Hi I'm New here.
New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Hamilton Canada
Hi I'm New here.
I just bought a 1988 Ford f150 4x4 custom. I have a few questions. All I know is that it is a 4.9 std 4spd with od. What I would like to know is the axle types f&r and the t-case tranny model's.
What are the the big problems I should look out for?
Also how much can I use this truck for towing.
tia Gerry
p.s. Is there any one on this list that is in the area of Southern Ontario
What are the the big problems I should look out for?
Also how much can I use this truck for towing.
tia Gerry
p.s. Is there any one on this list that is in the area of Southern Ontario
Post Fiend
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 9,987
Likes: 7
From: Memphis, TN
Hi I'm New here.
Rear axle is Ford 8.8 semi-floating integral carrier. If your axle code (on the door sticker) starts with "H", it's limited slip (good for off-road, but probably worn out). The front is the Dana 44IFS (Twin Traction Beam) probably with RARE flange-type hub locks (chrome goes behind the lug studs).
The t-case is the Borg-Warner 1356. It would be rare for you to have the electronic shift, especially on a Custom.
Other than the fact that it's dangerously light for trailers above 6000lb, you can tow around the world with it.
But if you have an automatic, add a bigger-than-stock cooler and keep the fluid changed. If you don't have F&R anti-sway bars, get 'em if you wanna tow over 3000lb on the interstate, and go thru the brakes COMPLETELY.
The only REALLY common problem for that truck is the ignition module - Ford is being sued for it right now.
The t-case is the Borg-Warner 1356. It would be rare for you to have the electronic shift, especially on a Custom.
Other than the fact that it's dangerously light for trailers above 6000lb, you can tow around the world with it.
But if you have an automatic, add a bigger-than-stock cooler and keep the fluid changed. If you don't have F&R anti-sway bars, get 'em if you wanna tow over 3000lb on the interstate, and go thru the brakes COMPLETELY.The only REALLY common problem for that truck is the ignition module - Ford is being sued for it right now.
Posting Guru
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 1,785
Likes: 0
From: Paola, KS
Hi I'm New here.
[updated:LAST EDITED ON 04-Nov-02 AT 03:20 AM (EST)]I would agree with the brakes needing to be in check for towing, but we have a 90 F-150 with no sway bars, and a heavy camper top on it and we tow a 7200# travel trailer with no problem and have done so several times. Thats on the interstate at 75mph, when the baby 302 would get it going that good.
I would say that truck should have no problem at all towing a jeep around on a trailer.
I would say that truck should have no problem at all towing a jeep around on a trailer.
Postmaster
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 3,545
Likes: 4
From: Coal Region
Hi I'm New here.
welcome aboard. the 4.9L is a great motor and it will give u a long life as long as u change the oil regularly and dont wind her out much. as for overall problems, most have been stated. good luck wuth ur new truck :-)
New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 3
Likes: 0
From: Hamilton Canada
Hi I'm New here.
Thank you all very much for your replys. So with it being a 8.8 rear end that is good. cause that is what I have in my Jeep. And yes I plan on towing the Jeep on a flat bed and maybe a camper in the box. But no major traveling. Maybe a few hours tops.
Gerry:-)
Gerry:-)
