1986 Chevy S10 Service Manual PDF

The 1986 Chevy S10 Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 1986 Chevrolet S10 pickup truck. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and routine maintenance procedures for the 2.5L and 2.8L engine variants. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Safety Precautions

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 1986 Chevy S10 pickup truck.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Options2.5L L4 Iron Duke, 2.8L V6
Horsepower92 hp (2.5L), 110 hp (2.8L)
Transmission4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase108.3 inches (short bed), 117.9 inches (long bed)
Fuel Capacity13.2 gallons
Payload Capacity1,500 lbs
Towing Capacity2,000 lbs (properly equipped)
Brake SystemFront disc, rear drum
SuspensionIndependent front, leaf spring rear
Electrical System12-volt negative ground

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

  1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
  2. Air Filter: Every 15,000 miles
  3. Spark Plugs: Every 30,000 miles
  4. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
  5. Brake Fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
  6. Transmission Fluid: Every 30,000 miles
  7. Timing Belt: Every 60,000 miles (2.8L V6)

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance and repair.

  1. Engine Removal: Disconnect battery, drain fluids, remove accessories
  2. Cylinder Head: Torque sequence and specifications
  3. Valve Adjustment: Hydraulic lifter procedure
  4. Timing Chain/Belt: Alignment marks and tension adjustment
  5. Oil Pump: Removal and installation steps
  6. Compression Test: Normal range 125-150 psi

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before working. Use proper lifting equipment.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Brake System

Complete brake system service and repair procedures.

Front Disc Brakes: Pad replacement, rotor machining specifications, caliper service

Rear Drum Brakes: Shoe replacement, wheel cylinder service, adjustment

Master Cylinder: Bench bleeding procedure, installation

Brake Lines: Steel and rubber line replacement, bleeding procedure

Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system.

  1. Front Suspension: Ball joints, control arms, torsion bars
  2. Rear Suspension: Leaf springs, shackles, bushings
  3. Shock Absorbers: Replacement procedure and torque specs
  4. Steering Gear: Manual and power steering systems
  5. Alignment: Camber, caster, and toe specifications

Tip: Always replace suspension components in pairs. Use alignment equipment for precise adjustments.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams and electrical component service.

  1. Battery: Testing, charging system diagnosis
  2. Starting System: Starter motor, solenoid testing
  3. Charging System: Alternator output, voltage regulator
  4. Ignition System: Distributor, coil, spark advance
  5. Lighting: Headlight, taillight, turn signal circuits
  6. Instrument Cluster: Gauge operation and repair
  7. Wiring: Color codes, connector locations

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Use circuit diagrams for accurate troubleshooting.

Fuel System

Carburetor and fuel delivery system maintenance.

Carburetor: Rochester 2SE adjustment and rebuild

Fuel Pump: Mechanical pump testing and replacement

Fuel Lines: Steel and rubber line service

Fuel Filter: Replacement interval and procedure

Tank: Removal, cleaning, and installation

Cooling System

Radiator, water pump, and thermostat service.

Radiator: Flushing procedure, cap pressure test

Water Pump: Removal, installation, seal replacement

Thermostat: Testing and replacement

Hoses: Inspection and replacement guidelines

Coolant: 50/50 ethylene glycol mixture recommended

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startIgnition, fuel, or compression issueCheck spark, fuel delivery, compression test
Poor fuel economyCarburetor adjustment, timingAdjust carburetor, check ignition timing
Brake pullStuck caliper, contaminated padsService calipers, replace brake pads
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn bands/clutchesCheck fluid level, adjust bands
Electrical issuesCorroded connections, bad groundsClean connections, check ground straps

Diagnostic Tools: Multimeter, compression tester, vacuum gauge recommended

Technical Support: GM dealer network or certified repair facilities

Safety Precautions

Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Wear safety glasses. Disconnect battery during electrical work. Use proper ventilation when working with fuels and chemicals.

CAUTION! Engine components may be hot. Allow proper cooling time. Use factory service tools when specified.

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