1986 Chevy Pickup Owners Manual

The 1986 Chevy Pickup is a full-size truck featuring various engine options including the 4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, and 5.7L V8 engines, available in both 2WD and 4WD configurations with manual or automatic transmissions. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for all 1986 Chevy Pickup models including C10, C20, and C30 series. Below are key sections for vehicle features, operation procedures, maintenance schedules, specifications, and troubleshooting guidance.

1. Vehicle Features 2. Instrument Panel 3. Starting & Operating 4. Specifications 5. Controls & Features 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Capacities 8. Towing & Hauling 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Warranty Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Features

Key components: Steel cab and bed construction, bench or bucket seats, AM/FM radio, heater/defroster system, power steering (standard), power brakes (standard).

Feature	Description
Engine Options	4.3L V6, 5.0L V8, 5.7L V8 engines
Transmission	3-speed automatic, 4-speed manual, or 5-speed manual
Drivetrain	2WD or 4WD configurations
Bed Length	6.5 ft or 8 ft styleside/fleetside beds
Cab Configuration	Regular cab only
Suspension	Independent front suspension with coil springs
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with power assist
Fuel System	Carbureted with mechanical fuel pump
Electrical	12-volt system with alternator
Cooling	Radiator with mechanical fan

Instrument Panel

Standard gauges include speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and oil pressure gauge. Warning lights for alternator, brakes, and engine.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in MPH.
Fuel Gauge: Indicates fuel level in tank.
Temperature Gauge: Monitors engine coolant temperature.
Oil Pressure Gauge: Shows engine oil pressure.
Ammeter: Indicates battery charging status.

WARNING! If any warning light illuminates while driving, stop vehicle immediately and investigate cause.

Starting & Operating

Proper starting procedure ensures long engine life.

Manual transmission: Depress clutch, shift to neutral, turn key.
Automatic transmission: Ensure selector in Park, depress brake, turn key.
Cold starts: Use choke on carbureted models (pull knob).
Warm-up: Allow engine to idle for 30-60 seconds before driving.
Shifting: Use smooth, deliberate shifts; avoid grinding gears.

CAUTION! Never start vehicle in gear. Always check parking brake is engaged when parked.

Specifications

Wheelbase: 117.5" (short bed), 131.5" (long bed)
Overall Length: 194.5" to 212.5" depending on bed
Fuel Capacity: 16-20 gallons depending on tank
Payload Capacity: 1,500-3,000 lbs depending on model
Towing Capacity: 5,000-8,000 lbs with proper equipment
Brakes: Front disc 11.75", rear drum 11.15"
Tire Size: P195/75R15 to P235/75R15
Gross Vehicle Weight: 4,600-9,000 lbs

Controls & Features

Dashboard controls include headlight switch, wiper control, heater controls, radio, and ventilation controls.

Steering Column: Ignition switch, turn signal lever, tilt wheel (optional).

Heater/Defroster: Three-speed blower, temperature control, defrost vents. Radio: AM/FM stereo with manual tuning. Ventilation: Fresh air vents, wing windows. Lighting: Headlight switch, dimmer switch on floor. Wipers: Two-speed with washer control.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Change oil and filter
Every 6,000 miles: Lubricate chassis, check brakes
Every 12,000 miles: Replace air filter, check timing
Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, coolant
Every 50,000 miles: Replace spark plugs, check ignition

Tip: Keep accurate maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Fluid Capacities

Proper fluid levels are essential for vehicle operation.

Engine Oil: 4-5 quarts with filter
Coolant: 15-17 quarts
Automatic Transmission: 12-14 quarts
Manual Transmission: 3-4 pints
Differential: 3-4 pints
Transfer Case: 2-3 pints (4WD models)
Brake Fluid: As needed in reservoir
Windshield Washer: 1 gallon

WARNING! Use only recommended fluids. Never mix different types of antifreeze.

Towing & Hauling

Proper loading and towing procedures prevent damage.

Check payload rating on door jamb sticker
Distribute load evenly in bed
Secure all cargo with tiedowns
For towing: Use proper hitch and wiring
Check trailer brakes if required
Adjust mirrors for trailer visibility
Practice turning and backing with trailer
Allow extra stopping distance

CAUTION! Never exceed GVWR or towing capacity. Overloading can cause brake failure.

Care & Cleaning

Regular cleaning protects finish and prevents rust.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, rinse thoroughly. Wax every 6 months. Interior: Vacuum regularly, use vinyl cleaner on surfaces. Underbody: Rinse to remove road salt. Chrome: Use chrome polish to prevent pitting.

CAUTION! Avoid high-pressure washers near seals. Do not use abrasive cleaners on paint.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain warranty: 5 years/50,000 miles. Rust-through warranty: 6 years/100,000 miles. For warranty service, contact any Chevrolet dealer with proof of purchase and maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery charge, fuel in tank, spark plugs
Rough idle	Carburetor, vacuum leaks	Adjust carburetor mixture, check vacuum hoses
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, replace thermostat if stuck
Brake pulling	Calipers, alignment	Check brake pads, front end alignment
Transmission slipping	Fluid level, bands	Check fluid level, adjust bands if manual

Service: Contact authorized Chevrolet dealer for major repairs.

Parts: Genuine GM parts recommended for optimal performance.