Target Audience:
Do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics
Segment:
Compact to Mid-size Pickup Truck
Value Proposition:
Inexpensive way to keep vehicle working properly, saves on dealership service costs
Key Competitors:
Toyota Tacoma, Nissan Frontier, Mazda B-Series, Chevrolet S-10 / Colorado, GMC Sonoma / Canyon.
Manual Attributes:
Hundreds of pages, hundreds of photos/illustrations, detailed substeps, notes/cautions/warnings, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, enlarged inset views, numbered table of contents, combined troubleshooting and electrical service, detailed wiring diagrams.
Powertrain:
Engine Service/Repair, Transmission Service/Repair, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Cooling System, Emission System, Engine Control System, Differential/Drive, Axle
Chassis And Suspension:
Brake System, Suspension, Steering, Chassis/Body
Electrical And Accessories:
Electrical System, Wiring Diagram, Heater/Air Conditioner, Restraint System, Interior
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, tailgate, frame, exhaust system, wheels and tires.
Maintenance And Diagnostics:
General Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Periodic Lubrication
Repair And Overhaul:
Complete disassembly and reassembly procedures for all covered systems
Engine Repair Procedures:
Engine removal/installation, cylinder head removal/installation, piston and connecting rod service, crankshaft service, valve train service, lubrication system overhaul, cooling system components replacement, fuel injection system diagnostics and repair, emission control systems.
Transmission Repair Procedures:
Manual transmission disassembly, inspection, and reassembly. Automatic transmission overhaul, component replacement, valve body service, torque converter replacement. Clutch service and replacement.
Brake System Procedures:
Brake pad and rotor replacement, caliper service, wheel cylinder service, brake line replacement, master cylinder replacement, parking brake adjustment and repair, ABS system diagnostics and component replacement.
Suspension Steering Procedures:
Front and rear suspension component replacement (shocks, struts, springs, control arms, ball joints, tie rod ends), power steering system diagnosis and repair, steering gear or rack and pinion service, wheel alignment procedures.
Electrical System Procedures:
Detailed troubleshooting for starting and charging systems, lighting systems, ignition system diagnostics, instrument cluster repair, body control modules, power accessories, and infotainment system components. Full wiring diagrams for all circuits.
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced troubleshooting and electrical diagnostics with wiring diagrams
Repair Detail Level:
Step-by-step instructions, detailed substeps, hundreds of photos and illustrations, enlarged inset views
Torque Specifications:
Includes specific torque values for all critical fasteners during assembly and disassembly.
Special Tools:
Identifies necessary special tools required for specific repair procedures.
Transmission Types:
Likely includes manual (e.g., 5-speed) and automatic (e.g., 4-speed) transmissions.
Transmission Configurations:
4x2 (RWD) and 4x4 (4WD) driveline options.
Transmission Service Coverage:
Covers repair, overhaul, and maintenance for both manual and automatic transmissions.
Body Styles:
Regular Cab, SuperCab (extended cab), possibly Flareside and Styleside bed configurations.
Seating Capacity:
2-3 occupants for Regular Cab, 4-5 occupants for SuperCab.
Bed Lengths:
Various bed lengths available (e.g., short bed, long bed), specific dimensions detailed in manual.
Curb Weight Range:
Varies by configuration, manual will provide specific GVWR and curb weights.
Audio Systems:
Base to premium audio systems, CD players, possibly cassette players on earlier models. Manual covers speaker replacement and basic system troubleshooting.
Climate Control System:
Manual and automatic climate control systems with A/C. Manual covers refrigerant handling (with appropriate safety warnings), compressor, condenser, evaporator, and heater core service.
Driver Aid Features:
Limited by era. ABS is the primary driver assistance feature. Cruise control likely available on higher trims.
Interior Features:
Power windows, power locks, keyless entry (on some trims). Manual covers electrical components related to these features.
Typical Maintenance Schedule:
Manual will detail intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, spark plug replacement, timing belt/chain inspection (if applicable), etc.
Engine Oil Type:
Likely SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 for gasoline engines, specific API service classification required (e.g., API SN/SP). Manual confirms exact viscosity and specifications.
Coolant Type:
Conventional Green Ethylene Glycol based coolant or a specific Ford-approved blend (e.g., Motorcraft Premium Gold).
Transmission Fluid Type:
Likely Mercon V for automatic transmissions, manual specifies the correct type and capacity.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Common Problem Areas:
Potential issues might include spark plug blowouts (on certain V6 engines), differential seal leaks, minor electrical glitches, and wear items like ball joints and tie rod ends. The manual's troubleshooting section is invaluable for these.
Specific Engine Concerns:
For the 4.0L V6, potential for exhaust manifold cracks and timing chain wear. For the 3.0L Vulcan V6, known for overall robustness but can be prone to head gasket issues if overheated. The manual will detail diagnostic procedures for these.
Chassis Maintenance:
Regular inspection of suspension bushings, U-joints (on 4x4 models), and steering components is recommended. Corrosion can also be a factor in certain climates, which the manual may touch upon in body sections.
