1988 Bronco 2 Manual

The 1988 Ford Bronco II is a compact SUV featuring 4-wheel drive capability, 2.9L V6 engine, 5-speed manual or optional automatic transmission, power steering, front disc/rear drum brakes, and seating for up to 5 passengers. Below are key sections covering specifications, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and technical details.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Controls and Instrument Panel 3. Starting and Operating 4. 4WD System Operation 5. Routine Maintenance 6. Fluid Specifications 7. Tire Information 8. Electrical System 9. Troubleshooting Guide 10. Safety Information

Vehicle Specifications

Key components: 2.9L EFI V6 engine, manual/automatic transmission, 4-wheel drive system, power-assisted steering and brakes.

Specification	Details
Engine	2.9L V6 EFI, 140 hp @ 4600 rpm
Transmission	5-speed manual (M5OD-R1) or 4-speed automatic
Transfer Case	BorgWarner 13-50 electric shift
Drivetrain	Part-time 4WD with 2WD/4H/4L modes
Fuel Capacity	23 gallons
Towing Capacity	Up to 5,000 lbs with proper equipment
Wheelbase	94.0 inches
Overall Length	153.2 inches
Curb Weight	Approx. 3,450 lbs
Payload Capacity	1,250 lbs

Controls and Instrument Panel

Main controls: Ignition switch, gear selector, 4WD selector, climate controls, lighting switches.

Instrument Cluster: Speedometer, tachometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, warning lights
Steering Column: Ignition, turn signal, wiper controls, tilt wheel adjustment
Center Console: 4WD selector, transmission shifter, parking brake
Dash Panel: HVAC controls, radio, accessory switches

WARNING! Familiarize yourself with all controls before operating vehicle.

Starting and Operating

Normal starting procedure and basic operation guidelines.

Ensure parking brake is engaged and transmission in neutral
Turn ignition key to start position; release when engine starts
Allow engine to warm up for 30-60 seconds before driving
Select appropriate gear and release parking brake
Use smooth acceleration and braking for optimal performance

CAUTION! Do not operate vehicle if warning lights remain illuminated.

4WD System Operation

2WD Mode: Normal driving on dry pavement for best fuel economy
4H Mode: For slippery conditions at normal speeds
4L Mode: For extreme conditions requiring maximum traction
Shifting Procedure: Come to complete stop, shift transmission to neutral, then select 4H or 4L

WARNING! Do not use 4WD on dry pavement as it may damage drivetrain.

Routine Maintenance

Access maintenance schedule via owner's manual. Basic maintenance intervals:

Service	Interval	Procedure
Oil Change	3,000 miles	Replace oil and filter
Air Filter	15,000 miles	Inspect and replace if dirty
Spark Plugs	30,000 miles	Replace with Motorcraft AWSF-42C
Coolant	30,000 miles	Drain and refill with proper mixture
Brake Fluid	30,000 miles	Inspect and replace if contaminated

Fluid Specifications

Recommended fluids and capacities for optimal performance.

Engine Oil: 5W-30, 5 quarts with filter change
Transmission Fluid: Mercon ATF for automatic, 80W-90 gear oil for manual
Transfer Case: Mercon ATF, 2.5 pints
Front/Rear Axle: 80W-90 gear oil, 2.5 pints each
Coolant: Ethylene glycol mixture, 10 quarts
Brake Fluid: DOT 3

Tip: Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids.

Tire Information

Standard tire size: P225/75R15. Proper inflation and maintenance critical for safety.

Check tire pressure monthly when tires are cold
Rotate tires every 6,000 miles for even wear
Inspect for damage, uneven wear, or embedded objects
Replace tires when tread depth reaches 2/32 inch
Maintain proper alignment to extend tire life

WARNING! Underinflated tires can cause overheating and failure.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 65-amp alternator and maintenance-free battery.

Battery: Group 58, 550 CCA. Fuses: Located in fuse panel under dash. Bulbs: Headlights 4651, brake/tail 2057, turn signal 2057NA.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Dead battery, fuel issue, ignition problem	Check battery connections, fuel level, spark plugs
Overheating	Low coolant, thermostat, water pump	Check coolant level, inspect cooling system
4WD not engaging	Shift motor, fuse, wiring	Check 4WD fuse, inspect shift motor connections
Brake vibration	Warped rotors, worn pads	Inspect brake components, replace as needed
Electrical issues	Blown fuse, bad ground	Check fuse panel, inspect ground connections

Service: Contact authorized Ford dealer for complex issues.

Safety Information

Always wear seat belts. Children should be in rear seat with proper restraints. Maintain safe following distance. Never drive under influence of alcohol or drugs. Regular maintenance is essential for safe operation.

EMERGENCY: Keep emergency kit with flashlight, flares, first aid supplies.