Katerina Swanson
The 1987 Ford F-150 is a truck with a variety of features, including a 302 engine and dual tanks. Owners of this vehicle may encounter issues with the fuel system, such as a lack of spark or fuel pump power, leading to difficulties in starting the engine. To resolve these problems, it is recommended to check for fuel pressure and fuel trigger, as well as perform tests using a compression tester, spark tester, fuel pressure gauge, and noid light. Additionally, it is suggested to inspect the fuel lines for clogs and clean them if necessary. Replacing the fuel supply line with a preformed one that follows the factory routing is also an option.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Model | 1987 F-150 |
| Manufacturer | Ford |
| Engine | 300 straight six |
| Fuel System | Dual tanks |
| Fuel Pump | Outboard fuel pump |
| Fuel Line | 3/8" |
| Fuel Line Tool | Screwdriver, A/C-fuel line removal toolset |
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What You'll Learn
The 1987 F-150 has dual tanks
In the case of a 1987 F-150 with dual tanks, it is important to ensure that the tank selector is set to the correct tank. If the selector is set to the front tank when it is empty or disconnected, the pump will only move air, causing issues with starting the engine.
To troubleshoot fuel line issues, it is recommended to drain the gas tanks and check the pickup tube for any clogs. Using regular gas or kerosene/diesel can help clear any built-up gel in the lines. Additionally, it is suggested to disconnect the filter and run fuel backward through the line to ensure that fuel can flow through.
For the fuel lines connecting to the engine, special tools may be required to release the garter springs and make necessary repairs or replacements. It is important to refer to the correct procedures and tools for the specific model and year of the F-150 to ensure safe and proper maintenance.
The 1987 F-150 with dual tanks offers flexibility in fuel usage, but proper maintenance and attention to the fuel system, including the switch valve and tank selector, are crucial for optimal performance and to prevent issues with engine starting.
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The front tank was disconnected
The 1987 F-150 is a Ford truck with a 302 engine and two fuel tanks. The front tank was disconnected, which means that the truck will not start as the pump will only be able to move air.
To address this, you can start by checking the tank selector, which is located between the wiper switch and the steering column. Ensure that it is set to the rear tank. If the selector is set correctly, the next step is to check the fuel lines for clogs. Drain the gas tanks and pull the pickup tube to inspect for any blockages.
You can also perform a test to check if the pump is working. Hook a hose to the tank side of the pump and place it into a small gas can. If the pump is functioning, it may take a minute to prime.
Additionally, you can disconnect the fuel lines and run fuel backward through the line to clear it. This will help determine if fuel can pass through the line. Another suggestion is to use regular gas or kerosene/diesel to put through the fuel line, as this can help cut through any built-up gel.
It is important to note that special tools are required for the fuel lines that attach high on the back of the engine to the fuel rail (manifold) and the Fuel Pressure Regulator (FPR). These lines require specific tools to release the garter springs.
If you are looking to return the truck to stock and utilize both tanks, you may need to acquire certain parts. These may include the switch valve, which was noted as missing, as well as a fuel line replacement kit. The selector valve can be purchased from a Ford dealership, and they will need to order it.
By following these steps and acquiring the necessary parts, you should be able to address the issue of the disconnected front tank and restore the functionality of your 1987 F-150's fuel system.
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The rear tank seems functional
If the rear tank is indeed functional, the issue may lie with the front tank. The front tank may be disconnected, as was the case with one owner who reported a similar issue. In their case, the switch valve had been removed from the frame, and the rear tank was operational. Another owner reported that their front tank had trash in it, so they removed it and only used the rear tank.
You can test whether the rear tank is functional by hooking a hose to the tank side of the pump and putting it into a small gas can. If the pump is working, it should start within a minute if primed.
If the rear tank is functional and the issue is with the front tank, you may need to replace the fuel line. You can purchase a replacement fuel line that runs from the fuel tank to the engine, following the factory routing. These replacement lines are designed to fit precisely and work with factory components.
It is also important to check for any electrical issues that may be causing the problem. One owner reported finding a broken ground wire and several burned-out wires in the wiring harness to the fuel pump relay, which, once fixed, solved the issue.
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The fuel line can be replaced
If your truck is not sparking, you can try a few things to diagnose the issue. Firstly, check the fuel pressure with a fuel pressure gauge. You can also check the fuel trigger with a noid light. The noid light must blink when the engine is cranking over, as this is the signal to the injectors from the computer. You can also try unplugging the injector and plugging the noid light into the injector clip.
If you are still having issues, you may need to replace the fuel line. You can purchase a replacement fuel line that runs from the fuel tank to the engine, following the factory routing. These replacement lines are engineered from factory original lines and are designed to work with factory components. Make sure you also purchase the correct fuel clip sets and hoses for your truck.
There are also a few special tools you may need when replacing the fuel line. For the fuel lines that attach high on the back of the engine to the fuel rail (manifold) and the Fuel Pressure Regulator (FPR), you will need special tools to release the garter springs.
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The fuel line can be repaired
If you want to return your F150 to stock so you can use both tanks, you can do so by re-installing the switch valve. You can also use a fuel line replacement kit to replace the switch valve, as it fits perfectly where the switch should be and includes the right Ford fuel line fittings.
For the fuel lines under the truck, no special tools are required. Simply pry the clip out and pull the hose off, or push the hose on and then push the clip in. However, for the fuel lines that attach high on the back of the engine to the fuel rail (manifold) and the Fuel Pressure Regulator (FPR), special tools are needed to release the garter springs.
You can also try using a preformed fuel line that replaces the original fuel supply line and runs from the fuel tank to the engine, following the factory routing. These replacement lines are engineered from factory original lines and are designed to work with factory components.
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Frequently asked questions
The 1987 F150 uses a fuel supply line that runs from the fuel tank to the engine.
Yes, you can use regular gas, kerosene, or diesel to test the fuel lines.
First, drain the gas tanks and pull the pickup tube to check for clogs. Then, use the recommended fuel to put through the fuel line. Ensure the filter is disconnected.
For the fuel lines under the truck, no special tools are required. For the lines that attach to the back of the engine to the fuel rail and the Fuel Pressure Regulator (FPR), you will need special tools to release the garter springs.
