Market Position:
The Ford F-Series Super Duty trucks of this era were market leaders in the heavy-duty pickup truck segment, known for their robust construction, towing capabilities, and powerful engine options. This manual targets DIY mechanics, fleet managers, and owners who perform their own maintenance and repairs.
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, fleet maintenance personnel, and owners seeking to perform their own diagnostics and repairs to save money and maintain their vehicle effectively.
Competitive Analysis:
Competitors in this segment included Chevrolet Silverado HD, GMC Sierra HD, and Dodge Ram HD. The Ford F-250's strength lay in its modular design, durable powertrains (especially the Power Stroke diesel), and extensive aftermarket support. This manual provides the specific factory data needed to maintain and repair these robust vehicles.
Key Features:
Single-year specific coverage for optimal accuracy, comprehensive system coverage, searchable PDF format with bookmarks, no software installation required, ability to print specific sections, and significant cost savings compared to professional labor.
Value Proposition:
Empowers vehicle owners and technicians with factory-level diagnostic and repair knowledge, leading to more accurate repairs, reduced downtime, and significant cost savings over the lifespan of the vehicle.
Systems Covered:
Engine, Cooling System, Fuel System, Ignition System, Emissions Control, Starting System, Charging System, Transmission (Automatic & Manual), Driveline, Axles, Suspension (Front & Rear), Brakes (Hydraulic, Power, Parking, ABS), Steering, Electrical System (incl. Climate Control, Instrument Cluster, Lighting, Anti-Theft), Body Panels, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Glass, Safety Belts, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS), Wiper/Washer System, Convertible Top (if applicable), Bumpers, Audio System, Navigation System, Module Communications Network.
Chassis Systems:
Front Suspension (Twin-I-beam independent front suspension for gasoline, solid front axle for 4x4 diesel), Rear Suspension (leaf springs), Wheel and Tires, Driveshaft, Rear Drive Axle/Differential, Brake System (Front disc, Rear disc or drum depending on configuration, hydraulic, power, parking, ABS), Steering System (Recirculating ball steering gear, power assist, steering column components).
Powertrain Systems:
Engine System (detailed), Engine Cooling, Supercharger Cooling (if applicable, though rare for this model), Fuel Charging and Control, Accessory Drive, Starting System, Engine Ignition, Engine Emission Control, Intake Air Distribution and Filtering, Evaporative Emissions Control, Electronic Engine Controls (PCM/ECM diagnostics and calibration). Transaxle/Transmission (Automatic and Manual, specific models), Exhaust System (components, catalytic converter, muffler), Fuel Tank and Lines, Acceleration Control, Speed Control.
Electrical Systems:
Climate Control System (manual and automatic), Instrument Cluster and Panel Illumination, Charging System (alternator, battery, wiring), Entertainment System (radio, speakers), Lighting (headlamps, taillamps, interior lamps), Module Communications Network (e.g., for ABS, Powertrain Control Module), Anti-Theft Systems.
Body And Paint Systems:
Front End Body Panels, Body Closures (doors, hood, tailgate), Interior Trim and Ornamentation, Exterior Trim and Ornamentation, Rear View Mirrors, Seating Systems, Glass, Frames and Mechanisms, Instrument Panel and Console, Handles, Locks, Latches and Entry System, Wipers and Washers, Bumpers, Safety Belt System, Supplemental Restraint System (SRS/Airbags).
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams for Audio System, Navigation, Charging System, Climate Control, Seats, Cluster and Panel Illumination, Cooling Fan, Electronic Engine Controls, Headlamps, Autolamps, Heated Window, Horn, Cigar Lighter, Instrument Cluster, Interior Lamps, Luggage Compartment, Module Communications Network, Overhead Console, Parking/Rear/License Lamps, Passive Anti-Theft, Power Distribution, Power Door Locks, Power Mirrors, Power Window, Remote Keyless Entry and Alarm, Reversing Lamps, Shift Interlock, Speed Control, Starting System, Supplemental Restraint System, and more. Includes splice location indices.
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Diagnostics (including DTCs), Component Removal and Installation, System Overhaul, Repair Procedures, Adjustments, Lubrication Specifications, Torque Specifications, Wiring Diagram Interpretation, Jacking and Lifting Procedures.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for various systems, including fuel delivery, ignition timing, emissions controls, ABS, HVAC, and more. Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) interpretation and troubleshooting trees.
Repair Procedures:
Detailed, step-by-step instructions for virtually every repair and maintenance task, from simple fluid changes to complex engine component replacement, transmission overhaul, and body panel repair.
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive, covering all aspects of repair and maintenance from basic service to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Includes detailed diagnostic flowcharts and specifications for professional-level work.
Torque Specifications:
Extensive listing of torque specifications for all fasteners, critical for ensuring proper assembly and preventing component damage. Includes engine, chassis, and suspension component torque values.
Primary Engine Options:
4.6L Triton V8 (255 hp @ 4500 rpm, 293 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm), 5.4L Triton V8 (235 hp @ 4500 rpm, 330 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm), 6.8L Triton V10 (275 hp @ 4000 rpm, 410 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm), 7.3L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel (215 hp @ 3000 rpm, 440 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm for early models, later models offered higher torque variants).
Engine Code Examples:
4.6L V8 (W), 5.4L V8 (L), 6.8L V10 (A), 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel (F).
Power Stroke Diesel Features:
The 7.3L Power Stroke V8 Turbo Diesel is renowned for its durability and torque, featuring HEUI injection, a robust cast-iron block and cylinder heads, and a turbocharger for enhanced performance.
Engine Performance Notes:
Engine performance varies significantly by specific engine and configuration. Diesel variants are known for high torque output, ideal for towing and heavy loads. Gasoline V8s offer a balance of power and refinement. The V10 provides ample power for heavy-duty applications.
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for gasoline engines. High-pressure common rail injection (HEUI - Hydraulically Actuated Electronically Controlled Unit Injector) for the 7.3L Power Stroke diesel.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline for 4.6L, 5.4L, and 6.8L V10 engines. Diesel fuel for the 7.3L Power Stroke.
Exterior Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 137.1 inches (Regular Cab), 152.4 inches (SuperCab), 172.4 inches (Crew Cab). Length, width, and height vary by cab style and bed length (e.g., 8 ft bed is common).
Cargo Dimensions:
Bed lengths typically range from 6.75 ft to 8 ft. Payload capacity varies by configuration, often exceeding 2,000-4,000 lbs.
Weight Specifications:
Curb weight varies significantly by configuration, typically from 5,500 lbs to 7,500+ lbs. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) up to 10,000-11,500 lbs.
Towing Capacity:
Towing capacity varies significantly by engine, axle ratio, drivetrain (2WD/4WD), and chassis configuration, often ranging from 8,000 lbs to over 12,000 lbs for properly equipped models.
Service Intervals:
Typical intervals include: Oil change every 3,000-5,000 miles (or 6 months, whichever comes first) for gasoline, 5,000-7,500 miles for diesel. Air filter replacement based on driving conditions. Transmission fluid and filter service typically every 30,000-60,000 miles. Coolant flush every 30,000-50,000 miles. Differential fluid service every 30,000-50,000 miles. Brake fluid replacement every 2-3 years. Spark plug replacement for gasoline engines (e.g., around 100,000 miles for platinum plugs).
Brake Service Intervals:
Brake pad and rotor inspection at every oil change. Replacement intervals depend heavily on driving conditions, typically 30,000-70,000 miles for front pads and rotors, and rear shoes/pads may last longer.
Fluid Specifications:
Engine Oil: SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline (API classification specified in manual), SAE 15W-40 API CG-4 or CH-4 for 7.3L Power Stroke diesel. Transmission Fluid: MERCON V or MERCON for automatic transmissions, GL-1 or GL-4 gear oil for manual transmissions. Coolant: Ford Premium Engine Coolant (green) or equivalent, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Brake Fluid: DOT 3.
Coolant Capacity:
Approximately 19-20 quarts (18-19 liters) for V8/V10 gasoline engines, slightly more for diesel. Always consult the manual for exact capacity based on configuration.
Engine Oil Capacity:
4.6L/5.4L V8: 6 quarts (5.7 L). 6.8L V10: 7 quarts (6.6 L). 7.3L Power Stroke Diesel: 15 quarts (14.2 L). Always verify with the manual.
Known Issues:
7.3L Power Stroke: Injector o-rings, UVCH (Under Valve Cover Gasket) chafing, fuel injector issues (sticking or failure), pedestal o-rings, turbocharger issues (sticking vanes), exhaust backpressure sensor (EBP) sensor clogging. Gasoline engines: Spark plug blowouts on early 5.4L Triton engines, intake manifold gasket leaks, exhaust manifold cracks. General: Ball joint wear, brake component wear, power steering pump leaks, rust on the body and frame (especially in areas with road salt).
Common Electrical Issues:
Shorts in wiring harnesses, failing body control modules (BCM), intermittent issues with power windows and locks, corrosion on electrical connectors, especially in the engine bay and undercarriage.