Model:
F-Series (F100, F150, F250, F350)
Model Generation:
Eighth Generation
Model Years Covered:
1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995
Chassis Code:
First Generation OBS (Observed Style) platform
Vehicle Segment:
Full-size pickup trucks
Target Audience:
Owners, DIY mechanics, professional technicians, restoration enthusiasts
Competitors:
Chevrolet C/K Series, Dodge Ram (W/D series), GMC Sierra
Manual Value:
Essential for maintenance, repair, and maximizing the lifespan and performance of these robust trucks.
Manual Advantage:
Provides access to factory-level information, often unavailable in generic guides.
Restoration Guide:
Invaluable for owners undertaking restorations due to detailed diagrams and component identification.
Coverage Scope:
Comprehensive service, repair, and troubleshooting for all specified Ford F-Series models
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages (exact count not provided, but described as very detailed)
Type:
Factory Service Repair Workshop Manual
Compatibility:
Windows and MAC computers, tablets, and smartphones
License Type:
Lifetime use, no expiry dates, no renewal fees
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, lubrication, cooling, fuel, ignition, exhaust, emissions control
Drivetrain:
Transmission (manual and automatic), transfer case (4WD models), driveshafts, axles, differentials
Chassis:
Steering system, suspension (front and rear), brakes (hydraulic, power assist), wheels and tires
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories, body electrical controls, wiring diagrams
Body:
Body and frame construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, HVAC system
Fuel System Diagnosis:
Troubleshooting and repair of carbureted and EFI fuel systems, including fuel pump testing, injector diagnosis, and fuel pressure checks.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, tune-ups), fluid checks and changes
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major components and systems
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, fault code interpretation (if applicable)
Diagnostics:
Component testing, electrical circuit testing, diagnostic procedures
Suspension Repair:
Detailed instructions for front twin-I-beam suspension (2WD) and solid axle suspension (4WD), including component replacement and alignment procedures.
Brake Overhaul:
Procedures for brake pad/shoe replacement, caliper/wheel cylinder service, brake line replacement, and master cylinder overhaul.
Depth:
Professional-level, covering everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds
Illustrations:
Detailed photos and exploded diagrams for visual guidance
Torque Specifications:
Includes critical torque values for engine, transmission, suspension, and driveline components.
Accuracy Standard:
Factory-level accuracy, reflecting original manufacturer specifications and procedures.
Engine Options:
Range of Inline-6 and V8 gasoline engines, and diesel options for F250/F350
Typical Gasoline Engines:
4.9L (300ci) I6, 5.0L (302ci) V8 (HO version common later), 5.8L (351ci) V8 (Windsor), 7.5L (460ci) V8
Typical Diesel Engines:
6.9L IDI V8, 7.3L IDI V8 (naturally aspirated and later turbocharged)
Horsepower Range:
Varies by engine, from approximately 120 hp (I6) to over 220 hp (460 V8, later turbocharged diesel)
Torque Range:
Significant torque figures, crucial for towing and hauling, with V8 and diesel engines offering the most.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (early models, e.g., Motorcraft 2150/7200) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems (later models, Throttle Body Injection - TBI, and Multi-port Fuel Injection - MPFI on some later V8s)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (for gasoline engines), Diesel fuel (for diesel engines)
Common Engine Codes:
300 inline-six (e.g., 'H'), 302 V8 (e.g., 'E', 'H'), 351W V8 (e.g., 'G', 'K'), 460 V8 (e.g., 'B'), 6.9L IDI Diesel (e.g., '4'), 7.3L IDI Diesel (e.g., '6')
Radiator Type:
Downflow or crossflow, depending on year and application. Capacity varies by engine and payload package.
Manual Transmission:
Available on most models, typically 3, 4, or 5-speed (e.g., NP435 4-speed, T-18/T-19 4-speed, T-19 4-speed heavy duty, ZF S5-47 5-speed)
Automatic Transmission:
Available, commonly C6 (3-speed heavy duty), AOD (4-speed overdrive on lighter duty), E4OD (4-speed electronic overdrive on heavier duty)
Transfer Case:
Manual or electronic shift 4WD transfer cases (e.g., NP205, NP208, BW1345, BW1356) for 4x4 models
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, SuperCab (extended cab), Styleside pickup bed, Flareside pickup bed (early years)
Wheelbase Options:
Multiple wheelbase options depending on cab and bed configuration (e.g., 117", 133", 138", 145", 155" for 2WD, additional for 4WD)
Gvwr Range:
Significantly varies by model, from ~5000 lbs (F100/F150) to over 10000 lbs (F350 DRW)
Towing Capacity:
High towing capacities, especially for F250 and F350 models equipped with appropriate powertrains and configurations.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM radio, cassette player (optional), aftermarket radio upgrades common.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System available on some models, typically rear-wheel ABS initially.
Electronics:
Relatively basic electronic systems compared to modern vehicles. Emphasis on mechanical reliability.
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Transmission Fluid:
Check fluid level regularly; change approximately every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, depending on transmission type and service use.
Coolant:
Flush and replace coolant every 30,000 to 50,000 miles or every 2-3 years.
Tune Up:
Spark plugs, distributor cap/rotor, spark plug wires typically every 30,000 to 60,000 miles depending on component quality and engine.
Engine Oil:
API Service SG or SF, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-40). Consult manual for specific engine requirements.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Mercon or Type F (check manual for specific transmission). E4OD generally requires Mercon. Capacities vary significantly.
Manual Transmission Fluid:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90 typically.
Coolant:
Permanent type antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford Premium Gold or equivalent.
Power Steering Fluid:
Typically Mercon or Dexron II/III compatible fluid.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, depending on the specific brake system configuration.
Common Problems:
Rust (especially cab corners, rocker panels, bed sides), carburetor issues (on carbureted models), power steering leaks, exhaust manifold cracks (on some V8s), interior wear and tear, transmission cooler line leaks.
Diesel Specific Issues:
Glow plug system issues, injector pump reliability on early 6.9L, exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) problems (on later diesels).
Ford Trucks:
Ford has a long and storied history in the truck market, with the F-Series being a cornerstone since its inception in 1948.
Eighth Generation:
Introduced in 1980, this generation marked a significant aerodynamic update over its predecessor, hence the nickname 'Observed Style' or OBS. Featured a more modern and boxy design, improved interiors, and updated powertrains.
Facelifts Updates:
Received minor updates throughout its run, including grille designs, interior refinements, and powertrain enhancements (e.g., introduction of EFI, improved transmissions).
Manufacturing Locations:
Multiple Ford assembly plants across North America.
