: SUDDEN ACCELERATION.

1974 Ford Ltd recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 1974 Ford Ltd.

1980-11-07
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
  • Summary: SOME OF THE FLEXIBLE FIVE-BLADE ENGINE COOLING FANS MAY BE SUBJECT TO HIGH BLADE STRESSES THAT CAN RESULT FROM RESONANT VIBRATION INPUTS OCCURRING DURING NORMAL VEHICLE OPERATION. THIS CAN RESULT IN THE BLADES CRACKING DUE TO FATIGUE, AND PORTIONS OF THE BLADE MAY SEPARATE FROM THE FAN ASSEMBLY WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.
  • Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE DEFECTIVE FAN WITH ONE OF AN IMPROVED FIVE-BLADED DESIGN, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
1974-08-01
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
1974-04-22
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STRUCTURE
1974-01-16
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1973-09-05
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1974 Ford Ltd problems:

1973 Lincoln Continental / Ford LTD reliability and longevity. | Bob Is ...
1973 Lincoln Continental / Ford LTD reliability and longevity. | Bob Is ...
https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/1973-lincoln-continental-ford-ltd-reliability-and-longevity.361499/

Nov 1, 2022 ... What would be the common problems I would face if I wanted to use it as a daily driver, driving about 70 miles a day (highway miles). Would the ...

1974 Ford LTD Reviews - Carsurvey.org
1974 Ford LTD Reviews - Carsurvey.org
http://www.carsurvey.org/reviews/ford/ltd/1974/

Aug 2, 2006 ... I would say room and comfort were slightly above average, but the reliability was excellent. I spent only $138 on repairs and maintenance in the ...

Dashboard Light Problem : Dimming? - The Ford Torino Page Forum
Dashboard Light Problem : Dimming? - The Ford Torino Page Forum
https://forum.grantorinosport.org/dashboard-light-problem-dimming_topic3914.html

Jul 4, 2010 ... Mine are very dim on my 78 ford LTD II. I ... I figured it be a common problem? Back to ... awesome, so then do I have to buy a 1974 specific one?

Curbside Classic: 1968 Ford LTD - Peak Ford Hate Turns To ...
Curbside Classic: 1968 Ford LTD - Peak Ford Hate Turns To ...
https://www.curbsideclassic.com/curbside-classics-american/curbside-classic-1968-ford-ltd-peak-ford-hate/

May 23, 2016 ... ... problems. But then teenaged opinions are ... common. Reply. avatar. Hardboiled Eggs and ... 1974 DATSUN 260Z 1975 – 1978 DATSUN 280Z 1974 – 1978 ...

Air ride fuse keeps blowing. - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
Air ride fuse keeps blowing. - Lincolns OnLine Message Forum
https://www.lincolnsonline.com/forum/showthread.php?t=59967

Aug 13, 2008 ... ... common thing or if anyone has had the same problem before I start looking, any help would be appreciated. ... 1974 Ford LTD Brougham 1971 Chrysler ...

Other years of Ford Ltd

ford ltd 1979 photo
Ltd 1979
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ford ltd 1983 photo
Ltd 1983
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ford ltd 1984 photo
Ltd 1984
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ford ltd 1985 photo
Ltd 1985
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ford ltd 1986 photo
Ltd 1986
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ford ltd 1987 photo
Ltd 1987
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