Positioning:
The Ferrari F40 was positioned as the ultimate supercar of its era, a homologation special for racing, and a pure driver's car. This manual reflects the high-performance, track-focused nature of the vehicle.
Competitors:
Porsche 959, Lamborghini Countach, Jaguar XJ220 (later competitor, but spirit of era).
Vehicle Highlights:
Twin-turbocharged V8, carbon fiber construction, radical aerodynamics, lightweight design, pure mechanical feedback.
Lifetime Access:
Unlimited, lifetime access with no expiry dates or renewal fees, installable on multiple devices.
Engine:
Complete engine overhauls, component diagnostics, tuning, fuel injection system, ignition system
Transmission:
Manual gearbox, clutch, driveshafts, differential - repair, overhaul, and adjustment
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, anti-roll bars, adjustment and replacement
Brakes:
Brake system diagnostics, component replacement (calipers, discs, pads), hydraulic system bleeding and service
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, component testing, lighting, ignition, starter, alternator, ECU diagnostics
Cooling System:
Radiator, fans, hoses, thermostat, water pump - maintenance and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection system (Bosch Motronic), fuel pumps, injectors, lines, tank - diagnostics and servicing
Exhaust System:
Exhaust manifold, catalytic converters, mufflers - inspection and replacement
Bodywork And Chassis:
Body panel removal and installation, chassis inspection, aerodynamic components
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, fault code interpretation (where applicable)
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for all major mechanical and electrical components
Overhaul:
Complete engine, transmission, and differential rebuild procedures
Adjustment:
Carburetor (if applicable, though F40 is FI), ignition timing, valve clearances, suspension alignment
Depth:
Comprehensive - suitable for professional mechanics and experienced DIY enthusiasts; covers everything from basic servicing to complete engine rebuilds and complex diagnostics.
Engine Type:
Twin-turbocharged V8, mid-mounted
Displacement:
2.9 liters (2936 cc)
Bore X Stroke:
82 mm x 71 mm
Horsepower:
471 hp @ 7000 rpm
Torque:
565 Nm (417 lb-ft) @ 4500 rpm
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch Motronic 2.5 fuel injection with twin turbochargers (IHI turbos)
Cooling Type:
Water-cooled
Oil Type Specification:
Full synthetic racing oil, e.g., Castrol GTX 20W-50 (check manual for specific Ferrari-approved spec)
Ignition Timing:
Electronically controlled by Motronic 2.5
Crash Safety:
Not officially tested by modern standards due to era and purpose; designed with driver experience and lightweight construction prioritized.
Braking System:
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear, ABS (later models may have ABS).
Steering:
Rack and pinion, unassisted (for maximum feedback).
Seatbelts:
3-point seatbelts.
Fire Suppression:
Integrated fire suppression system (racing feature, standard on F40).
Audio System:
Basic analog radio and cassette player typically fitted, as technology was secondary to performance.
ABS:
Optional on early models, standard on later ones; ABS system diagnostics are covered.
Diagnostics:
Primarily mechanical diagnostics; electronic diagnostics via specific Ferrari tools of the era, procedures often described in the manual.
Oil Change Interval:
Refer to manual; typically every 5,000 km or 1 year, but highly dependent on usage. Track use demands more frequent changes.
Major Service:
Recommended at intervals specified in the manual, often involving cambelt replacement, turbocharger checks, and comprehensive system inspection.
Coolant:
Specific ethylene glycol-based coolant mixture, Ferrari specified or equivalent (check manual for type and ratio).
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 high-temperature brake fluid (check manual for specific Ferrari recommendation).
Clutch Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid (often shared with the brake system).
Common Problems:
Turbo lag at low RPMs, complex fuel injection system diagnostics, potential for aging fuel lines and seals, brittle plastics in some components, electrical gremlins related to age. The manual addresses these with detailed troubleshooting steps.
Spark Plugs:
High-performance spark plugs (e.g., NGK, Champion) – specific part numbers detailed in manual.
Air Filters:
Performance air filters (specific types and part numbers covered).
Legacy:
Built to commemorate Ferrari's 40th anniversary and as the spiritual successor to the 288 GTO. It was the last Ferrari personally approved by Enzo Ferrari.
Development:
Evolved from the 288 GTO Evoluzione racing prototype. Minimal electronic aids, focused on pure performance and driver connection.
Production Years:
1987-1992
Production Volume:
Approximately 1,315 units produced worldwide.
Manufacturing Location:
Maranello, Italy
