[Wodan]

Well folks, I just picked up a good-looking 86 F250. 168k mileage, in pretty good condition overall for the age. Timing seems pretty good, still got plenty of power as well. Doesn't seem to smoke much at all unless I'm trying to run her hard on a cold morning.

What steps would you folks take to keep an old truck like this running well for the foreseeable future?

 

[Wodan]

Bit of background...

My major issues right now are a shot fuel tank switch valve, pitman arm that's leaking lube and looks like it could use some quality retirement (still pretty tight though), valve cover oil leak, an injector that's leaking a little bit of diesel, and a slightly worn T19 trans. The truck was used to tow frequently, so I should give the breaks and rotors a good evaluation, but the steering linkages seem pretty tight still.

I plan on doing a total oil and coolant change, probably flush the power steering as well (smells like new fluid hasn't been put in there in any appreciable quantity since the truck rolled off the line). Plan on changing the oil, fuel and air filters as well. Already picked up an FL-1995 powerstroke filter for the added oil capacity and better filtration (I don't have an auto trans or 4x4 transfer case, so it should clear everything just fine).

I know I should replace the injectors and probably replace the injection pump while I'm at it, but I just don't have that kinda cash sitting around at the moment. Seems like letting it sit until I scrape together the money could cause me some major headaches though.


What fuel and air filters would you folks recommend, and why?

Fleetcharge coolant has been recommended, as well as Mobil Delcan 15w40.

 

[drinkypoo]

There's no reason to replace injectors or IP unless they seem to be acting up.

I use Napa low silicate EG coolant with a fleetguard pre-preg filter. Pretty easy and cheap install if you get ball valves cheap or omit them. I use Delo 15W40. I'd say that Delo and Rotella T are the most popular oils here.

 

[Matt0987]

I had a 83 F-350. It eventually went to a nephew and is still running today. Except for some wrinkles on the outside where he got too close to a pole it is in good shape.

At about 50,000 miles I had to replace the injection pump. That was well over 100K miles ago. Still good.

I had to replace the water seperator because the valve in the bottom rusted through. It has a Racor on it now.

Change the fluids and filters, as you suggested, so you have a good idea of where you are in their maintenance. I replaced the glow plugs at about 125K or 150K miles because they had gotten weak. Like changing spark plugs.

The starters are a weak link in the system. If the batteries are not strong the lack of amps will make the starter work too hard and it will go out. So, make sure you have good batteries. If you have any question get new ones. If they are 5 year batteries and they are 4 years old, get new ones.

I would change the diff. and tranny oils.

If you tackle the rear brakes buy the seals. You will damage them upon removal. You may want a spare set if you are new to this as you may damage the new ones on your first or second attempt.

Oh, one more thing.... NEVER RUN IT OUT OF FUEL !!! Trust me on this. NEVER.

Wonderful trucks. I loved mine.

 

[drinkypoo]

It's not the lack of amps, it's the lack of volts; it's an OVERABUNDANCE of amps.

100% right about never running out of fuel, killed my marginal IP that way. Had a flaky gauge due to leaky float.