🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

F-150

Year:

1986

Body Style:

Pickup Truck

Drivetrain:

2WD

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Full-size Pickup Truck

Target Audience:

Owners and technicians servicing the 1986 Ford F-150, particularly those concerned with maintaining emissions compliance and performance.

Contemporary Competitors:

Chevrolet C/K Series, Dodge Ram, GMC Sierra

Vehicle Strengths:

Rugged construction, established reputation for durability, capable for work and towing, availability of various engine and body configurations.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides critical information for owners and mechanics to manage the specific emission control systems of the 1986 F-150, ensuring compliance and efficient operation.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Emission System Maintenance and Warning Module

Estimated Pages:

Variable (CD-based, likely extensive)

Type:

Service Manual / Maintenance Module

Language:

English

Format:

PDF on CD-ROM

📖 Manual Coverage

Emission Control Systems:

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), Catalytic Converter, Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV), Thermactor (Air Injection) System, Evaporative Emission (EVAP) Control System, Oxygen Sensors (O2 Sensors), Fuel Vapor Recovery System, On-Board Diagnostics (OBD-I - though limited in 1986)

Maintenance Procedures:

Inspection of emission control components, cleaning and replacement of PCV valves, replacement of air filters, spark plug maintenance related to emissions, inspection of vacuum lines, checking and replacement of oxygen sensors, catalytic converter inspection and replacement guidance

Troubleshooting Procedures:

Diagnosis of emission control system faults, identification of causes for check engine/malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) illumination, interpretation of diagnostic codes (where applicable for the era), common emission-related drivability issues and their solutions

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Focus on visual inspection, basic testing of components (e.g., vacuum leaks), and interpretation of warning lights. Limited electronic diagnostic capabilities compared to later models.

Repair Information:

Component replacement procedures for key emission control parts, adjustment procedures where applicable, torque specifications for relevant fasteners.

📊 Manual Specifications

PDF Quality:

High-resolution, searchable PDF (assumed for quality CD)

Printability:

Printable pages for easy reference

Binding:

Not Applicable (digital format on CD)

Paper:

Not Applicable (digital format on CD)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1:

4.9L (300 cu in) I6

Engine Options 2:

5.0L (302 cu in) V8

Engine Options 3:

5.8L (351 cu in) V8

Horsepower 4.9L I6:

Approx. 112-120 HP

Torque 4.9L I6:

Approx. 245-250 lb-ft

Horsepower 5.0L V8:

Approx. 145-155 HP

Torque 5.0L V8:

Approx. 250-260 lb-ft

Horsepower 5.8L V8:

Approx. 180-190 HP

Torque 5.8L V8:

Approx. 300-315 lb-ft

Fuel Delivery I6:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Single Injector per Cylinder (Throttle Body Injection)

Fuel Delivery V8:

Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) - Single Injector per Cylinder (Throttle Body Injection)

Recommended Fuel:

Unleaded Gasoline

Efi Role In Emissions:

EFI allows for more precise air-fuel mixture control, crucial for optimizing catalytic converter efficiency and reducing emissions.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission Options:

4-speed Manual, 5-speed Manual (e.g., BorgWarner T-18/T-19/T-5)

Automatic Transmission Options:

3-speed Automatic (C6), 4-speed Automatic (AOD - Overdrive)

Overdrive Feature:

AOD automatic offers overdrive for improved fuel economy and reduced engine noise at highway speeds.

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Mercon (for AOD), Type F or equivalent (for C6)

Manual Transmission Fluid:

GL-4 or GL-5 Gear Oil (viscosity dependent on temperature and manufacturer recommendation, typically 80W-90)

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase Options:

Short Bed (117.2 in), Long Bed (133.7 in), Long Bed Dually (if applicable, though F-150 is typically single rear wheel)

Bed Length Options:

6.5 ft (Standard Cab Short Bed), 8 ft (Standard Cab Long Bed, Extended Cab)

Curb Weight Range:

Approx. 3,600 - 4,500 lbs (depending on configuration)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:

Varies by model and configuration, typically 5,000 lbs to 7,400 lbs for F-150

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official crash test data available for this era comparable to modern NHTSA/IIHS ratings. Focus on passive safety features of the time.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes. Optional rear anti-lock braking system (RABS) available on some later models, but less common in '86.

Steering Type:

Recirculating ball steering, often with power assist.

Seat Belts:

Lap and shoulder belts (typically).

Body Construction:

Body-on-frame construction providing inherent strength.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

AM/FM radio, optional Cassette player. Basic speaker systems.

Cruise Control:

Optional feature on many models.

Anti Lock Brakes:

Rear-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (RABS) was an emerging technology, not universally standard on all '86 models.

Connectivity Features:

None (no provisions for modern connectivity like Bluetooth, USB, etc.)

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for exact recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually, or sooner if driving in dusty conditions.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Typically every 30,000-60,000 miles for standard plugs, potentially longer for premium or E.O. (Exhaust Optimized) plugs if fitted.

Pcv Valve Replacement:

Recommended every 30,000 miles or as needed if malfunctioning.

Engine Oil Viscosity:

SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific temperature ranges).

Engine Oil Type:

API Service SG or SH rated (or equivalent for the era)

Coolant Type:

Ethylene Glycol based permanent antifreeze (typically a green color). 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3

Common Emission Issues:

Vacuum leaks in hoses, clogged EGR valves, malfunctioning PCV valves, aging O2 sensors, catalytic converter degradation, issues with early EFI sensors (e.g., MAP sensor).

Drivability Complaints:

Rough idle, poor acceleration, increased fuel consumption, stalling, failed emissions tests.

Diagnostic Tool Era:

OBD-I systems were emerging. Basic code readers might be available, but many diagnostics rely on vacuum gauges, multimeters, and visual inspection.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Truck Legacy:

Ford has a long-standing reputation for building durable and capable trucks, with the F-Series being a dominant force in the market for decades.

Seventh Generation F Series:

The 1986 F-150 is part of the seventh generation (1980-1986) of the Ford F-Series, which saw significant aerodynamic styling updates and the introduction of fuel injection.

Emission Regulation Impact:

The 1980s saw increasing emissions regulations, leading manufacturers like Ford to implement more sophisticated (for the time) emission control systems and fuel management.

Manufacturing Location:

Various Ford assembly plants in North America (e.g., Kansas City, Claycomo; Detroit, Wayne; Ontario, Oakville).

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Truck Of The Year Awards:

While specific 'Truck of the Year' awards for the 1986 model year are not as prominent as in later years, the F-Series consistently received accolades for its sales leadership and utility.

Consumer Satisfaction:

Ford trucks of this era generally had a reputation for robust construction and longevity, contributing to owner satisfaction.

Emission Certification:

Vehicles are designed to meet federal and state emissions standards applicable for the 1986 model year. This manual aids in maintaining that compliance.