I just bought this '88 302 4 speed 2x4. I'm having a problem I'm hoping someone can help me with. After driving for awhile let's say I stop at a store. After coming out the store, I'll get in start up the truck and it won't want to move forward. It seems the brakes have locked up? Because the rear wheel will start spinning out, but the truck stays still. When putting in reverse the truck will move with no problem. It will stay "stuck" for a bit, but will eventually let up and I can drive the truck no problem again. I'm hoping whatever is causing it, it won't happen while the trucks on the highway. Please HELP!

 

Are you setting the emergency brake when you park and go in the store? Are you in a really cold area? I had an old truck like that once that the rear brake shoes would get moisture on them and freeze to the drum when I used the emergency brake. Didn't do it during the summer, though.... Oh, and it would roll backwards ok but not forward when it did this.....

You might find some better help with this issue in these forums:
1987 - 1996 F150 And Larger F-Series Trucks - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
or
Brakes, Steering, Suspension, Tires, & Wheels - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums

 

You have a parking brake hanging up.When you pull the rear drums you will probably find that everything is junk.Aftermarket parts will work fine for the shoes ,hardware,and cylinders.I strongly suggest Ford O.E. parking brake cables as they will last a long time and fit perfectly.Aftermarket cables are more of a universal fit and if you live in a moist or salty environment will only last 6 mos to a year before they seize up.Also,the Dealer cables are pretty reasonably priced considering the better quality and longer service life.When I worked as a tech in upstate NY we used to change a bunch of cables on all models of trucks.We always would use O.E. cables if possible to cut down on customer complaints about stuck cables.

 

that sounds like it would make sense. the parking brake is actually non working. the lever seems to be stuck and won't go down and the pull cord won't release it back up.