1986 Ford F250 Repair Manual PDF

The 1986 Ford F250 Repair Manual provides comprehensive service and repair information for the 1986 model year Ford F-250 pickup truck. This manual covers engine systems (including 4.9L, 5.0L, 5.8L, 6.9L, and 7.5L engines), transmission, drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, body, and chassis components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, specifications, and repair instructions.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Service 5. Brake System 6. Electrical System 7. Suspension & Steering 8. Cooling System 9. Fuel System 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Wiring Diagrams

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1986 Ford F250 including engine options, dimensions, capacities, and performance data.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Options4.9L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8, 6.9L Diesel V8, 7.5L V8
Transmission4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase133" Regular Cab, 155" SuperCab
Payload Capacity2,500-4,200 lbs depending on configuration
Fuel Capacity19-38 gallons depending on tank options
GVWR6,600-8,800 lbs
Brake SystemFront disc, rear drum with power assist
Front SuspensionTwin I-beam with coil springs
Rear SuspensionLeaf spring with staggered shocks
Electrical System12-volt negative ground

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal performance and longevity.

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

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

Engine Repair

Comprehensive engine service procedures including removal, installation, and component replacement.

  1. Engine removal: Disconnect battery, drain fluids, remove accessories, unbolt mounts
  2. Cylinder head service: Torque sequence and specifications
  3. Timing chain/belt replacement: Alignment marks and procedures
  4. Valve adjustment: Clearance specifications and adjustment methods
  5. Oil pump replacement: Removal and installation steps
  6. Cooling system: Thermostat, water pump, radiator service

CAUTION! Engine components are heavy; use proper lifting equipment. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Transmission Service

Brake System

Complete brake system service including hydraulic components, pads, shoes, and troubleshooting.

Front Disc Brakes: Pad replacement, caliper service, rotor machining/replacement. Rear Drum Brakes: Shoe replacement, wheel cylinder service, adjustment procedures. Hydraulic System: Master cylinder, proportioning valve, brake line replacement. Parking Brake: Cable adjustment and component replacement.

Electrical System

Diagnosis and repair of electrical components, charging system, and accessories.

  1. Battery testing and replacement procedures
  2. Alternator and voltage regulator service
  3. Starter motor removal and testing
  4. Ignition system: Distributor, coil, module replacement
  5. Lighting circuits: Headlights, taillights, turn signals
  6. Instrument cluster: Gauge and warning light diagnosis

Tip: Use factory wiring diagrams for accurate circuit tracing and diagnosis.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service, alignment procedures, and steering component replacement.

  1. Front suspension: Ball joints, tie rods, coil springs, shocks
  2. Rear suspension: Leaf springs, shackles, U-bolts, shocks
  3. Steering gear: Manual and power steering pump service
  4. Wheel alignment: Specifications and adjustment procedures
  5. Wheel bearings: Packing and adjustment
  6. Stabilizer bar: Bushings and link replacement

WARNING! Always support vehicle properly with jack stands. Suspension components under tension can cause injury.

Cooling System

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and cooling system maintenance.

Fuel System

Carburetor service, fuel pump replacement, tank cleaning, and emission controls.

CAUTION! Relieve fuel pressure before servicing. No smoking or open flames near fuel system work.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and diagnostic procedures for various systems.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compression issueCheck fuel pressure, spark plugs, compression test
Poor fuel economyCarburetor adjustment, timing, dragging brakesTune-up, adjust carburetor, check brake drag
Brake pullingStuck caliper, contaminated pads, alignmentService calipers, replace pads, check alignment
Transmission slippingLow fluid, worn bands/clutchesCheck fluid level and condition, internal inspection
Electrical issuesBad grounds, corroded connections, failed componentsClean connections, test components, repair wiring

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for engine management, lighting, accessories, and instrument panel.

Service Information: For additional support, contact Ford Motor Company or authorized dealership. Technical service bulletins available through Ford service network.

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