🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Aston Martin

Model:

V8 Saloon

Year:

1986

Chassis Code:

V8 Saloon Series 2/3 (though specific chassis codes vary by individual build)

Engine Code Designation:

V8

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

An indispensable resource for owners and enthusiasts of the 1986 Aston Martin V8 Saloon, offering professional-level repair and maintenance guidance.

Competitors:

Third-party repair manuals, Haynes manuals (often less detailed for exotic cars), official workshop manuals from dealerships (often prohibitively expensive and not always available).

Authenticity:

Actual Genuine Factory Repair Manuals, not third-party reproductions.

Completeness:

Complete coverage of all aspects of repair, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

User Friendliness:

Easy to use, with numbered instructions, clear diagrams, and a structured table of contents.

Cost Effectiveness:

Saves significant labor costs compared to professional servicing.

📋 Manual Details

General Maintenance:

Included

Troubleshooting:

Included

Engine Service Repair:

Included

Transmission Service Repair:

Included

Brake System:

Included

Wiring Diagram:

Included

Electrical System:

Included

Suspension:

Included

Periodic Lubrication:

Included

Steering:

Included

Cooling System:

Included

Fuel Injection Fuel System:

Included

Emission System:

Included

Heater Air Conditioning:

Included

Engine Control System:

Included

Chassis Body:

Included

Restraint System:

Included

Interior:

Included

Differential Drive:

Included

Axle:

Included

Estimated Pages:

Hundreds (specific count not provided, but implied to be comprehensive)

Type:

Factory Service Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Printability:

Printable without restriction

Searchability:

Searchable (via PDF reader functionality)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Complete rebuild, disassembly, assembly, timing, lubrication, cooling, starting, charging.

Fuel System:

Carburetor tuning and overhaul (likely Zenith Stromberg or similar), fuel pump, fuel lines, fuel filters, fuel tank maintenance.

Ignition System:

Distributor, ignition coils, spark plugs, ignition timing, troubleshooting.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission overhaul, fluid changes, linkage adjustments, driveshaft.

Drive Axles Differential:

Rear axle assembly, differential service, CV joints (if applicable), driveshaft components.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, shock absorbers, springs, wishbones, bushings, steering rack, power steering system.

Brakes:

Hydraulic system, brake calipers, master cylinder, brake pads, brake discs, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake.

Electrical System:

Battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, wipers, horn, dashboard instruments, fused circuits, wiring harnesses.

Climate Control:

Heater core, blower motor, air conditioning system (if equipped), refrigerant servicing (basic guidelines likely).

Chassis Body:

Frame inspection, body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seals, bumpers, structural integrity checks.

Interior Trim:

Seat adjustment, dashboard removal, trim panel installation, headliner, carpet.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belts, mounting points, inspection.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Advanced troubleshooting guides for identifying and resolving mechanical and electrical faults.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for all major repair tasks, from minor adjustments to major component overhauls.

Maintenance Procedures:

Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, lubrication.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Comprehensive guides for rebuilding engines, transmissions, and other major assemblies.

Adjustment Calibration:

Procedures for adjusting carburetors, ignition timing, brakes, and other critical systems.

Inspection Checks:

Guidelines for inspecting various components for wear, damage, or malfunction.

Depth:

Professional Technician Level - Covers all aspects from basic maintenance to complete rebuilds and advanced diagnostics.

Illustrations:

Detailed illustrations, drawings, and photos for all repair procedures.

Notes Cautions Warnings:

Critical information highlighted with notes, cautions, and warnings throughout each chapter.

Sub Steps:

Detailed substeps expand on repair procedure information.

Troubleshooting Guide:

Advanced troubleshooting guide to help diagnose and correct any problem.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Compatibility:

Works on all PC-based Windows operating systems and Mac.

Resolution:

High Resolution

Selectivity:

Print individual pages, chapters, or the entire manual.

Binding Type Digital:

Digital Download (Printable)

Paper Type Virtual:

N/A (Digital PDF)

Delivery Method:

Instant download link after payment.

Software Requirement:

Adobe PDF Reader

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

Aston Martin V8

Displacement:

Approximately 5.3 Liters (5340 cc)

Configuration:

4 valves per cylinder, DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshafts)

Fuel Delivery:

Typically Weber carburetors (e.g., Weber 42 DCNF or similar quad-choke setup) or potentially Lucas fuel injection on later variants. The manual should cover the specific system for the 1986 model.

Horsepower Approximate:

Around 300-315 bhp (advertised figures varied)

Torque Approximate:

Around 320-340 lb-ft (advertised figures varied)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline (requiring appropriate octane rating as specified by Aston Martin)

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Manual transmission (e.g., 5-speed ZF or similar)

Optional Transmission:

Automatic transmission (e.g., Chrysler Torqueflite 727 or similar)

Transmission Fluid Specifications:

Specific ATF fluid type required (refer to manual for exact specification like Dexron II or equivalent).

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

Four-door Saloon (Sedan)

Wheelbase Approximate:

108 inches (2743 mm)

Length Approximate:

194 inches (4928 mm)

Width Approximate:

72 inches (1829 mm)

Height Approximate:

52 inches (1321 mm)

Curb Weight Approximate:

Approximately 4,200 - 4,500 lbs (1905 - 2041 kg)

🛡️ Safety Features

Safety Ratings:

No specific NHTSA/Euro NCAP ratings for this era and model; safety features based on contemporary standards.

Active Safety:

Four-wheel disc brakes, power steering, independent suspension.

Passive Safety:

Seat belts, robust chassis construction, padded interior elements.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic analog radio, cassette player (optional), and associated speaker controls. Limited by era's technology.

Driver Assistance Features:

None in the modern sense; primary driver assistance is the responsive steering and braking systems.

Connectivity Features:

None (no Bluetooth, USB, or smart device integration).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or annually, but the manual will provide precise factory recommendations.

Major Service Interval:

Annual service recommended, with more comprehensive checks at higher mileage intervals (e.g., 10,000, 20,000 miles) as detailed in the manual.

Engine Oil:

Refer to manual for specific API service classification and viscosity (likely 20W/50 or similar high-performance oil).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixture with distilled water. Specific ratio and type (e.g., traditional green coolant) will be in the manual.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid recommended. Manual will specify exact type and change interval.

Common Issues:

Carburetor tuning and synchronization, fuel system components (fuel lines, pumps), ignition system reliability, potential for rust (common in older British vehicles), suspension bushing wear, electrical gremlins (typical for vehicles of this era).

Maintenance Emphasis:

Regular lubrication, fluid changes, and meticulous attention to the fuel and ignition systems are critical for longevity.

📚 Vehicle History

Heritage:

Aston Martin, established in 1913, is renowned for producing luxurious, high-performance grand tourers and sports cars with a strong racing pedigree.

V8 Evolution:

The V8 Saloon evolved from the V8 Vantage and DBS models, with the 'Saloon' designation indicating the four-door body style. The 1986 model falls into the Series 3 or later iterations, featuring continuous refinement and updates over the preceding years.

Production Era:

The V8 Saloon was produced from the mid-1970s through the late 1980s, with various updates and engine displacements throughout its run.

Manufacturing Location:

Newport Pagnell, Buckinghamshire, England

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Brand Recognition:

Aston Martin vehicles are consistently recognized for their bespoke craftsmanship, luxury, performance, and iconic styling, often associated with prestigious motoring and film appearances (e.g., James Bond).

Automotive Press:

Contemporary automotive press generally lauded the V8 Saloon for its potent performance, luxurious interior, and imposing presence, while acknowledging its demanding maintenance requirements.