1986 E-250 Manual

The 1986 Ford E-250 is a full-size van featuring rear-wheel drive, V8 engine options including the 5.0L and 5.8L, three-speed automatic transmission, heavy-duty chassis, cargo capacity up to 4,030 lbs, dual rear wheels option, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and various trim levels. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance, operation, troubleshooting, and safety information.

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: V8 engine, automatic transmission, heavy-duty frame, cargo van configuration.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	5.0L (302ci) V8, 5.8L (351ci) V8
Transmission	3-speed automatic C6
Wheelbase	138 inches
Cargo Capacity	Up to 4,030 lbs GVWR
Fuel Capacity	24 gallons
Braking System	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Front independent, rear leaf spring
Steering	Power-assisted recirculating ball
Electrical	12-volt system, 65-amp alternator
Tire Size	LT215/85R16 (standard)

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Filter Replacement: Air filter every 15,000 miles, fuel filter every 30,000 miles
3. Brake Inspection: Every 10,000 miles
4. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
5. Transmission Fluid: Check every 15,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Engine hot - allow to cool before servicing.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation procedures for daily use.

1. Starting: Insert key, turn to start position, release when engine starts
2. Shifting: Move selector through PRNDL positions smoothly
3. Braking: Apply steady pressure, avoid sudden stops
4. Loading: Distribute weight evenly, do not exceed GVWR
5. Parking: Apply parking brake on inclines

CAUTION! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving. Check mirrors before lane changes.

Engine & Drivetrain

• Engine Type: 90° V8, overhead valves
• Displacement: 5.0L (302 cubic inches) or 5.8L (351 cubic inches)
• Horsepower: 5.0L: 190 hp @ 3800 rpm, 5.8L: 210 hp @ 3600 rpm
• Torque: 5.0L: 270 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm, 5.8L: 315 lb-ft @ 2800 rpm
• Transmission: C6 3-speed automatic with lock-up torque converter
• Drive Type: Rear-wheel drive with limited-slip differential option
• Axle Ratio: 3.55:1 standard, 4.10:1 optional

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 65-amp alternator and maintenance-free battery.

Components: Battery, alternator, starter, voltage regulator, fuse panel, lighting circuits.

Battery: Group 65, 12V 650 CCA. Alternator: 65 amp output. Fuses: 14-circuit panel under dash. Bulbs: Headlights H6054, taillights 1157, turn signals 1156. Gauges: Fuel, temperature, oil pressure, ammeter.

Braking System

Hydraulic dual-circuit system with power assist.

1. Front: Disc brakes with single-piston calipers
2. Rear: Drum brakes with self-adjusting mechanism
3. Parking Brake: Mechanical cable to rear wheels
4. Master Cylinder: Tandem type with separate reservoirs

Tip: Check brake fluid level monthly. Replace brake pads when worn to 1/8 inch.

Suspension & Steering

Front independent suspension with power steering.

1. Front: Twin I-beam with coil springs and shock absorbers
2. Rear: Leaf springs with staggered shock absorbers
3. Steering: Recirculating ball with power assist
4. Turning Radius: 47.2 feet
5. Wheel Alignment: Check every 15,000 miles

WARNING! Have suspension work performed by qualified technician. Never modify suspension components.

Fuel System

Mechanical fuel pump with carburetor delivery system.

• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded (87 octane)
• Fuel Pump: Mechanical, camshaft-driven
• Carburetor: 2-barrel Motorcraft 2150
• Fuel Filter: In-line replaceable element
• Fuel Lines: Steel with rubber connections
• Evaporative Control: Charcoal canister system

Cooling System

Pressurized system with radiator and mechanical fan.

Radiator: Cross-flow design with plastic tanks. Thermostat: 195°F opening temperature. Coolant Capacity: 16 quarts with heater. Water Pump: Centrifugal type. Fan: 7-blade mechanical with clutch. Pressure Cap: 16 psi rating.

CAUTION! Never remove radiator cap when engine is hot. Use 50/50 coolant mixture.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment for 1986 model year.

• Seat Belts: Lap belts for all seating positions
• Braking: Dual-circuit hydraulic system
• Lighting: Headlights, parking lights, turn signals, brake lights
• Mirrors: Dual West Coast-style mirrors
• Horn: Standard electric horn

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery charge, fuel level, spark plugs, distributor cap
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat, fan	Check coolant level, thermostat operation, fan clutch
Brake pull	Calipers, fluid, alignment	Inspect brake calipers, check fluid, verify wheel alignment
Transmission slip	Fluid level, bands	Check transmission fluid, adjust bands if applicable
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator, grounds	Test battery voltage, alternator output, clean ground connections

Service: Refer to Ford dealership or qualified mechanic for complex repairs.

Parts: Genuine Ford parts recommended for optimal performance.