One problem related to transmission not go into gear has been reported for the 1997 Ford F-150. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Transmission failure, truck has 112000 miles and the tranny would not shift to 3rd gear, the fluid and filter has been changse 5 times more than recommended by manafacturer, I also had aamco install a larger transmission cooler. What happened to the tranny is the c clamp that locks the main drive in the transmission came off, and destroyed the od drum and gears I have always kept my vehicles well maintained and at a cost of $1,900. 56 I feel that Ford should re imburse me for this , the truck has never hauled any heavy loads or pulling a trailor with anything heavier than a riding lawnmower. I have a 1970 Ford truck that is a better truck than my 1997. I could only imagine what would happen to a new truck if driven like the commercials they produce. I have always been a Ford man but they are changing my mind quickly. This truck has never been abused. It's absurd that a possibly $5. 00 part could cause me almost 2 grand. I am about to buy a new truck and I will be shopping around and looking at consumer reports to make a decision.