What engine does a 1989 Ford F250 have?
The 1989 Ford F-250 did not have a single engine; it offered several choices, with popular gasoline options including the 4.9 L inline-six, the 5.8 L V8, and the 7.5 L V8, plus diesel options such as the 6.9 L IDI and the 7.3 L IDI.
The following sections summarize the main engine options by fuel type and explain how to identify the exact engine in your specific truck, since the lineup varied by configuration and market.
Gasoline engines
Here are the gasoline-powered engines most frequently found in 1989 F-250s, noting that availability varied by cab/bed configuration and market.
- 4.9 L inline-six (300 CID) gasoline engine
- 5.8 L V8 (351W) gasoline engine
- 7.5 L V8 (460 CID) gasoline engine
Gasoline engines in the 1989 F-250 range gave buyers a balance of towing ability and reliability, with the big-block 7.5 L V8 offering substantial low-end torque for heavy jobs.
Diesel engines
For buyers seeking torque and long-haul efficiency, the 1989 F-250 offered two diesel inline-six options.
- 6.9 L IDI V8 diesel
- 7.3 L IDI V8 diesel
Diesel options were favored by fleets and buyers hauling heavy loads, though they typically carried higher initial cost and maintenance considerations.
How to identify your engine
To confirm the exact engine in a specific 1989 F-250, use these steps to read the engine code and cross-check against build data.
- Inspect the radiator-core-support/engine-code sticker under the hood for the engine code and displacement.
- Match the code to Ford’s engine options for the 1989 F-Series using a factory manual or trusted online VIN/engine code databases.
- Verify via the VIN: A 17-digit VIN can be used with Ford’s database or a reputable decoding service to reveal the original engine code for that truck.
Knowing the exact engine helps with parts compatibility, maintenance intervals, and proper towing capacity calculations for a classic F-250.
Summary
The 1989 Ford F-250 offered a diverse engine lineup, with gasoline options including the 4.9 L inline-six, 5.8 L V8, and 7.5 L V8, and diesel options including the 6.9 L IDI and 7.3 L IDI. The precise engine depended on the vehicle’s configuration, and owners can confirm the exact powerplant by checking the engine code on the hood area or radiator support and cross-referencing the VIN.
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.
Is the 1989 Ford f250 reliable?
As a daily driver, work vehicle, or even a show car for enthusiasts, the 1989 Ford F-250 proved versatile. Its maintenance and reliability are one of its strongest suits, with many components being easy to repair or replace by the average owner.
What engine does a Ford F-250 have?
6.2L Flex-Fuel Gas V8
The 6.2L SOHC 2-valve flex-fuel V8 engine is the standard powertrain for all-new 2022 Ford F-250 Super Duty models. The 6.2L flex-fuel V8 engine was engineered to deliver torque at lower rpm and generate high torque through the midrange of the power band, according to Ford.
What engine is in a 1989 Ford F250?
A 1989 Ford F-250 was available with several engine options, including gasoline engines like the 4.9L I6 and 5.8L V8, as well as a larger 7.5L V8 and a 7.3L V8 diesel. The specific engine in any given truck depends on its original configuration.
- 4.9L I6: The base engine was a 4.9-liter inline-six, also known as the 300 cubic inch engine.
- 5.8L V8: A 5.8-liter V8, often referred to as the 351 Windsor, was a popular option.
- 7.5L V8: The largest gasoline engine was the 7.5-liter V8, also known as the 460 cubic inch engine.
- 7.3L V8 Diesel: A 7.3-liter V8 diesel engine was also offered, which was a non-turbocharged International IDI (Indirect Injection) engine.
