What engine came in a 1986 Ford F250?
In 1986, the Ford F-250 did not use a single engine. Buyers could choose from several gasoline V8 options, and a diesel was available on many models. The exact engine depended on the truck’s configuration, cab/bed combination, and options package.
This article outlines the main engine choices for the 1986 Ford F-250, how to identify which engine a specific truck has, and what these engines meant for performance, durability, and upkeep. Because the F-Series offered multiple configurations that year, it’s important to verify the exact powerplant on any individual vehicle.
Engine options in 1986 Ford F-250
Gasoline engines
Gasoline power was the baseline for most 1986 F-250s, with several V8 and inline-6 options available depending on the build. These engines emphasized broad availability and straightforward maintenance.
- 7.5 L V8 (460 cubic inches) gasoline engine
- 5.8 L V8 (351W) gasoline engine
- 4.9 L Inline-6 (300 cubic inches) gasoline engine
Gasoline options provided solid torque for hauling and everyday work use, with horsepower and torque varying by exact displacement and tune. Availability depended on the specific model year build and market.
Diesel engines
The diesel option for many 1986 F-250s was the International/Navistar-built IDI engine, preferred by buyers seeking durability and high low-end torque for towing and heavy workloads.
- 6.9 L IDI diesel engine
Diesel variants offered strong torque at low RPM, which made them popular for long-term towing and heavy-duty applications. They also required different fuel and maintenance considerations compared with gasoline engines.
How to verify the exact engine in your 1986 F-250
To confirm the precise powerplant in a given 1986 F-250, use several comparison and verification methods. This helps ensure you know the engine for maintenance, parts compatibility, and value:
- Check the engine stamp or tag on the side of the engine block for displacement and model codes.
- Look at the vehicle’s identification and build documentation (VIN, build sheet, or window sticker) for the original engine code.
- Inspect the engine bay for distinctive visual cues (valve covers, air intake, turbocharged components, etc.).
- Cross-reference the truck’s trim, cab/bed configuration, and option package with historical Ford catalog data for that model year.
Having the engine code and matching it to official Ford documentation or a trusted parts guide will give you the most reliable result for repairs and restoration.
Performance and maintenance considerations
Engine choice in the 1986 F-250 influenced torque, towing capability, fuel economy, and maintenance needs. Diesel engines typically offered greater long-haul durability and torque but required diesel-specific fuel and injectors, while gasoline engines provided easier access to parts and shorter maintenance intervals. The 7.5 L V8 offered strong everyday performance, while the 4.9 L I6 delivered commendable efficiency for lighter use.
When evaluating an older F-250, consider how you’ll use the truck, fuel availability, and the maintenance history of the chosen engine. Diesel engines, for example, may require more specialized knowledge and fuel system care, but they tend to maintain performance over high-mileage workloads.
Summary
The 1986 Ford F-250 offered multiple engine choices rather than a single standard powerplant. Gasoline options included 7.5 L (460), 5.8 L (351W), and 4.9 L (300) in various configurations, while a 6.9 L IDI diesel was available on many models for heavy-duty use. To determine the exact engine in a specific truck, verify engine codes via stamping, VIN/build documents, and the truck’s original configuration.
For prospective buyers or restorers, knowing the precise engine helps with parts compatibility, maintenance planning, and evaluating the vehicle’s value. Always confirm the engine type before purchasing or undertaking significant restoration work.
Which F-250 to stay away from?
You should generally avoid the 2006, 2008, 2011, and 2017 Ford F-250 models due to common issues like the "death wobble," transmission problems, and other electrical and brake failures. Other models to approach with caution include the 2003-2007 F-250 with the 6.0L Power Stroke engine due to potential engine problems, and the 2008-2010 F-250 with the 6.4L engine, which has known EGR cooler issues.
Model years to avoid
- 2006: Known for stalling, power steering loss, and brake issues, along with the death wobble.
- 2008: Has serious brake problems and the death wobble.
- 2011: Often experiences transmission issues, rough shifting, and the death wobble.
- 2017: Plagued by the "death wobble" and other suspension/steering problems.
- 2017-2019: Specifically mentioned as being susceptible to the "death wobble".
- 2003-2007 (with 6.0L Power Stroke engine): Prone to head gasket and oil cooler failures in stock form.
- 2008-2010 (with 6.4L Power Stroke engine): Has common EGR cooler failures that can lead to coolant loss and overheating.
General issues to be aware of
- Death Wobble: This is a recurring problem in several model years, especially 2008, 2011, and 2017, and is related to suspension and steering components.
- Transmission Problems: Rough shifting and unexpected gear changes have been reported in certain years, notably 2011.
- Engine Issues: Specific diesel engines have known problems. The 6.0L and 6.4L engines are especially notorious for requiring significant maintenance or bulletproofing to be reliable.
- Brake Failures: Some models have reported brake problems, including sudden failure and issues with the brake booster.
How much is a 1986 Ford F250 worth today?
The value of a 1986 Ford F-250 varies widely, from a typical price of around $15,000-$18,000 for a good condition, average spec model to as high as $34,560 for a top-tier example sold at auction. Factors like condition, mileage, original features, and trim level (XL, XLT, etc.) significantly impact its final price. For example, high-spec, low-mileage trucks with original features can command prices upwards of $20,000, notes Classic.com and Bring a Trailer.
Factors influencing value
- Condition and mileage: Trucks in "original and highly original" condition with low mileage are worth significantly more, with prices potentially reaching over $20,000.
- Trim level: Higher trims like the XLT Lariat generally have a higher value than the base XL or STD models.
- Engine and drivetrain: Special configurations like a 4x4 or a specific engine choice can also influence the price.
- Recent sale prices: Past auction sales provide a good benchmark for value. A high-quality example sold on Bring a Trailer for $24,000, while other private sales have reached $15,000-$20,000, notes Bring a Trailer and Reddit.
Where to find more information
- Classic.com: Provides a marketplace of past sales and current listings for a variety of 1986 F-250s, including specific examples with their selling prices.
- Hagerty Valuation Tools: Offers a valuation tool and lists historical auction prices, with an average price of around $16,565 for a good condition 3/4 Ton model.
- Bring a Trailer: A popular auction site where classic and unique vehicles, including 1986 Ford F-250s, are sold. Recent auction results can be found here.
What engine options were in the 86 F250?
Engine options included the 4.9L inline-six, 5.8L V8, 7.5L V8, and a 6.9L diesel V8, offering a range of power choices. Its four-wheel-drive system made it capable of handling rough terrain and heavy loads.
What engine is in a 1985 Ford F-250?
Today if you want big grunt. And power you get a diesel truck.
