1986 Ford E-250 Owners Manual

The 1986 Ford E-250 is a full-size cargo van with 5.0L V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, rear-wheel drive, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and payload capacity up to 2,500 lbs. Features include AM/FM stereo, air conditioning, cruise control, and dual rear doors. Below are key sections for safety, features, maintenance, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 5.0L V8 engine, C6 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, front disc brakes, dual rear doors, sliding side door.

Vehicle Identification

Locate VIN plate on driver's side dashboard visible through windshield.

1. VIN (Vehicle Identification Number): 17-character code identifying model year, plant, and serial number
2. Certification Label: Driver's door jamb - shows GVWR, tire pressure, and production date
3. Engine Code: 5.0L V8 identified as "H" code
4. Transmission Code: C6 automatic identified as "U"

WARNING! Always provide complete VIN when ordering parts or seeking service.

Instrument Panel

Standard gauge cluster includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights.

1. Speedometer: 0-85 mph with odometer and trip odometer
2. Fuel Gauge: Shows fuel level in 20-gallon tank
3. Temperature Gauge: Monitors engine coolant temperature
4. Warning Lights: Oil pressure, brake, alternator, seat belt
5. AM/FM Stereo: Push-button radio with manual tuning

CAUTION! Respond immediately to red warning lights to prevent engine damage.

Specifications

• Engine: 5.0L V8, 150 hp @ 3,400 rpm, 270 lb-ft torque @ 2,000 rpm
• Transmission: C6 3-speed automatic
• Fuel System: 2-barrel carburetor
• Fuel Type: Regular unleaded (87 octane)
• Tires: LT215/85R16 load range E
• Brakes: Hydraulic with power assist
• Electrical: 12-volt system, 65-amp alternator
• Cargo Volume: 247 cubic feet
• Towing Capacity: 3,500 lbs (with trailer brakes)

Controls and Operation

Standard controls include ignition switch, headlight switch, wiper controls, and climate controls.

Steering Column: Ignition switch, turn signal lever, tilt wheel adjustment

Climate: Manual temperature control, 3-speed blower, defrost settings. Lights: Headlight switch with rotary control for parking/headlights. Wipers: 2-speed with intermittent setting. Cruise Control: Set/coast and resume/accelerate buttons on steering wheel.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Oil Filter: Replace with each oil change
3. Air Filter: Inspect every 6,000 miles, replace as needed
4. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
5. Coolant: Change every 30,000 miles or 24 months
6. Transmission Fluid: Change every 30,000 miles
7. Brake Fluid: Check every 6,000 miles

Tip: Keep maintenance records for warranty and resale value.

Fluid Capacities

Use only recommended fluids for proper operation.

1. Engine Oil: 5 quarts (with filter change)
2. Coolant: 15 quarts
3. Automatic Transmission: 12 quarts (total)
4. Fuel Tank: 20 gallons
5. Rear Differential: 3.5 pints
6. Power Steering: 1.5 pints
7. Brake Fluid: 1 pint
8. Windshield Washer: 1 gallon

WARNING! Use correct fluid types to prevent damage to systems.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment includes seat belts, dual-circuit brakes, and energy-absorbing steering column.

Care & Cleaning

Wash regularly with automotive soap. Wax every 3 months to protect paint. Clean interior with mild detergent.

CAUTION! Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage paint and trim.

Warranty Information

Basic warranty: 12 months/12,000 miles. Powertrain warranty: 36 months/36,000 miles. Rust-through warranty: 36 months/unlimited miles. For warranty claims, contact authorized Ford dealership with proof of purchase and maintenance records.

Troubleshooting

Service: Contact authorized Ford dealership for professional repairs.

Customer Service: 1-800-392-FORD