1986 Ford F-250 User Manual

The 1986 Ford F-250 is a heavy-duty pickup truck featuring robust construction, powerful engine options, four-wheel drive capability, durable suspension system, comprehensive instrumentation, and versatile cargo capacity. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Operation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Instrumentation 6. Towing and Hauling 7. Maintenance Schedule 8. Safety Features 10. Care & Cleaning 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Heavy-duty chassis, powerful engine options, four-wheel drive system, durable suspension, comprehensive dashboard instrumentation.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	5.0L V8, 5.8L V8, 6.9L Diesel V8
Transmission	4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Four-Wheel Drive	Manual locking hubs, 2WD/4WD selection
Payload Capacity	Up to 4,000 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity	Up to 10,000 lbs with proper equipment
Fuel System	Carbureted or diesel injection
Braking System	Power front disc/rear drum brakes
Suspension	Twin-I-Beam front, leaf spring rear
Instrumentation	Speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature, oil pressure
Cabin Features	AM/FM radio, heater/defroster, bench seat

Vehicle Operation

Familiarize yourself with controls before operating.

Starting procedure: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to start position.
Four-wheel drive: Stop vehicle, engage 4WD lever, lock front hubs manually.
Gear shifting: Smooth clutch operation for manual; gradual acceleration for automatic.
Braking: Allow extra distance for heavy loads; use engine braking on declines.

WARNING! Always wear seat belts. Never exceed rated payload or towing capacities.

First-Time Setup

Initial vehicle preparation and adjustment.

Seat adjustment: Slide bench seat forward/backward for proper pedal reach.
Mirror adjustment: Position side mirrors for maximum visibility.
Radio presets: Set favorite AM/FM stations using tuning dial.
Tire pressure: Check and adjust to recommended PSI (see door jamb sticker).
Fluid levels: Verify engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid.

CAUTION! Ensure parking brake is engaged during setup procedures.

Specifications

Engine Options: 5.0L V8 (150 hp), 5.8L V8 (210 hp), 6.9L Diesel V8 (170 hp)
Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 133" or 155"
Bed Length: 6.75' or 8'
Fuel Capacity: 19 gallons (standard), 38 gallons (optional dual tanks)
GVWR: 6,600 to 8,800 lbs
Brakes: Front disc, rear drum with power assist
Suspension: Twin-I-Beam front, leaf spring rear
Tires: LT235/85R16
Exterior Dimensions: 211" length, 79" width, 75" height

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard layout and control functions.

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, odometer, fuel gauge, coolant temperature, oil pressure, ammeter.

Steering Column: Ignition switch, turn signal lever, headlight switch, wiper control.

Center Console: Heater controls, radio, ashtray, 4WD selector (if equipped).

Floor Controls: Clutch, brake, accelerator, parking brake, transmission shifter.

Auxiliary Controls: Headlight dimmer switch, hazard lights, rear window defroster.

Towing and Hauling

Proper procedures for maximum payload and towing.

Weight distribution: Load cargo evenly in bed; use proper hitch for trailers.
Trailer wiring: Connect trailer lights using 7-pin connector.
Mirror extension: Install extended mirrors for trailer visibility.
Brake controller: Install electronic brake controller for heavy trailers.
Cooling system: Monitor engine temperature during heavy towing.

Tip: Downshift on steep grades to control speed and reduce brake fade.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Lubricate chassis, check brake pads
Every 12,000 miles: Replace air filter, check spark plugs
Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, differential fluid
Every 50,000 miles: Replace timing chain, check valve clearance
Seasonal: Check coolant concentration, tire rotation

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work.

Safety Features

Seat Belts: Three-point lap/shoulder belts for front occupants. Braking System: Power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes with dual-circuit design. Lighting: Halogen headlights, side marker lights, reflectors. Structural: Steel cab construction, reinforced frame.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior: Wash with mild soap and water; wax regularly for paint protection. Interior: Vacuum carpets; clean vinyl surfaces with mild detergent. Underbody: Rinse to remove road salt and debris.

CAUTION! Avoid high-pressure sprays near electrical components and door seals.

Regulatory Information

FMVSS Compliance: Meets all applicable Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. EPA Certification: Conforms to 1986 emissions standards. Copyright © 1986 Ford Motor Company; all rights reserved. For service and support, contact authorized Ford dealerships or Ford Customer Service Division.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Weak battery, fuel delivery	Check battery voltage; verify fuel pump operation; check choke operation.
Rough idle	Vacuum leak, ignition timing	Inspect vacuum hoses; check and adjust timing; clean carburetor.
Overheating	Coolant level, thermostat	Check coolant level; test thermostat; flush radiator if clogged.
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Resurface or replace front brake rotors; check caliper operation.
4WD not engaging	Vacuum system, hubs	Check vacuum lines to hubs; manually lock hubs if automatic system fails.
Electrical issues	Ground connections, alternator	Clean battery terminals; test alternator output; check fuses.

Service: Contact authorized Ford dealership for professional service and genuine parts.