1987 F250 460 Manual Gear Ratios

The 1987 Ford F250 equipped with the 460 cubic inch V8 engine and manual transmission features specific gear ratios designed for optimal performance and towing capability. Below are key sections covering transmission specifications, gear ratio details, performance characteristics, maintenance guidelines, and troubleshooting information.

1. Transmission Specifications 2. Gear Ratio Details 3. Performance Characteristics 4. Maintenance Guidelines 5. Troubleshooting 6. Technical Specifications

Transmission Specifications

The 1987 F250 with 460 engine typically came with the BorgWarner T19 4-speed manual transmission, known for its durability and heavy-duty towing capacity.

Component	Specification
Transmission Model	BorgWarner T19
Number of Gears	4-speed manual
First Gear	6.32:1 (granny low)
Second Gear	3.09:1
Third Gear	1.69:1
Fourth Gear	1.00:1 (direct drive)
Reverse Gear	7.44:1
Transfer Case	BorgWarner 1345 (4WD models)

Gear Ratio Details

Detailed breakdown of each gear ratio and its intended use for the 1987 F250 460 manual transmission.

First Gear (6.32:1): Ultra-low "granny" gear for heavy towing and extreme off-road situations
Second Gear (3.09:1): Moderate acceleration gear for normal driving from stop
Third Gear (1.69:1): Cruising gear for moderate speeds and light loads
Fourth Gear (1.00:1): Direct drive for highway cruising and fuel efficiency
Reverse (7.44:1): High torque reverse for maneuvering with heavy loads

NOTE: The T19 transmission features non-synchronized first gear, requiring complete stop before engagement.

Performance Characteristics

How the gear ratios affect vehicle performance with the 460 V8 engine.

Towing Capacity: 8,000-10,000 lbs depending on configuration
Engine RPM at 65 mph: Approximately 2,800 RPM in 4th gear
Optimal Shift Points: 2,500-3,000 RPM for normal driving
Fuel Economy: 8-12 MPG depending on load and driving conditions
Clutch Type: 11-inch heavy-duty diaphragm spring clutch

Maintenance Guidelines

Proper maintenance procedures for the manual transmission system.

Fluid Type: Use 80W-90 GL-5 gear oil
Fluid Capacity: 3.5 quarts for transmission, 2.5 quarts for transfer case
Change Interval: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Clutch Adjustment: Check free play every 15,000 miles
Shift Linkage: Lubricate every oil change

WARNING! Use only specified gear oil to prevent synchronizer damage.

Troubleshooting

Common issues and solutions for the manual transmission system.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard shifting	Low fluid/worn synchronizers	Check fluid level; replace if contaminated
Gear grinding	Clutch not disengaging fully	Adjust clutch linkage; check master cylinder
Transmission noise	Worn bearings/low fluid	Inspect fluid level and condition
Jumping out of gear	Worn shift forks/detents	Requires transmission disassembly
Fluid leaks	Worn seals/gaskets	Replace input/output shaft seals

Technical Specifications

Engine: 460 CID (7.5L) V8
Horsepower: 245 HP @ 4,000 RPM
Torque: 380 lb-ft @ 2,800 RPM
Transmission Type: BorgWarner T19 4-speed manual
Clutch Diameter: 11 inches
Final Drive Ratio: 3.55:1 or 4.10:1 depending on axle option
Fluid Capacity: 3.5 quarts 80W-90 gear oil