1986 Ford Falcon Camper Van Manual

The 1986 Ford Falcon Camper Van is a versatile recreational vehicle built on the reliable Ford Falcon platform, featuring a 3.3L inline-six engine, 4-speed manual transmission, integrated camper amenities including sleeping quarters, compact kitchenette, storage compartments, and basic living facilities. This manual covers operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for both the vehicle and camper components.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Camper Features 3. Operation Guidelines 4. Maintenance Schedule 5. Controls and Instrument Panel 6. Camper Systems 7. Driving and Handling 8. Storage Solutions 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Safety Information 11. Troubleshooting

Vehicle Specifications

Key mechanical components: 3.3L inline-6 cylinder engine, 4-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, power-assisted brakes.

Feature	Description
Engine	3.3L (200ci) inline-six cylinder
Transmission	4-speed manual
Fuel System	Single-barrel carburetor
Fuel Capacity	60 liters (15.8 gallons)
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with power assist
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear
Wheelbase	2815mm (110.8 inches)
Overall Length	4680mm (184.3 inches)
Gross Vehicle Weight	2200kg (4850 lbs)
Payload Capacity	600kg (1320 lbs)

Camper Features

Integrated living space with sleeping, cooking, and storage facilities.

Sleeping area: Convertible dinette to double bed, overhead bunk option
Kitchenette: Two-burner propane stove, sink with manual pump, 12V cooler
Storage: Under-seat compartments, overhead cabinets, exterior storage
Electrical: 12V system with auxiliary battery, interior lighting
Water: 40-liter fresh water tank, 30-liter gray water tank

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation when using propane appliances. Never operate while driving.

Operation Guidelines

Pre-departure checks and daily operation procedures.

Pre-trip inspection: Check tires, fluids, lights, propane system
Starting procedure: Depress clutch, neutral gear, turn ignition
Gear shifting: Smooth clutch engagement, proper RPM matching
Camper setup: Level vehicle, extend stabilizer jacks, connect utilities
Propane system: Open tank valve, check for leaks, light appliances

CAUTION! Always check overhead clearance before driving. Maximum height: 3.2 meters.

Maintenance Schedule

Every 5,000 km: Oil and filter change, tire rotation
Every 10,000 km: Spark plugs, air filter, brake inspection
Every 20,000 km: Coolant flush, transmission fluid
Every 30,000 km: Timing chain inspection, fuel filter
Seasonal: Camper system winterization, roof seal inspection
Annual: Propane system check, brake fluid flush

Controls and Instrument Panel

Standard Falcon instrumentation with additional camper monitoring.

Vehicle: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature, oil pressure, alternator charge. Camper: Propane level, water tank levels, battery charge indicator.

Switches: Headlights, wipers, heater, hazard lights, interior lights, water pump, auxiliary power. Gauges: Monitor engine temperature and oil pressure during operation.

Camper Systems

Water, electrical, and propane systems operation.

Water system: Fill fresh tank, operate manual pump, drain gray tank
Electrical: 12V DC for lights, water pump; 240V shore power optional
Propane: Two 9kg tanks, regulator, lines to stove and heater
Ventilation: Roof vent, side windows, screens

Tip: Always drain water systems before winter storage to prevent freezing damage.

Driving and Handling

Special considerations for camper van operation.

Acceleration: Allow extra distance due to increased weight
Braking: Increased stopping distance, anticipate early
Cornering: Reduced maneuverability, take turns wider
Wind: Susceptible to crosswinds, reduce speed in windy conditions
Parking: Check height clearance, use mirrors effectively
Fuel economy: Expect 15-18 L/100km (13-16 mpg) depending on load

WARNING! Always secure all interior items before driving. Sudden stops can cause shifting cargo.

Storage Solutions

Maximizing limited space in camper configuration.

Care & Cleaning

Exterior and interior maintenance procedures.

Exterior: Wash with mild soap, wax annually, inspect seals. Interior: Vacuum regularly, clean surfaces with damp cloth, treat vinyl and fabrics appropriately.

CAUTION! Do not use high-pressure washers around seals and windows. Avoid abrasive cleaners on acrylic windows.

Safety Information

Fire safety: Install smoke detector, keep fire extinguisher accessible. Carbon monoxide: Never use propane appliances without ventilation. Driving safety: Regular mechanical inspections, proper load distribution.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery charge, fuel level, spark plugs
Poor acceleration	Clutch, fuel system	Inspect clutch wear, check carburetor function
Water pump not working	Power, fuse, pump	Check 12V power, replace fuse, test pump
Propane appliances not lighting	Tank empty, regulator	Check propane level, inspect regulator and lines
Electrical issues	Battery, connections	Test auxiliary battery, check all connections

Emergency: Carry spare tire, basic tools, first aid kit, emergency contacts.

Service: Consult certified Ford service centers for mechanical issues.