Two problems related to battery dead have been reported for the 1997 Ford F-150. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
I recently purchased a 1997 Ford F-150. I had parked it for a few weeks until I sold my chevy tahoe. When I went to start it the battery was dead. I charged the battery and when I reconnected it I went in the cab and could smell burning plastic and all the lights on the dash were on, even though the key was in my hand. I looked under the dash and found that the gem module was sizzling and smoking. I quickly got out and disconnected the battery. I have no doubt that it would have started on fire had I not noticed it in time. It surprised me that no fuses were blown. I looked online and found that this is a very common thing for alot of 1997 - 2003 Fords and was wondering why this hasn't been recalled. I worked for a chevy dealership in marquette mi so I know a little about recalls and I feel that this is very unsafe and it should not be an expense put on the consumer. I think that with the decline in sales for the american automakers they should be taking care of these faulty modules. I am currently in the process of replacing it so im not sure how much it will cost me but im expecting it to be between $120- $160.
Battery failed.