🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Bronco

Model Generation:

Third Generation (1980-1986)

Year Range:

1980-1986

Engine Code:

5.8L V8 (351 Windsor)

Drivetrain Options:

2WD, 4WD

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of Ford Bronco 5.8L V8 (351 Windsor) from 1980-1986, mechanics, restoration specialists.

Value Proposition:

Provides comprehensive, factory-level repair and maintenance information at a fraction of the cost of dealership services, empowering users to perform their own work.

Content Quality:

Detailed illustrations, step-by-step instructions, specific diagrams, and technical data written for ease of understanding.

Format Convenience:

Electronic PDF format allows for easy searching, printing of specific pages, and portability.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Workshop Service and Repair

Vehicle Coverage:

Ford Bronco 5.8L V8 (351 Windsor) models, 1980-1986

Estimated Page Count:

Detailed and comprehensive, not specified but typical for a full workshop manual.

Type:

Workshop Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, disassembly, inspection, repair, tuning, performance diagnostics.

Engine Control System:

Electronic engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensor operations, actuator testing.

Fuel System:

Fuel delivery, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulation, carburetor (if applicable to specific sub-models within the range).

Ignition System:

Ignition timing, spark plugs, coils, distributor, electronic ignition module diagnostics.

Transmission Automatic:

Automatic transmission overhaul, troubleshooting, fluid changes, shift control.

Transmission Manual:

Manual transmission overhaul, troubleshooting, clutch system service.

Driveshaft And Driveline:

Driveshaft removal, installation, U-joints, differential service, axle shafts.

Transfer Case:

Transfer case operation, maintenance, repair for 4WD models.

Front Suspension 2Wd 4Wd:

Independent front suspension (IFS) or solid front axle (depending on specific model year and configuration), ball joints, control arms, springs, shocks.

Rear Suspension:

Leaf spring suspension, shock absorbers, axle housing.

Brake System:

Disc brake and drum brake systems, hydraulic lines, master cylinder, wheel cylinders, brake pads, shoes, rotors, drums.

Parking Brake:

Parking brake system operation and adjustment.

Steering System:

Power steering system, steering gear, tie rods, steering column.

Wheel And Tire:

Wheel balancing, tire rotation, wheel alignment specifications.

Chassis Electrical:

All electrical components, wiring harnesses, fuses, relays.

Lighting:

Headlights, taillights, interior lighting, signal lights.

Instruments And Switches:

Dashboard instruments, gauges, switches, control panels.

HVAC System:

Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis and repair.

Interior:

Interior trim, seats, dashboard removal and installation.

Exterior:

Body panels, doors, glass, trim.

Wiper Washer System:

Windshield wipers and washer system components and operation.

Speed Control System:

Cruise control system diagnosis and repair.

Emission Control:

Emission control systems, catalytic converter, EGR valve, PCV system.

Circuit Protection:

Fuse box locations, circuit breaker identification and testing.

Vacuum Diagrams:

Detailed vacuum hose routing diagrams for engine and accessories.

Maintenance:

Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, tune-ups.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all systems.

Repair:

Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all components and systems.

Disassembly Reassembly:

Detailed instructions for dismantling and reassembling major vehicle components.

Diagnostics:

System-specific diagnostic charts, testing procedures, and expected values.

Wiring Diagrams:

Comprehensive electrical wiring diagrams for all circuits.

Depth:

Factory-level detail suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics, covering everything from basic fluid checks to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

File Size:

96 MB

Compatibility:

All Windows versions, All Mac versions

Required Software:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (free download from Adobe website), WinZip or WinRAR (for extraction, free download available).

Printability:

Printable pages for individual tasks. High-quality illustrations and diagrams.

Binding:

Digital (PDF format), no physical binding.

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital Format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

V8, Naturally Aspirated, Overhead Valve (OHV)

Displacement:

5.8 Liters (351 cubic inches)

Bore X Stroke:

4.00 in x 3.50 in (typical for 351W)

Compression Ratio:

Varies by year and specific engine build, typically around 8.4:1 to 9.0:1

Horsepower Range:

Approximately 150-185 HP (dependent on year and specific tuning)

Torque Range:

Approximately 260-300 lb-ft (dependent on year and specific tuning)

Fuel Delivery Type:

Carbureted (e.g., Motorcraft 2-barrel or 4-barrel) or early Fuel Injection (EFI) depending on the specific year and trim.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded Gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Standard Transmission:

Typically a 4-speed manual transmission (e.g., NP435, T-18/T-19) or a 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., C6).

Optional Transmission:

4-speed overdrive automatic transmission (e.g., AOD) introduced later in the generation.

Transfer Case:

Manual or electronic engagement 4WD transfer case (e.g., New Process NP208).

📐 Dimensions

Body Style:

2-door SUV

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.3 inches (2649 mm)

Overall Length:

Approx. 177.4 inches (4506 mm)

Overall Width:

Approx. 79.1 inches (2009 mm)

Overall Height:

Approx. 67.6 inches (1717 mm)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 4,000 - 4,500 lbs (1814 - 2041 kg) depending on configuration.

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Varies, typically around 6,000 lbs (2722 kg).

Towing Capacity:

Varies significantly by year, engine, and axle ratio, but often up to 5,000 lbs (2268 kg) or more with proper equipment.

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited crash test data available for this era. Emphasis on robust body-on-frame construction for its class.

Braking:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Optional rear disc brakes on some later models.

Steering:

Power steering standard on most models.

Restraints:

Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts in front, lap belts in rear).

Construction:

Body-on-frame construction, solid chassis.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Some models may have upgraded sound systems.

Driver Assistance Features:

None of the modern driver-assistance systems (e.g., ABS, traction control, adaptive cruise control) were standard or widely available in this era for this vehicle type.

Connectivity Options:

No factory connectivity options (e.g., Bluetooth, USB).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, but consult specific manual for exact recommendation.

Filter Replacement Interval:

Oil filter with every oil change. Air filter and fuel filter as per manual recommendations (e.g., 15,000-30,000 miles).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles, or as specified in the manual.

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG service category. Viscosity grade typically 10W-30 or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult manual for precise specifications.

Engine Oil Capacity:

Approx. 5 US quarts (4.7 liters) with filter change for the 5.8L V8.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Ford ESP-M2C166-H or equivalent (e.g., Dexron II/III compatible).

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90.

Coolant:

Ethylene Glycol based coolant (e.g., Motorcraft SuperPlus or equivalent) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Common Issues Engine:

Carburetor tuning, ignition system component wear (points, condenser, coil), vacuum leaks leading to rough idle, oil leaks from valve covers and oil pan seals.

Common Issues Chassis:

Rust in common areas (wheel wells, rocker panels, tailgate), worn U-joints in 4WD models, aging rubber bushings in suspension and steering, brake system component wear (rotors, drums, lines).

Common Issues Electrical:

Fraying or brittle wiring insulation, corroded grounds, intermittent switch failures, alternator and voltage regulator issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Heritage:

Ford has a long history of rugged, off-road capable vehicles, with the Bronco being a flagship model for many years.

Third Gen Bronco:

The third generation marked a significant redesign from the classic Bronco, moving to a more modern, squared-off styling, with an integrated body and frame. It offered a more car-like experience while retaining its off-road prowess.

Manufacturing Location:

Ford's Michigan Truck Plant, Wayne, Michigan, USA.

Production Years:

1980-1986

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Recognition:

The Ford Bronco has a strong legacy and dedicated following, often celebrated in off-road and classic car communities for its durability and capability.