Engine:
Engine repair, overhaul, diagnostics, tune-ups, lubrication system, fuel system, ignition system, cooling system, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, overhaul, diagnostics, removal and installation, fluid specifications.
Drivetrain:
Front and rear axle, drive shaft, differential, transfer case (if applicable), CV joints, U-joints, wheel bearings.
Suspension Steering:
Front and rear suspension components (struts, shocks, springs, control arms, ball joints, bushings), steering gear, power steering system, tie rods, alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (discs, drums, calipers, wheel cylinders, master cylinder, ABS), brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, parking brake system.
Electrical:
Complete electrical system, starting and charging systems, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, instrumentation, wiring diagrams, fuses, relays, body control modules, sensors.
Body Chassis:
Body panels, doors, windows, interior trim, seats, bumpers, frame, chassis components, rust prevention, repair procedures.
HVAC:
Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning system diagnosis and repair, refrigerant handling, components.
Comfort Convenience:
Power windows, power door locks, mirrors, seats, sunroofs (if applicable), interior lighting.
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, tire rotations, spark plug replacement, belt inspections and replacement.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, electrical system diagnostics, powertrain diagnostics, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) interpretation.
Repair Overhaul:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, inspection, repair, reassembly, and installation.
Special Tools:
Identification and usage instructions for specialized tools required for specific repair and adjustment procedures, including Ford's special tool numbers where applicable.
Proprietary Components:
Instructions for proprietary Ford components and integration of instructions from respective component manufacturers for specialized parts.
Depth:
Comprehensive coverage from routine maintenance to full engine and transmission overhauls, suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
NHTSA Frontal Impact Driver:
Not explicitly rated for this generation in the provided data, but generally considered robust for its class.
IIHS Frontal Offset:
Likely rated as acceptable to good for the era, but specific reports are not detailed here.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) available, often standard on higher trims or as an option.
Airbags:
Driver and passenger front airbags.
Seatbelts:
Front and rear seatbelts with pretensioners.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine and oil type).
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or as needed based on driving conditions.
Spark Plug Replacement:
Varies by engine: 4.2L V6 approx. 100,000 miles, Triton V8s approx. 100,000 miles (check manual for specific plug type).
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual. Typically SAE 5W-30 or 5W-20 for Triton V8s, and 5W-30 for V6. API classification must meet Ford specifications (e.g., API SG, SH, SJ).
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (green) or equivalent meeting Ford specification WSS-M97B51-A1.
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Mercon V (for 4R70W transmission)
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
Refer to manual. Typically Mercon ATF or specific manual transmission fluid.
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Some Triton V8 engines experienced issues with intake manifold gasket leaks, leading to coolant or vacuum leaks.
Rear Main Seal:
Potential for rear main seal leaks on some engines.
Ignition Coils:
Spark plug blowouts and ignition coil issues were reported on some Triton V8 engines, often addressed with updated designs or retainers.
Rust:
As with many trucks of this era, rust can be an issue in areas exposed to salt and moisture, particularly on frame rails, cab corners, and wheel arches.
Ford Truck Legacy:
Ford has a long and established history in the pickup truck market, with the F-Series being a consistently best-selling line for decades.
Ninth Gen Introduction:
The ninth generation F-150, launched in 1997, represented a significant redesign with a more aerodynamic and modern appearance compared to its predecessor.
Powertrain Updates:
Introduction of the Triton V8 engines (4.6L and 5.4L) which offered improved performance and fuel efficiency over older pushrod V8s.
Assembly Locations:
Various Ford assembly plants in North America, including Dearborn, Michigan, and Kansas City, Missouri.
