1986 Ford F350 problems
The Ford Super Duty (also known as the Ford F-Series Super Duty) is a series of heavy-duty pickup trucks produced by the Ford Motor Company since the 1999 model year. Slotted above the consumer-oriented Ford F-150, the Super Duty trucks are an expansion of the Ford F-Series range, from F-250 to the F-600. The F-250 through F-450 are offered as pickup trucks, while the F-350 through F-600 are offered as chassis cabs.
Rather than adapting the lighter-duty F-150 truck for heavier use, Super Duty trucks have been designed as a dedicated variant of the Ford F-Series. The heavier-duty chassis components allow for heavier payloads and towing capabilities. With a GVWR over 8,500 lb (3,900 kg), Super Duty pickups are Class 2 and 3 trucks, while chassis-cab trucks are offered in Classes 3, 4, 5, and 6. The model line also offers Ford Power Stroke V8 diesel engines as an option.
Ford also offers a medium-duty version of the F-Series (F-650 and F-750), which is sometimes branded as the Super Duty, but is another chassis variant. The Super Duty pickup truck also served as the basis for the Ford Excursion full-sized SUV.
The Super Duty trucks and chassis-cabs are assembled at the Kentucky Truck Plant in Louisville, Kentucky, and at Ohio Assembly in Avon Lake, Ohio. Prior to 2016, medium-duty trucks were assembled in Mexico under the Blue Diamond Truck joint venture with Navistar International.
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Common 1986 Ford F350 problems
The 1986 Ford F350 is a popular heavy-duty truck known for its towing capabilities and durability. However, like any vehicle, it is prone to certain common problems that owners should be aware of. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues with the 1986 Ford F350:
- Fuel Level Mechanism Failure: Another common problem with the 1986 Ford F350 is failure of the fuel level mechanism, which can cause inaccurate fuel gauge readings and make it difficult to determine the amount of fuel in the tank. This issue may require replacement of the fuel level sending unit or the entire fuel tank.
- Firewall Cracks: The firewall of the 1986 Ford F350 is prone to cracking and tearing around the clutch master cylinder, which can lead to leaks and other problems. This issue may require repair or replacement of the firewall or the affected components.
- Radiator Support Rust: The radiator support of the 1986 Ford F350 is also prone to rusting out, which can compromise the structural integrity of the vehicle and lead to other problems. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help prevent this issue.
- Rear Spring Hanger Rust: The rear spring hangers of the 1986 Ford F350 are also prone to rusting out, which can affect the vehicle's ride height and stability. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help prevent this issue.
- Transmission Woes: The 1986 Ford F350 can experience a variety of transmission problems, including slipping, leaking, and hard shifting. These issues can be caused by low transmission fluid, worn clutch bands, faulty solenoids, or other problems. Regular maintenance checks and timely repairs can help prevent these issues.
- Exhaust Leaks: The 1986 Ford F350 can also experience exhaust leaks, particularly in the up-pipes. These leaks can lead to a significant loss of power and may require full replacement of the affected components.
- Coolant Leaks: The radiator tanks of the 1986 Ford F350 are prone to cracking, which can lead to coolant leaks and potential engine damage. Regular inspections and timely repairs can help prevent this issue.
- Poor Fuel Mileage: The 1986 Ford F350 can suffer from poor fuel mileage, particularly in traffic or at slow speeds. This issue can be caused by the diesel particulate filter's need for fuel during regeneration and may require optimization of the engine's intake airflow or other modifications.
- Fuel in Oil: The 1986 Ford F350 can also experience fuel getting into the engine's oil system during regeneration, which can result in severe internal engine damage. Regular inspections and timely maintenance can help prevent this issue.
In summary, the 1986 Ford F350 is a durable and capable heavy-duty truck, but it is prone to certain common problems that owners should be aware of. Regular maintenance checks and timely repairs can help prevent many of these issues and ensure the longevity and reliability of the vehicle.
How many miles per gallon does a 1986 Ford F-350 get?
Based on data from 9 vehicles, 166 fuel-ups and 21,375 miles of driving, the 1986 Ford F-350 gets a combined Avg MPG of 7.41 with a 0.39 MPG margin of error.
How many miles can you put on a F-350?
Ford F-350 Super Duty leads the pack
The Ford F-350 Super Duty was built for the long haul. A new study found that the truck is more likely to remain in service for 250,000 miles than any other vehicle.
What was the last year the Ford F-350 has a manual transmission?
Ford stopped manual trans in 2010.
What engine is in a 1985 Ford F-350?
4dr Crew Cab Pickup 4x48-cyl. 351cid/210hp 4bbl OHV H.O.
How many miles per gallon does a 1986 Ford F350 get?
Based on data from 9 vehicles, 166 fuel-ups and 21,375 miles of driving, the 1986 Ford F-350 gets a combined Avg MPG of 7.41 with a 0.39 MPG margin of error.
How many miles can you put on a F-350?
Ford F-350 Super Duty leads the pack
The Ford F-350 Super Duty was built for the long haul. A new study found that the truck is more likely to remain in service for 250,000 miles than any other vehicle.
What engine is in a 1985 Ford F350?
4dr Crew Cab Pickup 4x48-cyl. 351cid/210hp 4bbl OHV H.O.
What is a F-350 good for?
2024 Ford F-350 Super Duty Review
This is the F-Series Super Duty truck to get when you need serious towing and hauling capability. An F-350 crew cab with four-wheel drive, the dual rear-wheel setup and the high-output diesel engine is rated to tow up to 28,000 pounds with a conventional trailer hitch, for example.
1986 Ford F350 car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford F350 problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
- Visibility problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1986 Ford F350 vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1986 Ford F350 complaints
The NHTSA has received 17 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1986 Ford F350.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TIRE BLOW OUT ON LIGHT TRUCK WHILE DRIVING AT APPROX 55 MPH THIS IS A SECOND OCCURRENCE WITH THESE TIRES. COOPER REFUSES TO REGISTER THE ISSUE. *TR
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-07-13
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FRONT TIRE ON LIGHT TRUCK BLEW OUT WHILE DRIVING APPR. 40MPH. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-21
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FDJF3719GP
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: A VEHICLE FIRE STARTED UNDER DASH WHILE DRIVING. DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. FEEL FREE TO PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION, AND FILL IN VEHICLE MILEAGE.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-12-22
- VIN: 2FDKF3716GC
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: I/WE HAVE REPLACED THE BRAKE LININGS ON THE 1986 F-350, SAME SIZE, EVERYTHING! TRUCK WOULD HARDLY STOP, BUT BARLY. REPLACED FRONT CALIPERS & BLEAD COMPLETE SYSTEM THROUGH, (NEW CALIPERS! NOT REBUILT!) STILL HAVE STOPPING PROBLEMS? REPLACED REAR WHEEL CYLENDERS WITH NEW/ NOT REBUILT! STILL HAVE SAME PROBLEM? REPLACED MASTER CYLNDER, BLEAD COMPLETE SYSTEM AGAIN! STILL WILL BARLY STOP! HAVE TALKED TO FOUR OTHER F350 OWNERS AND THEY HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM? ONE HAS BEEN TO FOUR DIFFRENT BREAK SHOPS AND STILL HAS THE SAME PROBLEM! IS THERE SOMETHING EVERYONE IS MISSING TO DO IN THE SYSTEM? NEED ANSWER PLEASE! THANKS
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-07
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: I WAS TOLD AT LES SCHWAB TIRE CENTERS THAT THE TIRE IS NOT CURRENTLY ON THE RECALL LIST.*AK( DOT NUMBER: )
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING UNDER NORMAL CONDITION AT 35MPH AND APPLYING BRAKES, THE FRONT BRAKES OVERHEAT BOILING THE BRAKE FLUID, CAUSING TOTAL LOSS OF THE FRONT BRAKES AND LITTLE OF BACK BRAKES. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-25
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE DESIGN FLAW OF REAR HUB FAILED,CAUSING THE SEAL TO GO BAD,RESULTING IN GEAR OIL SPILLING ALL OVER THE REAR BRAKE SHOES. THE BRAKING SYSTEM DOES NOT WORK PROPERLY.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FTJW35L1GC
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEAD LIGHT FAILURE.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: CORROSION OF THE INNER TIE ROD, CAUSING THE TIE ROD TO BREAK WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-01-02
- VIN: 1FTJF35L4GN
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE WELD ON THE TOP SUPPORT BROKE, CAUSING THE SEAT TO GO BACK WHEN APPLYING BRAKES, HAS NOT TAKEN IN FOR REPAIR BECAUSE DEALER INSISTS THAT IT IS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-04-01
- VIN: 2FTJW34L8GC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: KEY/IGNITION SWITCH OVERHEAT.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 2FTJW3516GC
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HEAT GENERATES IN STEERING COLUMN AND WIRING HARNESS/FUSE BOX BURNED. OWHER HAS REPLACED WIRING W/HEAVY DUTY WIRES. *AK
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-13
- VIN: 2FTHF36116C
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER FAIL TO CLEAN WINDSHIELD ON DRIVER'S SIDE. *SD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-13
- VIN: 2FTHF36116C
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED, REPLACED ALL COMPONENTS. *SD
VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-13
- VIN: 2FTHF36116C
- Components: VISIBILITY
- Summary: WINDSHIELD WIPER FAIL TO CLEAN WINDSHIELD ON DRIVER'S SIDE. *SD
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-10-13
- VIN: 2FTHF36116C
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: BRAKES FAILED, REPLACED ALL COMPONENTS. *SD
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1989-06-05
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: DIESEL FUEL INJECTOR PUMP FAILED; PUMPED FUEL INTO ENGINE OIL PAN INTO CRANK CASE; THINS OUT CRANK CASE OIL; FILLS TOO FULL; COULD CAUSE FIRE. TT
1986 Ford F350 recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1986 Ford F350.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
- Consequence: COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
- Remedy: INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:EXTERIOR
- Summary: THE OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRRORS DO NOT MEET THE 50 SQUARE INCH MINIMUM REQUIREMENT OF FMVSS 111-REARVIEW MIRRORS. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: THE STANDARD REQUIRES A MINIMUM DIMENSION FOR REARVIEW MIRRORS TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE FIELD OF VISION WHICH AIDS IN PREVENTING ACCIDENTS.
- Remedy: REPLACE OUTSIDE REAR VIEW MIRRORS WITH UNIT MAGNIFICATION MIRRORS OF 9" X 6" REFLECTIVE SURFACE DIMENSIONS.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1986 Ford F350 problems:
Q&A: 1986 Ford F350 6.9 Diesel - Troubleshooting Common Problems
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1986 Ford F350 Review - Carsurvey.org
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