1988 Ford Bronco II Repair Manual PDF

The 1988 Ford Bronco II Repair Manual provides comprehensive service and repair information for the 1988 model year Ford Bronco II. This manual covers engine systems (2.9L V6), transmission (manual and automatic), drivetrain, suspension, steering, brakes, electrical systems, body components, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, troubleshooting, maintenance schedules, and repair procedures.

Vehicle Specifications

Technical specifications for the 1988 Ford Bronco II including engine, transmission, dimensions, and capacities.

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

1. Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
2. Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
3. Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
4. Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
5. Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
6. Brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 24 months
7. Transfer case fluid: Every 30,000 miles
8. Front/rear differential: Every 30,000 miles

WARNING! Always use recommended fluids and follow torque specifications.

Engine Repair

Procedures for 2.9L V6 engine service and repair.

1. Compression test: Remove spark plugs, test each cylinder (125-150 psi normal)
2. Timing belt replacement: Align marks, tension properly
3. Valve adjustment: Cold engine, set clearance to 0.014-0.016 inches
4. Fuel injection service: Check pressure (35-45 psi), clean injectors
5. Ignition system: Replace cap, rotor, wires as needed

CAUTION! Disconnect battery before electrical work. Allow engine to cool before servicing.

Transmission Service

• Manual Transmission: M5OD-R1 5-speed, fluid capacity 3.5 quarts
• Automatic Transmission: A4LD 4-speed, fluid capacity 10 quarts
• Transfer Case: Borg-Warner 13-50, fluid capacity 2.5 pints
• Fluid Type: Mercon ATF for automatic and transfer case
• Shift Points: 1-2: 10-15 mph, 2-3: 20-25 mph, 3-4: 35-40 mph
• Common Issues: Shift solenoid failure, valve body wear, clutch pack wear

Brake System

Hydraulic brake system service and repair procedures.

Front Brakes: Disc brakes, 10.9 inch rotor, single piston caliper

Rear Brakes: Drum brakes, 9.0 inch drum, self-adjusting

Brake Pad Replacement: Remove caliper, compress piston, install new pads. Rotor Resurfacing: Machine to minimum thickness 0.810 inches. Brake Bleeding: Start from farthest wheel, use DOT 3 fluid. Parking Brake: Adjust cable at equalizer.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 65-amp alternator.

1. Battery testing: Load test, check specific gravity (1.265 fully charged)
2. Alternator output: 13.5-14.5 volts at 2000 rpm
3. Starter draw: 150-200 amps maximum
4. Fuse panel: Located under dashboard, 15-30 amp fuses
5. Wiring diagrams: Color-coded for circuit identification

Tip: Use digital multimeter for accurate electrical diagnostics.

Suspension & Steering

Twin-Traction Beam front suspension with recirculating ball steering.

1. Front suspension: Twin I-beam with coil springs
2. Rear suspension: Leaf spring with staggered shocks
3. Steering gear: Recirculating ball, 3.5 turns lock-to-lock
4. Alignment specs: Camber +0.5° to +1.5°, Caster +2.5° to +3.5°
5. Toe-in: 1/16 to 1/8 inch
6. Ball joints: Check for wear every 15,000 miles
7. Tire pressure: 30 psi front, 35 psi rear
8. Shock replacement: Always replace in pairs

WARNING! Use jack stands when working under vehicle. Never rely on jack alone.

Cooling System

Pressurized cooling system with 15 psi radiator cap.

Fuel System

Electronic fuel injection with in-tank pump.

CAUTION! Relieve fuel pressure before servicing. No smoking near fuel system components.

Troubleshooting Guide

Reset: Disconnect battery for 15 minutes to reset computer.

Service: Ford dealership or qualified repair facility recommended for complex issues.