Resources for the Repair and Maintenance of your Ford E-350
Ford E-350 Models:
Ford E-350 Problems
Rough Running Engine and Possible Check Engine Light
The Check Engine Light may illuminate, the engine may run rough and have misfires on acceleration. Commonly the ignition coils and/or the ignition coil boots are the cause of this problem. The rubber boot that insulates the coil to the spark plug can dry and crack allowing arcing. Inspect the coils and boots, and replace them as needed. Our technicians also recommend replacing the coil boots any time the spark plugs are replaced.
Front End may make Rattle Noise over Bumps, Handling Issues
The front end may make a rattle noise over bumps. There may be handling issues, and play in the front wheels on inspection. If there is up and down movement on the front wheels while the lower control arms are being supported, inspect the upper and lower ball joints for excessive play. These are prone to failure from moisture entry and lack of lubrication. The ball joints should be replaced as needed.
Loud Popping Noise and Misfire Experienced
The spark plugs may become dislodged from the cylinder heads. A loud popping noise can be heard and a subsequent misfire experienced. The threads on the spark plug ports in the cylinder head(s) can become stripped or missing when the spark plug is dislodged. The threads in cylinder heads may be replaced using “Lock-N-Stitch” aluminum inserts. Our technicians tell us thread replacement is performed when the vehicle is out of...
Coolant Leakage from Heater Core, Possible Leakage onto Passenger Side Foot Well
Electrolysis can cause repeated failures of the heater core and radiator. The diagnosing technician should check for voltage present in the coolant, with the battery disconnected, because electrical current in the coolant causes electrolysis. Corroded or deteriorated parts should be replaced, and the coolant should be flushed. Ground straps can be added to help prevent future corrosion of components.
Excessive Vibration Felt in Vehicle While Driving - Fluid Leaks From Rear of Transmission
This concern relates to vehicles equipped with the E4OD and 4R100 automatic transmissions. Fluid leaks from the rear of the transmission and excessive vibration felt in the vehicle while driving can be caused by a lack of lubrication to the rear of the transmission and rear seal failure. The extension housing (rear portion of transmission) can lose lubrication if the fluid supply hole becomes clogged. This leads to rear seal failure fr...
Ford E-350 Recalls (Recent)
Ford Recalls 2008–2009 Vehicles with School Bus Prep Packages for Fuel System Issue
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Ford is recalling sixty-five 2008–2009 E-350 and 2009 E-450 cutaway models equipped with school bus prep packages for failing to comply with federal safety standards on fuel system integrity. The vehicles may not have been assembled with fuel tank protection brackets, which can cause the fuel tank to leak if a crash occurs. In the presence of an ignition source, this could result in a fire. Dealers will inspect and install brackets free of charge.
Learn more »The Driver's Power Seat Adjuster May Fail
RepairPal Expert Overview:
On vehicles equipped with a power driver's seat, the seat track worm gear may fracture. This could result in unintended seat movement in the event of a crash or other case of severe loading, which may increase the risk of injury to the driver. Dealers will inspect the driver's seat track and replace it if necessary. This recall is scheduled to begin on May 2, 2011. The Ford recall number is 11C16.
Learn more »Exterior Lights May Not Function as Expected
RepairPal Expert Overview:
An internal fault may develop within the multi-function turn signal switch. This can affect turn signal, tail, hazard, and/or brake light operation. Non-functioning exterior lights could increase the risk of a crash. Dealers will replace the multi-function switch to correct this concern. This recall is scheduled to begin on August 15, 2011. The Ford recall number is 11C18.
Learn more »Potential Propane Leak
RepairPal Expert Overview:
Fifteen vehicles using the Roush liquid propane autogas fuel system may develop a propane leak. This condition is a result of a mis-machined valve in the propane system. A propane leak increases the risk of a fire. Roush will replace the defective valve with a correctly machined one. No notification schedule is available at this time.
Learn more »Potential Fuel Leak
RepairPal Expert Overview:
101 vehicles altered by Roush Racing to operate using the Roush Cleantech Propane Autogas may develop a fuel leak. This is due to improperly seated fuel injector retention clips. Fuel leaks always increase the risk of a fire. Roush will replace the retaining clips to correct this concern.
Learn more »Ford E-350 Questions and Answers
what is the tool and procedure used to remove the front brake calipers?
got a 1990 e350 box truck that has just about no brake pedal we have changed the master cylinder and the front brake pads also adjusted the rear brake shoes
spark to disrbuor but not out
I have a 1991 Tioga Mantera class c motorhome built on a 1990 Ford e350 chasis. IT has a gas 460 cubic inch engine. MY problem is I have a good chasis battery (been tested) but IM not getting any e...
I replaced the power steering pump and the steering is so tight I have to use all my strength to turn
Ford E-350 Stories
5.4 engine is a joke, try changing spark plugs. engineers and designers must have been assleep!
Big Red is a beast. She has the role of large family mover. The vehicle is taking a beating and has not even come close to quitting. The AC design by default is weak, but no issues. I alsouse it to haul hay and other trailers.
First E350. Have had multiple exhaust problems. Hard trying to track down no start problem. Great tranny in it though. Lot of little idiosyncracies though
208,000 and still a good, strong running vehicle. Some minor electrical issues (power door locks) and leaks/weeping (oil pan, power steering). Only engine problem is occasional misfiring and the high cost to check/replace plugs and boots.
Moved up from a E150 and I love it. I just wish it was easier to find accessories for E series vehicles. Brush guards/ grill protectors etc. Also, I went from the 5.8L E150 getting 16mpg in town to the 5.4L getting 13.5-14mpg in town lightly loaded. would love that 2-2.5 MPG back.