1988 Bronco 2 Service Manual

The 1988 Bronco 2 Service Manual provides comprehensive technical information for the Ford Bronco II compact SUV. This manual covers maintenance procedures, troubleshooting, repair instructions, and specifications for the 2.9L V6 engine, manual and automatic transmissions, 4WD system, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, and body components. Below are key sections for general information, maintenance, engine, transmission, drivetrain, suspension, brakes, steering, electrical, and body.

1. General Information 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Systems 4. Transmission 5. Drivetrain & 4WD 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Brake System 8. Electrical System 9. Body & Interior 10. Specifications 11. Troubleshooting

General Information

Vehicle identification, manual organization, safety precautions, and service procedures.

ComponentDescription
VIN LocationDriver's side dashboard visible through windshield
Model Year1988
Engine Options2.9L V6 (standard)
Transmission5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
DrivetrainPart-time 4WD with manual locking hubs
Payload Capacity1,150 lbs
Towing Capacity2,000 lbs (with proper equipment)

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended service intervals and procedures.

  1. Every 3,000 miles: Change engine oil and filter
  2. Every 6,000 miles: Rotate tires, inspect brakes
  3. Every 15,000 miles: Replace air filter, check fluid levels
  4. Every 30,000 miles: Replace fuel filter, inspect belts/hoses
  5. Every 60,000 miles: Replace spark plugs, check timing

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before electrical work. Use jack stands when lifting vehicle.

Engine Systems

2.9L V6 engine service and repair procedures.

  1. Engine removal and installation
  2. Cylinder head service and valve adjustment
  3. Timing belt replacement procedure
  4. Fuel system: carburetor and fuel injection
  5. Cooling system maintenance
  6. Exhaust system components

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool before opening cooling system. Use proper torque specifications.

Transmission

Drivetrain & 4WD

Transfer case, driveshafts, axles, and 4WD system components.

Transfer Case: Borg-Warner 13-50 part-time 4WD

Front Axle: Dana 28 with manual locking hubs

Rear Axle: Ford 7.5-inch ring gear

4WD Operation: Shift on-the-fly capability (under 55 mph). Manual Hub Operation: Rotate to LOCK/UNLOCK positions.

Suspension & Steering

Twin-Traction Beam front suspension, power steering system.

  1. Front suspension: Coil springs, radius arms
  2. Rear suspension: Leaf springs
  3. Shock absorber replacement
  4. Power steering pump and gearbox
  5. Alignment specifications and procedures

Tip: Check ball joints and tie rod ends during tire rotation.

Brake System

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, parking brake system.

  1. Brake pad and shoe replacement
  2. Rotor and drum resurfacing specifications
  3. Master cylinder service
  4. Brake bleeding procedure
  5. Parking brake adjustment

WARNING! Always replace brake components in axle sets. Test brakes after service.

Electrical System

Charging, starting, lighting, and accessory systems.

Battery: Group 58, 12V 550 CCA

Alternator: 65-amp output

Starter: Direct drive type

Wiring diagrams, fuse panel locations, bulb specifications, instrument cluster service.

Body & Interior

Body panels, glass, seats, and trim components.

Door adjustment, window regulator service, seat removal, dashboard components, HVAC system service.

Specifications

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Engine won't startFuel, spark, or compression issueCheck fuel pressure, spark plugs, compression test
4WD not engagingVacuum lines or hubsInspect vacuum lines to hubs; check hub operation
Brake pullCalipers or fluidCheck stuck calipers; flush brake fluid
Transmission slippingFluid level or bandsCheck fluid level; adjust bands if automatic
Electrical issuesGrounds or batteryCheck battery connections; inspect ground straps

Technical Support: Ford Motor Company Service Department

Parts: Genuine Ford replacement parts recommended

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