1986 S10 Manual

The 1986 Chevrolet S10 is a compact pickup truck featuring a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine, 5-speed manual transmission, rear-wheel drive, standard cab configuration, and payload capacity of 1,500 lbs. Below are key sections covering specifications, maintenance, operation, troubleshooting, and service procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Operating Instructions 4. Engine System 5. Transmission & Drivetrain 6. Braking System 7. Electrical System 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: 2.5L L4 engine, 5-speed manual transmission, standard cab, 6-foot bed.

SpecificationDetails
Engine2.5L 4-cylinder, 92 hp @ 4400 rpm
Transmission5-speed manual, floor-shift
DrivetrainRear-wheel drive
Fuel Capacity13.2 gallons
Bed Length6 feet
Payload Capacity1,500 lbs
Towing Capacity2,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
Wheelbase108.3 inches
Curb Weight2,800 lbs
Fuel Economy22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

  1. Oil Change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
  2. Air Filter: Replace every 15,000 miles
  3. Spark Plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
  4. Coolant Flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
  5. Brake Fluid: Check every 15,000 miles
  6. Tire Rotation: Every 6,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Disconnect battery before electrical work.

Operating Instructions

Proper operation procedures for daily use.

  1. Starting: Depress clutch fully, turn ignition key
  2. Shifting: Smooth clutch engagement between gears
  3. Parking: Engage parking brake, shift to reverse (manual transmission)
  4. Instrument Panel: Monitor fuel, temperature, and warning lights
  5. Climate Control: Adjust fan speed and temperature dials

CAUTION! Never shift without fully depressing clutch. Avoid riding clutch pedal.

Engine System

Transmission & Drivetrain

5-speed manual transmission with hydraulic clutch system.

Gear Ratios: 1st: 3.76, 2nd: 2.18, 3rd: 1.44, 4th: 1.00, 5th: 0.73, Reverse: 3.67

Differential: 3.42 ratio standard. Clutch: 9.5-inch diaphragm spring. Driveshaft: Two-piece with center support bearing.

Braking System

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes with power assist.

  1. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 recommended
  2. Pad Replacement: Front pads every 30,000 miles
  3. Drum Adjustment: Manual adjustment required
  4. Parking Brake: Cable-operated rear brakes

Tip: Check brake fluid level monthly. Listen for grinding noises indicating worn pads.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 60-amp alternator.

  1. Battery: Group 74, 550 CCA
  2. Alternator: 60-amp output
  3. Starter: Direct drive 1.4 kW
  4. Fuses: Panel under dashboard
  5. Lights: Sealed beam headlights

WARNING! Disconnect battery before electrical repairs. Avoid short circuits.

Fuel System

13.2 gallon tank with mechanical fuel pump.

  1. Fuel Filter: Replace every 12,000 miles
  2. Carburetor: Rochester 2SE feedback carburetor
  3. Fuel Pump: Mechanical, camshaft-driven
  4. Fuel Lines: Steel with rubber connections
  5. Evaporative System: Charcoal canister emissions control

CAUTION! No smoking near fuel system work. Use proper fuel container.

Cooling System

Pressurized system with mechanical fan and radiator.

Troubleshooting Guide

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or battery issueCheck fuel delivery, spark plugs, battery charge
Hard shiftingClutch or linkage problemAdjust clutch cable, check linkage wear
OverheatingCoolant leak or thermostatCheck coolant level, replace thermostat
Brake pullingCaliber or brake fluidInspect calipers, flush brake fluid
Electrical issuesBattery or alternatorTest battery, check alternator output

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Consult certified Chevrolet technician for complex repairs.

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