1986 F150 Repair Manual

The 1986 Ford F150 is a full-size pickup truck featuring various engine options including the 4.9L inline-six, 5.0L V8, and 5.8L V8 engines. This comprehensive repair manual covers maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair procedures for engine systems, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and more. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and step-by-step 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. Exhaust System 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key specifications for the 1986 Ford F150 including engine options, dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

Specification	Description
Engine Options	4.9L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8
Transmission	4-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase	116.8 inches (regular cab)
Fuel Capacity	16.5 gallons
Oil Capacity	5 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Capacity	15 quarts
Gross Vehicle Weight	4,600-5,500 lbs
Brake System	Front disc, rear drum
Tire Size	P235/75R15 (standard)
Electrical System	12-volt negative ground

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 60,000 miles (if equipped)

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper jack stands when working under vehicle.

Engine Systems

Detailed repair procedures for engine components and systems.

Engine removal and installation procedures
Cylinder head removal and valve adjustment
Timing chain/belt replacement
Oil pump service and replacement
Carburetor adjustment and rebuilding
Distributor timing and ignition system
Compression testing procedures

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before performing any work. Use proper torque specifications for all fasteners.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual Transmission: Clutch replacement, shift linkage adjustment, fluid change procedures
Automatic Transmission: Fluid and filter service, band adjustments, troubleshooting
Transfer Case: 4WD system service and maintenance
Drive Shaft: U-joint replacement and balancing
Rear Differential: Gear oil change, bearing replacement
Front Axle: 4WD hub maintenance and repair

Brake System

Complete brake system maintenance and repair procedures.

Front Disc Brakes: Pad replacement, rotor resurfacing, caliper service. Rear Drum Brakes: Shoe replacement, wheel cylinder service, adjustment procedures. Master Cylinder: Bench bleeding, installation. Brake Lines: Inspection and replacement. Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and service.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system repair.

Front suspension: Ball joints, tie rods, control arms
Shock absorber replacement: Front and rear
Spring replacement: Coil and leaf springs
Steering gearbox adjustment and replacement
Power steering pump service
Wheel bearing adjustment and replacement

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension work.

Electrical System

Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair.

Battery testing and replacement procedures
Alternator testing and replacement
Starter motor service and replacement
Wiring diagram interpretation
Lighting system repair: Headlights, taillights, turn signals
Instrument cluster service and repair
Fuse box location and circuit protection

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical repairs. Use proper circuit testing equipment.

Fuel System

Fuel delivery system maintenance and repair.

Fuel pump replacement: Mechanical and electric
Carburetor service and adjustment
Fuel filter replacement
Fuel line inspection and replacement
Fuel tank removal and cleaning
Fuel gauge sending unit service

Cooling System

Engine cooling system maintenance and repair procedures.

Radiator service and replacement, thermostat replacement, water pump service, coolant hose inspection, fan clutch service, overheating diagnosis.

Exhaust System

Exhaust system components and repair procedures.

Manifold inspection and replacement, exhaust pipe service, muffler replacement, catalytic converter service, exhaust leak diagnosis.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel delivery, spark plugs, compression test
Overheating	Coolant leak, thermostat, water pump	Pressure test system, check thermostat, inspect water pump
Brake pulling	Stuck caliper, contaminated pads	Inspect calipers, replace pads, flush brake fluid
Electrical issues	Bad ground, corroded connections	Clean battery terminals, check grounds, test alternator
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn bands/clutches	Check fluid level and condition, adjust bands

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer if equipped.

Service: Refer to Ford dealership for specialized diagnostic equipment.