🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

F-550 Super Duty

Year:

2008

Fourth Generation Codes:

P551 (Heavy Duty F-Series platform)

Chassis Code:

P551

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Heavy-Duty Commercial Truck / Chassis Cab

Target User:

Fleet owners, vocational users, independent repair shops, experienced DIY mechanics.

Competitors:

Chevrolet Silverado HD (2500HD/3500HD), GMC Sierra HD (2500HD/3500HD), Ram HD (2500/3500).

Manual Advantage:

Official OE licensed data, convenience of online access, comprehensive coverage, user-friendly interface.

Vehicle Advantage:

Robust construction, high towing and payload capacity, versatile chassis for various upfits.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair Information

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Component Replacement, Electrical Schematics

Estimated Pages:

Thousands (as it's software-based with dynamic content)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual Software

Language:

English

Format:

Online Software Accessible via Web Browser

Access Duration:

1 Year (with options for extension)

📖 Manual Coverage

Powertrain:

Engine mechanical (including diesel engine components), fuel system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system, engine management systems (PCM/ECM).

Drivetrain:

Manual and automatic transmissions, transfer case (if applicable), driveshafts, axles, differentials, wheel hubs.

Brakes:

Hydraulic brake system, ABS, parking brake, brake caliper and rotor replacement, brake fluid specifications.

Suspension And Steering:

Front and rear suspension components (leaf springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, tie rods), power steering system, steering gearbox.

Electrical:

Complete wiring diagrams, charging system (alternator, battery), starting system, lighting system, body control modules, instrument cluster, infotainment system wiring.

HVAC:

Air conditioning system, heater core, blower motor, climate control modules, refrigerant specifications.

Body And Chassis:

Frame construction, body panels, doors, glass, interior trim, bumpers, towing equipment.

Diagnostics:

On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-II), diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), diagnostic procedures for various systems.

Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, chassis lubrication, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Repair:

Engine component replacement (e.g., injectors, glow plugs, turbocharger), transmission overhaul, brake system repairs, suspension component replacement, steering system repairs, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Troubleshooting:

Step-by-step diagnostic guides for common and uncommon issues across all vehicle systems.

Rebuild:

Detailed procedures for engine and transmission rebuilds, including specifications and torque values.

Installation:

Procedures for replacing various components and accessories.

Depth Level:

Factory-level diagnostic and repair procedures

Detail Level:

Comprehensive, including torque specifications, clearances, tolerances, and specialized tool requirements.

📊 Manual Specifications

Data Format:

Proprietary web-based software with searchable content

Printability:

Content is designed for online viewing; printing capabilities may vary based on browser and software features, but generally allows section printing.

Binding:

N/A (Software)

Paper Quality:

N/A (Software)

Device Compatibility:

PC, Laptop, Smartphone, Tablet (requires internet connection and web browser)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type 1:

6.4L V8 OHV Triton (Gasoline)

Engine Code 1:

390 (for Triton)

Displacement 1:

6.4 Liters / 390 Cubic Inches

Fuel System 1:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI)

Engine Type 2:

6.4L V8 OHV Power Stroke Turbo Diesel

Engine Code 2:

F250 (for Power Stroke)

Displacement 2:

6.4 Liters / 390 Cubic Inches

Fuel System 2:

Common Rail Direct Injection (CRDI) with Turbocharging and Intercooling

Horsepower Gasoline:

Approx. 320 hp @ 4,000 rpm (Varies by configuration)

Torque Gasoline:

Approx. 400 lb-ft @ 3,200 rpm (Varies by configuration)

Horsepower Diesel:

Approx. 350 hp @ 3,000 rpm (Varies by configuration)

Torque Diesel:

Approx. 650 lb-ft @ 1,600 rpm (Varies by configuration)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

TorqShift 5-Speed Automatic (for Diesel)

Transmission Type 2:

6-Speed Manual (for Gasoline, less common)

Automatic Features:

SelectShift™ automatic with manual mode, tow/haul mode.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

Varies significantly based on configuration (e.g., 137.6 inches to 201.6 inches)

Cab Configurations:

Regular Cab, SuperCab, Crew Cab

Gvwr Range:

16,500 lbs to 23,500 lbs (depending on configuration and axle)

Curb Weight:

Varies widely based on configuration, engine, and drivetrain (typically 6,500 lbs+)

Payload Capacity:

Up to ~10,000+ lbs (Varies by GVWR and configuration)

Towing Capacity:

Up to ~24,500 lbs (conventional towing), higher with 5th-wheel/gooseneck (Varies by configuration and GCWR)

🛡️ Safety Features

NHTSA Ratings:

Individual ratings not typically provided for commercial vehicles in the same way as passenger cars; focus on structural integrity and component safety.

ABS:

Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)

Traction Control:

Available Traction Control System

Airbags:

Driver and Passenger front airbags

Seatbelts:

Three-point front seat belts

Frame Construction:

High-strength steel ladder frame chassis designed for heavy-duty use.

💡 Technology Features

Infotainment System:

Basic AM/FM radio, CD player, auxiliary input. Higher trims might offer SiriusXM satellite radio. Navigation systems were less common in this heavy-duty segment for 2008.

Driver Assistance Features:

Primarily focused on functionality and work capabilities rather than advanced driver assistance systems common in modern passenger vehicles. Features like cruise control are standard.

Connectivity Features:

Auxiliary audio input jack. Limited connectivity options compared to contemporary passenger vehicles.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Gasoline:

Every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact conditions)

Oil Change Diesel:

Every 5,000 - 10,000 miles or 12 months (refer to manual for exact conditions, oil type dependent)

Filter Replacement Diesel:

Fuel filters: typically every 15,000 - 30,000 miles; Air filter: inspect regularly, replace as needed (usually within 30,000-60,000 miles depending on conditions).

Engine Oil Gasoline:

API SN/SP, SAE 5W-20 or 5W-30 (Check owner's manual for specific viscosity)

Engine Oil Diesel:

API CJ-4 or CK-4, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-30 (Check owner's manual for specific viscosity and API service category)

Transmission Fluid Automatic:

Mercon LV (Most likely, verify with manual)

Coolant:

Ford Premium Gold Concentrated Engine Coolant (or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1)

Diesel Emissions System:

Early models of the 6.4L Power Stroke had known issues with the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) and Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) systems, requiring specific maintenance and potential regeneration cycles.

Turbocharger Diesel:

The sequential turbocharger system on the 6.4L Power Stroke can be complex; maintenance and proper operating temperatures are crucial.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Truck History:

Ford has a long and storied history in commercial vehicles, dating back to the early 20th century with trucks designed for work and utility.

Fseries Lineage:

The F-Series has evolved from light-duty pickups to a comprehensive range of trucks, with the F-550 representing the heavy-duty end of the spectrum, designed for vocational applications and severe duty.

Manufacturing Location:

Kentucky Truck Plant, Louisville, Kentucky, USA (primary)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for the F-550 in 2008 might be harder to pinpoint individually, the Ford Super Duty line consistently receives accolades for capability, towing, and payload in the heavy-duty segment.

Towing Payload Ratings:

Consistently ranked high in its class for towing and payload capacities, a primary factor in its market success.