1988 Nissan Pickup Repair Manual

The 1988 Nissan Pickup Repair Manual provides comprehensive technical information for maintaining and repairing the 1988 Nissan Pickup truck. This manual covers engine systems (including Z24 and KA24E engines), transmission, suspension, brakes, electrical systems, fuel system, cooling system, and routine maintenance procedures. Below are key sections for specifications, maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, and repair procedures.

1. Vehicle Specifications 2. Maintenance Schedule 3. Engine Repair 4. Transmission Systems 5. Brake System 6. Suspension & Steering 7. Electrical System 8. Fuel System 9. Cooling System 10. Troubleshooting Guide 11. Safety Precautions

Vehicle Specifications

Key specifications for the 1988 Nissan Pickup including engine options, dimensions, and capacities.

Specification	Details
Engine Options	Z24 2.4L I4, KA24E 2.4L I4
Transmission	5-speed manual, 4-speed automatic
Drivetrain	2WD and 4WD models available
Wheelbase	116.1 inches (Regular Bed)
Fuel Capacity	15.9 gallons
Oil Capacity	4.2 quarts (with filter)
Coolant Capacity	9.5 quarts
Tire Size	P195/75R14 (standard)
Payload Capacity	1,400 lbs
Towing Capacity	2,000 lbs (properly equipped)

Maintenance Schedule

Recommended maintenance intervals for optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

Oil and filter change: Every 3,000 miles or 3 months
Air filter replacement: Every 15,000 miles
Spark plugs: Every 30,000 miles
Timing belt: Every 60,000 miles (KA24E engine)
Coolant flush: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Brake fluid: Every 30,000 miles or 2 years
Transmission fluid: Every 30,000 miles
Differential fluid: Every 30,000 miles (4WD models)

WARNING! Always use manufacturer-recommended fluids and parts. Follow torque specifications precisely.

Engine Repair

Comprehensive engine service procedures for Z24 and KA24E engines.

Valve adjustment: Set clearance to 0.010" intake, 0.012" exhaust (hot)
Timing chain/belt replacement: Align timing marks during installation
Compression test: Should read 150-180 psi with less than 10% variation
Oil pump replacement: Prime before installation to prevent dry start
Head gasket replacement: Resurface head and clean block surface

CAUTION! Allow engine to cool completely before working on cooling system components.

Transmission Systems

Manual Transmission: FS5W71C 5-speed; fluid capacity 3.1 quarts 80W-90 gear oil
Automatic Transmission: 4-speed; fluid capacity 7.4 quarts Dexron II/Mercon
Clutch System: Hydraulic clutch; master cylinder 0.55 cu in, slave cylinder 0.38 cu in
Transfer Case: 4WD models only; fluid capacity 2.1 quarts 80W-90 gear oil
Differential: H190 rear axle; fluid capacity 2.6 quarts 80W-90 gear oil

Brake System

Disc brakes front, drum brakes rear with hydraulic dual-circuit system.

Front Brakes: 10.24" vented rotors, single piston calipers. Rear Brakes: 9.0" drums, self-adjusting mechanism.

Brake Specifications: Master cylinder bore 15/16", Brake fluid DOT 3, Parking brake mechanical rear drum.

Suspension & Steering

Front: Independent with torsion bars. Rear: Leaf spring suspension.

Torsion bar adjustment: Use for ride height correction
Ball joint replacement: Check for play before replacement
Shock absorber: Replace in pairs for optimal performance
Steering gear: Manual recirculating ball type
Alignment specs: Camber -0°15' to +1°15', Caster +1° to +3°

Tip: Always check wheel alignment after suspension component replacement.

Electrical System

12-volt negative ground system with 60-amp alternator.

Battery: Group 24, 550 CCA minimum
Alternator output: 60 amps at 2000 RPM
Starter motor: 1.4 kW gear reduction type
Fuse box: Located under dashboard
Wiring diagrams: Color-coded for easy troubleshooting
Ignition system: Electronic ignition with distributor
Lighting: Sealed beam headlights, replace as complete unit

WARNING! Disconnect battery before working on electrical system to prevent shorts.

Fuel System

Carbureted (Z24) or fuel injected (KA24E) systems with mechanical fuel pump.

Cooling System

Pressurized system with 13 psi radiator cap and mechanical fan.

CAUTION! Never open radiator cap when engine is hot. Use proper coolant mixture (50/50 antifreeze to water).

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Engine won't start	Fuel, spark, or compression issue	Check fuel delivery, spark plugs, ignition timing
Poor fuel economy	Dirty air filter, timing, carb adjustment	Replace air filter, adjust timing and carburetor
Brake pulling	Stuck caliper, contaminated pads	Clean and lubricate caliper slides, replace pads
Transmission noise	Low fluid, worn bearings	Check fluid level, inspect for metal particles
Electrical issues	Bad grounds, corroded connections	Clean battery terminals, check ground connections

Reset: Disconnect battery for 30 minutes to reset ECU if applicable.

Service: Consult certified Nissan technician for complex electrical or computer issues.