1986 Ford Econoline Motorhome Owners Manual

The 1986 Ford Econoline Motorhome is a Class C motorhome built on the reliable Ford E-Series chassis, featuring a 5.8L V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, dual rear wheels for stability, and comprehensive motorhome amenities including living quarters, kitchen facilities, sleeping areas, and bathroom facilities. Below are key sections for operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Driving Instructions 3. Motorhome Systems 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Electrical Systems 8. Plumbing and Water Systems 9. Safety Features 10. Storage and Weight Limits 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Overview

Key components: Ford E-350 chassis, 5.8L V8 engine, 3-speed automatic transmission, power steering, dual rear wheels, motorhome coach with living facilities.

Component	Description
Chassis	Ford E-350 with reinforced frame
Engine	5.8L V8 gasoline engine
Transmission	3-speed automatic with overdrive
Brakes	Power front disc/rear drum
Suspension	Heavy-duty with dual rear wheels
Fuel Capacity	35 gallons
GVWR	10,000 lbs
Overall Length	24 feet
Water Capacity	40 gallons fresh, 30 gallons gray, 30 gallons black
LP Gas Capacity	20 gallons

Driving Instructions

Familiarize yourself with vehicle dimensions and handling characteristics before operation.

Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, fluids, lights, and all systems before departure.
Starting procedure: Ensure parking brake engaged, shift to neutral, start engine.
Driving tips: Allow extra stopping distance, be aware of height clearance, use mirrors frequently.
Parking: Level vehicle when parking for extended periods, engage parking brake.

WARNING! This is a large vehicle requiring different driving techniques than passenger cars. Practice in open areas before highway driving.

Motorhome Systems

Power on systems; follow proper startup sequence.

Electrical system: 12V DC for vehicle, 120V AC for coach with shore power connection.
Water system: Fresh water tank, water pump, water heater (6 gallon capacity).
LP gas system: Furnace, water heater, refrigerator, stove operation.
Sanitation system: Toilet, black and gray water tanks with monitoring system.

CAUTION! Always ventilate when using LP gas appliances. Never operate generator while refueling.

Specifications

Engine: 5.8L V8, 210 horsepower
Transmission: 3-speed automatic C6
Fuel Economy: 8-10 MPG (highway/city combined)
Brakes: Power assisted front disc/rear drum
Tires: LT225/75R16E load range E
Electrical: 12V DC system, 55 amp alternator
Generator: Optional 4KW LP/gasoline
Refrigerator: 6 cu ft LP/electric
Furnace: 25,000 BTU forced air
Water Heater: 6 gallon LP/electric

Controls and Instrument Panel

Driver's area features standard Ford instrumentation with additional motorhome controls.

Instrument Panel: Speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure, voltmeter, odometer.

Motorhome Controls: Water pump switch, LP gas detector, tank level monitors, generator start/stop, interior lighting controls, furnace thermostat, water heater controls, refrigerator controls, awning operation (if equipped).

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures reliability and extends vehicle life.

Engine oil and filter: Change every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Transmission fluid: Check monthly, change every 30,000 miles
Cooling system: Flush every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Brakes: Inspect every 10,000 miles, replace as needed
Tires: Rotate every 6,000 miles, check pressure weekly
LP gas system: Annual inspection required

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

Electrical Systems

Dual electrical systems: 12V DC for vehicle and coach basics, 120V AC for appliances.

12V DC system: Powers lights, water pump, fans, and vehicle electronics
120V AC system: Operates when connected to shore power or generator
Batteries: One engine starting battery, one or two coach batteries
Converter: Charges coach batteries and provides 12V power when connected to shore power

WARNING! Turn off main power when connecting/disconnecting shore power. Never operate 120V systems while dry camping without proper power source.

Plumbing and Water Systems

Complete self-contained water and sanitation system.

Fresh water system: 40 gallon tank with 12V water pump
Water heater: 6 gallon capacity, LP or electric operation
Toilet: Hand flush or foot pedal operation
Drains: Gray water (sinks/shower) and black water (toilet) tanks
Winterizing: Required for cold weather storage

CAUTION! Use RV-approved toilet paper only. Never leave black tank valve open during camping.

Safety Features

LP gas detector with alarm, smoke detector, carbon monoxide detector, fire extinguisher, emergency exit windows, seat belts for all designated seating positions.

Storage and Weight Limits

Respect all weight limits for safe operation.

GVWR: 10,000 lbs maximum including vehicle, passengers, cargo, and fluids

CCC: 2,500 lbs cargo carrying capacity (varies by equipment)

Storage: Distribute weight evenly, heavy items low and forward

CAUTION! Overloading can cause handling problems and component failure. Weigh vehicle fully loaded periodically.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, ignition switch
No 12V power	Battery, fuses, converter	Check coach battery, main fuses, converter operation
Water pump not working	Power, fuse, pump	Check 12V power, replace fuse, inspect pump
Refrigerator not cooling	LP gas, power, leveling	Check LP supply, electrical connection, ensure vehicle level
Generator won't start	Fuel, battery, oil level	Check fuel supply, starting battery, oil level

Emergency: Carry basic tools, spare fuses, tire repair kit, and emergency contact numbers.

Service: Contact Ford dealership for chassis issues, RV service center for coach systems