1987 Dodge W250 Shop Manual

The 1987 Dodge W250 Shop Manual provides comprehensive service and repair information for the Dodge W250 4x4 pickup truck. This manual covers engine systems, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and body components. Below are key sections for maintenance procedures, specifications, troubleshooting, and repair instructions.

1. General Information 2. Engine Systems 3. Transmission & Drivetrain 4. Suspension & Steering 5. Brake Systems 6. Electrical Systems 7. Body & Interior 8. Maintenance Schedule 9. Specifications 10. Troubleshooting 11. Wiring Diagrams

General Information

Vehicle identification, manual organization, safety precautions, and general service procedures.

Component	Description
VIN Location	Driver side dashboard visible through windshield
Model Year	1987
Vehicle Type	4x4 Pickup Truck
Gross Vehicle Weight	8,500 lbs
Payload Capacity	2,500 lbs
Wheelbase	131 inches
Bed Length	8 feet

Engine Systems

Service procedures for engine components and systems.

Engine Identification: 5.2L V8 (318 CID) or 5.9L V8 (360 CID)
Cooling System: Radiator capacity 18 quarts, thermostat opening 195°F
Fuel System: Carter BBD 2-barrel carburetor, mechanical fuel pump
Ignition System: Electronic ignition, distributor timing
Exhaust System: Cast iron manifolds, single exhaust

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before working on electrical systems. Use proper jack stands when lifting vehicle.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Manual and automatic transmission service, transfer case, and axle procedures.

Transmission Options: 4-speed manual (NP435) or 3-speed automatic (A727)
Transfer Case: NP208 part-time 4WD
Front Axle: Dana 44 with 3.54:1 or 4.10:1 ratios
Rear Axle: Dana 60 full-floating
Driveshaft: Two-piece with center support bearing

CAUTION! Transfer case must be in 2WD when towing or operating on dry pavement.

Suspension & Steering

Front Suspension: Solid axle with leaf springs, 2,900 lb capacity
Rear Suspension: Leaf springs, 5,300 lb capacity
Steering Gear: Saginaw recirculating ball, 24:1 ratio
Power Steering: Integral hydraulic type, 1,500 psi
Shock Absorbers: Front and rear telescopic hydraulic
Wheel Alignment: Caster 2°-4°, Camber 0°-1°, Toe-in 1/16"

Brake Systems

Hydraulic brake system service and maintenance.

Front Brakes: Disc brakes, 12.25" rotors, single piston calipers

Rear Brakes: Drum brakes, 12" x 2.5" shoes

Master Cylinder: Dual reservoir, 1.125" bore

Parking Brake: Mechanical, rear drum actuation

Brake Fluid: DOT 3, system capacity 32 oz

Electrical Systems

Battery, charging, starting, and accessory systems.

Battery: 12V, 65 amp-hour, negative ground
Alternator: 78 amp output, internal regulator
Starter: 12V, 1.4 kW gear reduction type
Fuse Panel: Under dashboard, 14 fuses
Lighting: Sealed beam headlights, dual filament bulbs

Tip: Always disconnect battery ground cable when welding on vehicle.

Body & Interior

Body structure, trim, and interior component service.

Cab Construction: All-steel, welded construction
Bed: Steel floor with wood planks (optional)
Doors: Manual windows and locks standard
Seats: Bench seat, vinyl or cloth upholstery
Instrument Panel: Analog gauges, 85 mph speedometer
HVAC System: Manual temperature controls

WARNING! Use proper support when working under raised bed or body components.

Maintenance Schedule

Routine maintenance intervals and procedures.

Service	Interval	Procedure
Oil Change	3,000 miles	5 quarts 10W-30, replace filter
Coolant	30,000 miles	Drain and refill with ethylene glycol
Transmission Fluid	15,000 miles	Check level, change at 30,000 miles
Transfer Case	15,000 miles	Check ATF level
Differential	30,000 miles	Change gear oil, check for wear
Brake Fluid	Yearly	Check level, inspect for contamination

Specifications

Engine: 5.2L V8 (318 CID) - 140 hp @ 3600 rpm, 265 lb-ft @ 2000 rpm
Transmission: 4-speed manual (1st 6.69:1, 4th 1.00:1) or 3-speed automatic
Fuel Capacity: 35 gallons
Tire Size: LT235/85R16
Turning Circle: 47 feet
Approach Angle: 32 degrees
Departure Angle: 23 degrees

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Ignition, fuel, or battery	Check spark, fuel delivery, battery voltage
Poor fuel economy	Carburetor, timing, brakes	Adjust carburetor, check timing, inspect brake drag
4WD not engaging	Transfer case linkage	Lubricate and adjust shift linkage
Steering wander	Alignment, ball joints	Check wheel alignment, inspect steering components
Brake pull	Calipers, hoses, alignment	Inspect brake components, check front end alignment

Technical Support: Contact Dodge dealership or certified mechanic for complex repairs.

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems including starting, charging, lighting, and accessory circuits. Diagrams show wire colors, connector locations, and component identification.

Color Codes: BLK-Black, BLU-Blue, BRN-Brown, GRN-Green, ORG-Orange, PPL-Purple, RED-Red, WHT-White, YEL-Yellow

Note: Always reference specific diagram for circuit being serviced. Use DVOM for voltage and continuity testing.