The 1986 Ford Pickup Repair Manual provides comprehensive guidance for maintaining and repairing Ford F-Series trucks from the 1986 model year. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, and routine maintenance procedures for various engine options including the 4.9L inline-6, 5.0L V8, and 5.8L V8 engines. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.
Technical specifications for 1986 Ford F-Series pickup trucks including engine options, dimensions, and capacities.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Options | 4.9L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8, 6.9L Diesel |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic |
| Wheelbase | 117" (Regular Cab), 133" (SuperCab) |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.5-19.2 gallons depending on model |
| Oil Capacity | 5-6 quarts (varies by engine) |
| Coolant Capacity | 14-16 quarts |
| Gross Vehicle Weight | 4,600-8,800 lbs |
| Bed Length | 6.75 ft or 8 ft |
| Towing Capacity | 5,000-10,000 lbs |
| Payload Capacity | 1,500-5,000 lbs |
Scheduled maintenance intervals and procedures for optimal vehicle performance.
WARNING! Always disconnect battery before performing electrical work. Use proper jack stands when lifting vehicle.
Diagnostic and repair procedures for 1986 Ford pickup engines.
CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before working on cooling system components.
Front disc and rear drum brake service procedures.
Front Brakes: Disc pad replacement, caliper service, rotor machining/replacement
Rear Brakes: Drum brake shoe replacement, wheel cylinder service, adjustment
Master Cylinder: Bench bleeding, installation, system bleeding
Parking Brake: Cable adjustment, mechanism service
Brake Fluid: DOT 3 specification, system flushing procedure
Twin-I-Beam front suspension and recirculating ball steering system maintenance.
Tip: Always check wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.
12-volt electrical system diagnosis and repair.
WARNING! Disconnect battery ground cable before performing electrical repairs to prevent shorts.
Carbureted fuel system maintenance and repair.
Fuel Pump: Mechanical pump testing and replacement
Carburetor: Rochester, Motorcraft models - rebuild procedures
Fuel Lines: Inspection and replacement
Fuel Tank: Removal, cleaning, and installation
Emission Controls: PCV, EGR, and air injection systems
Radiator, water pump, and thermostat service.
Radiator: Flushing, repair, and replacement procedures
Water Pump: Removal and installation steps
Thermostat: Testing and replacement
Hoses: Inspection and replacement intervals
Coolant: Proper mixture and capacity specifications
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Engine won't start | Fuel, spark, or compression issue | Check fuel delivery, ignition system, compression |
| Poor fuel economy | Carburetor adjustment, timing | Adjust carburetor, check ignition timing |
| Overheating | Coolant level, thermostat, water pump | Check coolant, replace thermostat, test water pump |
| Brake pulling | Stuck caliper, contaminated pads | Service calipers, replace brake pads |
| Electrical issues | Bad grounds, corroded connections | Clean connections, check ground wires |
| Transmission slipping | Low fluid, worn bands/clutches | Check fluid level, adjust bands, rebuild if needed |
Diagnostic Tools: Multimeter, compression tester, vacuum gauge recommended
Complete electrical schematics for all 1986 Ford pickup models.
Note: Diagrams show wire colors, gauge sizes, and connection points