1987 Ford F250 Owners Manual PDF

The 1987 Ford F250 is a heavy-duty pickup truck featuring robust construction, powerful engine options including the 5.8L V8 and 7.5L V8, manual or automatic transmission, four-wheel drive capability, durable suspension system, comprehensive instrumentation, and advanced safety features for its time. Below are key sections covering operation, maintenance, specifications, and troubleshooting for this classic American workhorse.

1. Vehicle Overview 2. Instrument Panel 3. Operating Instructions 4. Technical Specifications 5. Maintenance Schedule 6. Fluid Capacities 7. Towing & Hauling 8. Four-Wheel Drive Operation 9. Electrical System 10. Safety Features 11. Troubleshooting Guide

Vehicle Overview

Key components: Heavy-duty chassis, powerful V8 engines, rugged suspension, comprehensive dashboard instrumentation, and durable cargo bed.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	5.8L V8, 7.5L V8 gasoline engines
Transmission	4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Drivetrain	2WD or 4WD configurations
Payload Capacity	Up to 4,000 lbs depending on configuration
Towing Capacity	Up to 10,000 lbs with proper equipment
Fuel System	Electronic fuel injection or carburetor
Braking System	Power-assisted front disc/rear drum brakes
Suspension	Twin-I-Beam front suspension with leaf springs
Bed Length	6.75 ft or 8 ft options
GVWR	8,600 to 10,000 lbs depending on model

Instrument Panel

Standard instrumentation includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, and warning lights.

Speedometer: Shows vehicle speed in mph and km/h
Tachometer: Engine RPM display (if equipped)
Fuel Gauge: Monitors fuel level in tank
Temperature Gauge: Engine coolant temperature
Oil Pressure Gauge: Engine oil pressure monitoring
Warning Lights: Check engine, brake, battery, oil pressure

WARNING! Monitor gauges regularly; address warning lights immediately to prevent damage.

Operating Instructions

Proper starting, driving, and shutdown procedures for optimal performance and longevity.

Starting: Insert key, depress clutch (manual), turn to start position
Warm-up: Allow engine to reach operating temperature before heavy loads
Shifting: Smooth gear changes; avoid grinding gears
4WD Engagement: Stop vehicle before engaging 4WD modes
Parking: Apply parking brake; place transmission in gear (manual) or Park (auto)

CAUTION! Never shift into 4WD on dry pavement; avoid over-revving cold engine.

Technical Specifications

Engine: 5.8L (351 CID) V8 or 7.5L (460 CID) V8
Horsepower: 185-245 hp depending on engine
Torque: 305-380 lb-ft depending on engine
Transmission: 4-speed manual or 3-speed automatic
Wheelbase: 133 inches (regular cab)
Bed Dimensions: 6.75 ft or 8 ft lengths
Fuel Capacity: 19-20 gallons standard tank
Tire Size: LT235/85R16 or similar
Curb Weight: 4,800-5,200 lbs depending on configuration

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance intervals for optimal performance and reliability.

Every 3,000 miles: Oil and filter change, inspect fluids, check tire pressure

Every 6,000 miles: Rotate tires, inspect brakes, check suspension

Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, fuel filter, inspect cooling system

Every 30,000 miles: Change transmission fluid, differential fluid, inspect belts/hoses

Every 60,000 miles: Replace spark plugs, wires, coolant flush

Fluid Capacities

Engine oil: 6 quarts with filter

Coolant: 18-20 quarts total system capacity
Automatic transmission: 12-14 quarts total
Manual transmission: 3-4 quarts
Front differential: 3 pints (4WD models)
Rear differential: 4-5 pints
Transfer case: 2-3 pints (4WD models)
Brake fluid: As needed; DOT 3 recommended

Tip: Use manufacturer-recommended fluids for optimal performance.

Towing & Hauling

Maximum capacities and proper loading procedures.

Check ratings: Verify GVWR and GCWR before loading
Weight distribution: Balance load evenly in bed
Trailer hitch: Use Class III or IV receiver hitch
Brake controller: Required for trailers over 1,500 lbs
Mirrors: Extended mirrors for wide loads
Cooling: Monitor engine temperature when towing heavy loads
Transmission: Use lower gears on steep grades
Braking: Allow extra stopping distance

WARNING! Never exceed rated capacities; improper loading affects handling and braking.

Four-Wheel Drive Operation

Proper use of 2WD, 4WD High, and 4WD Low ranges.

Electrical System

12-volt system with alternator, battery, and comprehensive wiring.

CAUTION! Disconnect battery before electrical work; avoid short circuits.

Safety Features

Seat belts, lighting, braking system, and structural safety elements.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel system, ignition	Check fuel pressure, spark plugs, ignition timing
Overheating	Cooling system	Check coolant level, thermostat, water pump, radiator
Poor fuel economy	Tune-up needed	Replace air filter, spark plugs, check timing
Brake pulsation	Warped rotors	Inspect and replace brake rotors if necessary
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn clutch	Check fluid level, adjust clutch, inspect transmission

Service: Consult qualified mechanic for complex repairs; use genuine Ford parts when possible.

Support: Ford Customer Service Division for technical assistance and parts information.