1987 El Camino Owners Manual

The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino is a unique car-truck hybrid featuring a passenger car front end with a cargo bed in the rear. This fifth-generation model combines comfort with utility, offering V6 and V8 engine options, rear-wheel drive, and versatile cargo capabilities. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Identification 3. Instrument Panel 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Maintenance Schedule 7. Fluid Capacities 8. Safety Features 9. Towing and Loading 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Car-like front cabin with truck-style cargo bed, available V6 and V8 engines, comfortable interior with modern amenities for 1987.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	4.3L V6 or 5.0L V8 engine
Transmission	3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
Cargo Bed	6-foot steel bed with 1,000 lb capacity
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum with power assist
Seating	Bench seat with cloth or vinyl upholstery
Instrumentation	Speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature, oil pressure
Entertainment	AM/FM stereo with cassette player
Climate Control	Manual heating and air conditioning

Vehicle Identification

Locate your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the driver's side dashboard visible through the windshield.

VIN Plate: Located on top of dashboard near windshield.
Engine Code: 8th character indicates engine type.
Trim Level: Base, Classic, or Super Sport models available.
Production Date: Located on driver's door jamb sticker.

IMPORTANT! Keep VIN recorded for service and registration purposes.

Instrument Panel

Familiarize yourself with all gauges, warning lights, and controls.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in MPH.
Tachometer: Engine RPM (if equipped).
Fuel Gauge: Fuel level indicator.
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature.
Oil Pressure: Engine oil pressure warning light.
Brake Warning: Parking brake or brake system issue.
Alternator: Charging system warning light.

CAUTION! Address warning lights immediately to prevent damage.

Specifications

Wheelbase: 117 inches
Overall Length: 206 inches
Curb Weight: 3,400-3,600 lbs
Bed Dimensions: 6 ft long x 4 ft wide
Payload Capacity: 1,000 lbs
Towing Capacity: 2,000 lbs (with proper equipment)
Fuel Capacity: 18 gallons
Transmission: 3-speed automatic or 4-speed manual
Brakes: Power front disc, rear drum
Suspension: Independent front, leaf spring rear

Controls and Operation

Master vehicle controls for safe and efficient operation.

Starting Procedure: Insert key, depress brake, shift to Park/Neutral, turn ignition.

Transmission: P-Park, R-Reverse, N-Neutral, D-Drive, 2-Second, 1-First gear.

Climate Control: Temperature dial, fan speed, vent selection.

Lighting: Headlight switch, high beams, turn signals, hazard lights.

Wipers: Variable speed control with washer function.

Maintenance Schedule

Follow recommended service intervals for optimal performance.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change
Every 6,000 miles: Tire rotation, fluid checks
Every 12,000 miles: Air filter replacement
Every 30,000 miles: Spark plugs, fuel filter
Every 50,000 miles: Transmission fluid, coolant
Every 2 years: Brake fluid flush

Tip: Severe driving conditions may require more frequent service.

Fluid Capacities

Use only recommended fluids and capacities.

Fluid	Capacity	Type
Engine Oil	4-5 quarts	10W-30
Coolant	12 quarts	50/50 antifreeze
Transmission	10 quarts	Dexron II
Fuel Tank	18 gallons	Unleaded 87 octane
Brake Fluid	As needed	DOT 3
Power Steering	As needed	Power steering fluid

WARNING! Use correct fluids to prevent damage.

Safety Features

Your El Camino includes several safety systems.

Brakes: Dual-circuit hydraulic system with power assist.

Seat Belts: Lap and shoulder belts for all occupants.

Lighting: Headlights, taillights, brake lights, turn signals.

Mirrors: Inside rearview and outside mirrors.

Parking Brake: Foot-operated with release handle.

Towing and Loading

Proper techniques for cargo and towing operations.

Distribute weight evenly in cargo bed.
Do not exceed 1,000 lb payload capacity.
Secure all cargo with tie-downs.
For towing, use proper hitch and wiring.
Do not exceed 2,000 lb towing capacity.
Check trailer brakes if required.

CAUTION! Overloading can cause handling issues and damage.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Battery, fuel, ignition	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Overheating	Coolant, thermostat	Check coolant level, radiator, water pump
Poor fuel economy	Tires, alignment, tune-up	Check tire pressure, wheel alignment, spark plugs
Brake issues	Fluid, pads, drums	Check brake fluid, pad/drum wear, lines
Electrical problems	Battery, alternator	Test battery, check alternator output

Service: Contact Chevrolet dealer for professional service.

Emergency: Keep emergency kit in cargo bed.