1986 Toyota Corolla Service Manual

The 1986 Toyota Corolla Service Manual provides comprehensive maintenance and repair information for the popular compact vehicle. This manual covers all major systems including engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical, and body components. The 1986 Corolla features reliable 1.6L 4-cylinder engines, front-wheel drive configuration, and various trim levels including DX, LE, and SR5 models. Below are essential sections for maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair guidelines.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Safety Precautions 11. Technical Service Bulletins

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical data and dimensions for the 1986 Toyota Corolla.

Specification	Details
Engine Type	1.6L 4A-C/4A-GE 4-cylinder
Horsepower	74-112 hp (depending on model)
Transmission	4/5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic
Fuel System	Carburetor or EFI (SR5 models)
Wheelbase	95.7 inches
Curb Weight	2,100-2,300 lbs
Fuel Capacity	13.2 gallons
Brake System	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Independent front, rigid axle rear
Tire Size	165 SR 13 or 185/70 HR 13

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals for optimal vehicle performance.

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Tire rotation: Every 6,000 miles
Spark plugs: Replace every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Inspect every 60,000 miles, replace at 90,000 miles
Brake fluid: Flush every 2 years or 30,000 miles
Coolant: Replace every 2 years or 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use jack stands when working under vehicle. Never rely solely on hydraulic jacks.

Engine Systems

Comprehensive engine maintenance and repair procedures.

Engine removal and installation: Proper hoist points and procedure
Cylinder head service: Valve adjustment and head gasket replacement
Fuel system: Carburetor adjustment and EFI system diagnostics
Cooling system: Radiator flush and thermostat replacement
Ignition system: Distributor timing and spark plug gap specifications
Exhaust system: Manifold and catalytic converter service

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before performing cooling system work.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual Transmission: Fluid type GL-4 75W-90, capacity 2.1 quarts
Automatic Transmission: Fluid type Dexron II, capacity 5.8 quarts
Clutch System: Pedal free play 0.2-0.6 inches, hydraulic fluid DOT 3
Drive Axles: CV joint inspection and boot replacement procedure
Differential: Gear oil type GL-5 80W-90, capacity 1.2 quarts
Shift Linkage: Adjustment procedures for precise shifting

Brake System

Complete brake service including hydraulic systems and components.

Front Brakes: Disc pad replacement, rotor minimum thickness 0.394 inches. Rear Brakes: Drum shoe replacement, drum maximum diameter 7.87 inches.

Brake bleeding sequence: Right rear, left rear, right front, left front. Master cylinder push rod clearance: 0.020-0.059 inches. Parking brake adjustment: 5-7 clicks at handle.

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension components and steering system service.

Strut replacement: Proper spring compressor usage required
Ball joint inspection: Check for play and wear patterns
Tie rod ends: Replacement and alignment procedures
Wheel bearing adjustment: Proper pre-load specifications
Steering gear: Manual rack and pinion service procedures

Tip: Always perform wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

Wiring diagrams and electrical component service.

Battery: Maintenance-free type, 12V 45AH capacity
Alternator: Output 45-55 amps, brush replacement procedure
Starter: Solenoid testing and brush replacement
Ignition system: Coil resistance specifications
Lighting: Headlight adjustment and bulb replacement
Instrument cluster: Gauge testing and replacement
Fuse box: Location and amperage ratings

WARNING! Disconnect battery negative terminal before performing electrical work.

Body & Interior

Body panel repair and interior component service.

Door adjustment: Hinge and striker plate procedures. Window regulator: Manual and power window service. Seat mechanisms: Track repair and upholstery replacement. Dashboard: Component removal and installation. Weatherstripping: Replacement procedures for doors and windows.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and diagnostic procedures.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel pump, ignition coil, starter	Check fuel pressure, spark, battery voltage
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, timing, carburetor	Replace filter, adjust timing, clean carburetor
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Resurface or replace rotors, install new pads
Steering wander	Alignment, worn components	Perform alignment, check tie rods and ball joints
Electrical issues	Ground connections, alternator	Clean grounds, test alternator output

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures for all service work.

Always use jack stands, wear safety glasses, disconnect battery for electrical work, use proper lifting techniques, work in well-ventilated areas, and follow torque specifications precisely.

CAUTION! Never work under vehicle supported only by jack. Always use jack stands.

Technical Service Bulletins

Manufacturer updates and common service recommendations.

TSB 86-01: Carburetor float level adjustment for cold start issues. TSB 86-05: Transmission shift linkage adjustment for smoother shifting. TSB 86-12: Brake caliper pin lubrication procedure to prevent sticking. TSB 86-18: Alternator wiring harness update for improved charging.

Service Support: Contact Toyota Technical Assistance at 1-800-331-4331 for additional information.