1988 Ford F150 Automatic User Manual

The 1988 Ford F150 is a full-size pickup truck featuring automatic transmission, 4.9L inline-6 engine or optional 5.0L/5.8L V8 engines, rear-wheel drive with optional four-wheel drive, power steering, power brakes, AM/FM stereo system, air conditioning, and comprehensive instrumentation. Below are key sections for safety, features, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Vehicle Specifications 3. Controls and Instrumentation 4. Starting and Operating 5. Automatic Transmission 6. Routine Maintenance 7. Fluid Specifications 8. Towing and Payload 9. Safety Features 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Automatic transmission, engine options, cab configurations, bed lengths, and standard equipment.

Feature	Description
Engine Options	4.9L I-6, 5.0L V8, 5.8L V8
Transmission	3-speed automatic (C6)
Drive Configuration	2WD or optional 4WD
Cab Styles	Regular Cab, SuperCab
Bed Lengths	6.75 ft, 8 ft
GVWR	4,600 to 6,050 lbs
Fuel Capacity	16.5 or 19 gallons
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum
Suspension	Independent front, leaf spring rear
Steering	Power-assisted recirculating ball

Vehicle Specifications

Engine: 4.9L I-6 (145 hp), 5.0L V8 (185 hp), 5.8L V8 (210 hp)
Transmission: 3-speed C6 automatic
Wheelbase: 116.8" (Regular Cab), 138.8" (SuperCab)
Length: 194.6" to 216.6"
Width: 79.3"
Height: 72.8" to 74.8"
Payload Capacity: 1,550 to 2,470 lbs
Towing Capacity: 5,000 to 7,500 lbs
Fuel Economy: 12-15 mpg city, 15-18 mpg highway

Controls and Instrumentation

Dashboard layout includes speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, oil pressure gauge, ammeter, and warning lights.

Steering Column: Ignition switch, turn signal lever, tilt steering (optional).

Center Console: Automatic transmission selector (P-R-N-D-2-1), climate controls, radio.

Warning Lights: Brake, oil pressure, battery, check engine, seat belt reminder.

Starting and Operating

Daily operation procedures for normal driving conditions.

Ensure parking brake is engaged and transmission in Park.
Insert key, turn to ON position, wait for warning lights to cycle.
Turn to START position, release when engine starts.
Release parking brake, select Drive or appropriate gear.
Accelerate smoothly, avoid sudden starts and stops.

WARNING! Never shift to Park while vehicle is moving. Always come to complete stop before shifting.

Automatic Transmission

C6 3-speed automatic transmission operation and maintenance.

Park (P): Locks transmission, use when parked
Reverse (R): Backing up only
Neutral (N): No drive, wheels free to roll
Drive (D): Normal forward driving
Second (2): Engine braking on hills
First (1): Maximum engine braking

Maintenance: Check fluid level monthly with engine running, transmission in Park. Fluid should be red and clear.

Routine Maintenance

Scheduled maintenance intervals for optimal performance.

Service	Interval	Procedure
Oil Change	3,000 miles	Replace oil and filter
Transmission Fluid	30,000 miles	Drain and refill
Coolant	30,000 miles	Flush and replace
Brake Fluid	30,000 miles	Inspect and replace
Air Filter	15,000 miles	Replace element
Spark Plugs	30,000 miles	Replace and gap

Fluid Specifications

Engine Oil: 10W-30 or 10W-40, 5 quarts with filter
Automatic Transmission: Type F or Mercon, 17 quarts total
Coolant: Ethylene glycol, 50/50 mix, 15 quarts
Brake Fluid: DOT 3
Power Steering: Type F automatic transmission fluid
Rear Differential: 80W-90 gear oil, 3.5 pints
Transfer Case (4WD): ATF Type F, 4 pints

Towing and Payload

Maximum capacities and proper towing procedures.

Check GVWR and GCWR ratings on door jamb sticker
Use proper hitch and safety chains
Distribute load evenly in bed
Use transmission gear 2 for mountain towing
Allow extra stopping distance

Maximum Ratings: Payload 2,470 lbs, Towing 7,500 lbs with proper equipment.

Safety Features

Standard safety equipment and proper usage.

Seat Belts: Lap belts standard, shoulder belts optional
Brakes: Dual hydraulic system with warning light
Lighting: Headlights, taillights, turn signals, hazard lights
Mirrors: West Coast style mirrors standard
Parking Brake: Mechanical rear brake actuation

CAUTION! Always wear seat belts. Check brakes regularly for proper operation.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Hard starting	Fuel system, ignition	Check fuel pump, filter, spark plugs, wires
Transmission slipping	Low fluid, worn bands	Check fluid level and condition, adjust bands
Overheating	Cooling system	Check coolant level, thermostat, radiator
Poor fuel economy	Tune-up needed	Replace plugs, wires, cap, rotor, air filter
Brake pulling	Uneven wear, caliper	Inspect pads, rotors, calipers, fluid
Electrical issues	Battery, alternator	Test battery, charging system, grounds

Service: Contact authorized Ford dealership for major repairs. Keep maintenance records for warranty.