Segment:
Full-size American luxury sedan, successor to the Ford LTD
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Caprice, Buick LeSabre, Oldsmobile Ninety-Eight, Cadillac Sedan de Ville
Vehicle Focus:
Comfort, spaciousness, V8 power, traditional body-on-frame construction
Value To Owner:
Empowers owners with factory-level diagnostic and repair knowledge, reduces reliance on mechanics, preserves vehicle value through proper maintenance.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Maintenance, Diagnostics
Models Covered:
All 1986 Ford LTD Crown Victoria models
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages
Type:
Factory Service Manual (FSM) / Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, lubrication, exhaust system, automatic transmission, components
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (hydraulic, parking), wheels, tires
Electrical:
Starting and charging system, lighting, instrumentation, body electrical, wiring diagrams, multiplex/CAN communication (where applicable)
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, mirrors, interior trim, seats, HVAC system, cruise control, safety restraints (seat belts, supplemental restraint systems), windshield wipers and washers
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, inspections
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, component testing procedures
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation
Specifications:
Torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic values, alignment settings
Depth:
Comprehensive (from basic maintenance to full engine/transmission rebuilds and complex electrical diagnostics)
Engine Type:
Overhead Valve (OHV) V8
Displacement:
5.0L (302 cu in)
Horsepower Est:
155-160 hp (typical for the 5.0L HO in this era)
Torque Est:
230-240 lb-ft (typical for the 5.0L HO in this era)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) or Multi-Port Electronic Fuel Injection (MPEFI) depending on specific configuration.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based (e.g., Ford Premium Engine Coolant - Ford Blue)
Oil Type:
API SF or SG Service Class, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check manual for precise recommendation)
Emission Features:
Catalytic converter, EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation), air injection system (if equipped)
Transmission Type:
4-speed Automatic (AOD - Automatic Overdrive)
Optional Transmission:
N/A for 1986 model year on Crown Victoria
Transmission Fluid:
Mercon (or equivalent DEXRON II/III)
Transmission Capacity Qt:
Approx. 10-12 quarts (dry fill, varies)
NHTSA Crash Test Rating:
Not directly applicable to this era's standardized ratings.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) often found on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag not standard; often equipped with reinforced safety cage and padded interior.
Seat Belts:
Lap and shoulder belts for front occupants, lap belts for rear.
Oil Change Interval Miles:
Every 3,000 miles or 3 months (typical for the era, manual will specify precise recommendation).
Transmission Fluid Change Interval Miles:
Every 30,000 miles or 24 months (typical, check manual).
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon/Type-F Automatic Transmission Fluid (check manual for exact specification)
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 Heavy Duty Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Radiator, water pump, exhaust system components, front suspension bushings, brake components, ignition control module (often).
Common Electrical Issues:
Faulty alternator, starter solenoid, fuel pump relay, voltage regulator, wiring harness degradation.
Oil Filter:
Ford FL-1A or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51515, Fram PH8A)
Air Filter:
Ford E3AZ-9601-A or equivalent (check manual for exact fitment)
Spark Plug Type:
Autolite 45, Motorcraft AWSF-32F, NGK UR4 (check manual for exact recommendation)
Timing Setting:
10 degrees Before Top Dead Center (BTDC) @ 600 RPM (engine warm, spout connector disconnected) - Consult manual for precise procedure.
Brand Legacy:
Ford's long-standing reputation for durable, full-size sedans.
Model Lineage:
Evolved from the Ford LTD, the Crown Victoria represented the pinnacle of Ford's traditional large sedan offerings, transitioning from the LTD nameplate in 1983.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Thomas, Ontario, Canada; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Wayne, Michigan, USA.
Production Span:
1979-1991 (Grand Marquis 1979-2011)
Common Industry Awards:
None specifically documented for this model year as a distinct award winner, but recognized for its solid construction and comfortable ride.
Consumer Reports Rating Era:
Generally rated average to above average for its class in comfort and ride quality, but often noted for lower fuel economy.
