Verdict · NHTSA data
Limited data — recalls on file
NHTSA has just 0 complaints on file for the 1987 Ford L Series (heavy) — too few to judge reliability from owner reports alone — but one recall campaign applies to this year, so any used example should have its VIN checked for completed recall work.
0
NHTSA complaints
1
Recalls
0
Investigations
0
Crash-involved
0
Fires reported
0
Injuries
0
Deaths
—
NCAP overall
1 NHTSA recall campaign on file. Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers.
Defect
DIESEL ENGINE GOVEERNOR LEVER ASSEMBLIES MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY ASSEMBLED SO THAT ONE OR MORE OF THREE RETAINING PRONGS MAY NOT BE ENGAGED IN THE GOVERNOR LEVER PIVOT SHAFTS.
Consequence
SEPARATION OF ACCELERATOR LINKAGE AND RETURN SPRINGSCOULD OCCUR, CAUSING THE TIME FOR THE ENGINE TO RETURN TO IDLE FROM AN OPENTHROTTLE POSITION TO SUBSTANTIALLY INCREASE.
Remedy
REPLACE GOVERNOR LEVER ASSEMBLIES.
The record is thin — 0 NHTSA complaints — so owner-report data can't strongly confirm reliability either way, though 1 recall should be verified as completed.
Yes — NHTSA lists 1 recall campaign affecting the 1987 Ford L Series (heavy). Recall repairs are free at franchised dealers; check the VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm the work was done.
Based on NHTSA ODI data through June 2026. Complaints are consumer-reported and unverified. Updated July 5, 2026.
Compiled by Sharon Ben-Moshe, Founder.