1987 Ford F150 Haynes Manual

The 1987 Ford F150 Haynes Manual provides comprehensive repair and maintenance information for the 1987 Ford F-150 pickup truck. This manual covers engine systems (4.9L, 5.0L, 5.8L, 7.5L), transmission, brakes, suspension, electrical systems, bodywork, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedules 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission & Drivetrain 5. Brake Systems 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical Systems 8. Body & Interior 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Safety Precautions 11. Wiring Diagrams

Vehicle Specifications

Key technical specifications for the 1987 Ford F150 including engine options, dimensions, and capacities.

SpecificationDetails
Engine Options4.9L I6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8, 7.5L V8
Transmission4-speed manual, 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic, 4-speed automatic
Wheelbase116.8" (regular cab), 133" (SuperCab)
Fuel Capacity16.5 gallons (standard), 19 gallons (optional)
Payload Capacity1,550 - 2,450 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity5,000 - 8,000 lbs with proper equipment
Brake SystemFront disc, rear drum with power assist
SuspensionIndependent front with coil springs, rear leaf springs
Electrical12-volt negative ground system
Oil Capacity5 quarts (with filter change)

Maintenance Schedules

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

  1. Every 3,000 miles: Change engine oil and filter
  2. Every 6,000 miles: Inspect brakes, check fluid levels, rotate tires
  3. Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, check spark plugs
  4. Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, inspect timing chain
  5. Every 60,000 miles: Replace coolant, inspect fuel system

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and follow proper disposal procedures for used fluids.

Engine Systems

Detailed procedures for engine maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting.

Transmission & Drivetrain

Service procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case, and differential.

  1. Manual Transmission: Clutch replacement, shift linkage adjustment, fluid changes
  2. Automatic Transmission: Fluid and filter service, band adjustments, vacuum modulator
  3. Transfer Case: 4WD systems service, linkage adjustment, fluid changes
  4. Differential: Gear oil replacement, bearing preload adjustment
  5. Driveshaft: U-joint replacement, balance checking

CAUTION! Always support vehicle securely with jack stands when working underneath.

Brake Systems

Complete brake system service including disc brakes, drum brakes, and hydraulic systems.

ComponentService Procedure
Front Disc BrakesPad replacement, rotor resurfacing, caliper service
Rear Drum BrakesShoe replacement, drum resurfacing, wheel cylinder service
Master CylinderBench bleeding, replacement procedure
Brake LinesInspection for corrosion, flare fitting procedures
Parking BrakeCable adjustment, mechanism service

Suspension & Steering

Front and rear suspension service, steering gear adjustment, and alignment procedures.

  1. Front Suspension: Ball joint replacement, control arm bushings, coil spring service
  2. Rear Suspension: Leaf spring service, shackle replacement, U-bolt torque
  3. Steering Gear: Manual and power steering systems, linkage adjustment
  4. Shock Absorbers: Replacement procedures, mounting hardware inspection
  5. Wheel Alignment: Toe adjustment, camber specifications, caster settings

Electrical Systems

Complete electrical system diagnosis and repair including charging, starting, and lighting systems.

Body & Interior

Body panel repair, interior component service, and trim installation procedures.

  1. Body Panels: Door adjustment, hood alignment, tailgate service
  2. Glass & Windows: Window regulator service, glass replacement
  3. Seats & Upholstery: Seat track repair, vinyl and fabric care
  4. Dash Components:Instrument panel removal, heater control service
  5. Exterior Trim: Molding installation, emblem replacement

Tip: Use proper trim removal tools to avoid damaging plastic components.

Troubleshooting Guide

Common problems and solutions for the 1987 Ford F150.

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel delivery, ignition failureCheck fuel pressure, test spark, verify timing
Poor fuel economyDirty air filter, timing offReplace air filter, check ignition timing
Brake pullingStuck caliper, contaminated padsInspect calipers, replace brake components
Steering wanderWorn components, alignmentCheck ball joints, perform alignment
Electrical issuesGround connections, alternatorClean battery terminals, test charging system

Safety Precautions

Essential safety procedures when working on your vehicle.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety procedures can result in serious injury or death.

Wiring Diagrams

Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems including engine management, lighting, and accessories.

Detailed wiring diagrams available in full manual covering:

  1. Starting and charging circuits
  2. Lighting systems (headlights, taillights, turn signals)
  3. Instrument cluster and gauges
  4. Engine management systems
  5. Accessory circuits (radio, power windows, etc.)

Note: Refer to specific circuit diagrams when diagnosing electrical problems.

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