Sylvie Willis
The 1986 Ford F150 has dual fuel tanks, and the fuel pump is located in the rear tank. The fuel tank selector switch is located on the dash next to the heater controls. If the fuel pump in the tank is faulty or the rubber 2 hose connecting the pump to the fuel sender units inside the tank is damaged, you will need to access the tank. This can be done by dropping the tank or removing the bed of the truck.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Vehicle compatibility | 1985-86 Ford F150 Truck Side Mounted |
| 1985-86 Ford F250 Truck Side Mounted | |
| 1985-86 Ford F350 Truck Side Mounted | |
| Fuel tank capacity | 19 gallons |
| Fuel tank location | Side mount |
| Fuel pump location | Rear tank |
| Fuel gauge issue | May show zero even after filling the tank |
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What You'll Learn
The front and rear tanks
The 1986 Ford F150 truck features a front and rear fuel tank. The front tank is located on the front side of the truck, while the rear tank is positioned at the back. Both tanks play a crucial role in storing and supplying fuel to the engine, ensuring the vehicle has the necessary power to run.
The front tank in the 1986 Ford F150 typically holds 19 gallons of gas. It is essential to keep an eye on the fuel gauge for this tank, as a low fuel level can indicate the need for a refill. In some cases, even after refuelling, the fuel gauge may remain unresponsive. This issue may be resolved by checking the "Fuel Tank Selector Switch" and verifying power before accessing it through the dashboard.
The rear tank in the 1986 Ford F150 is equally important, but it is separate from the front tank. If the rear tank is not supplying fuel, it could be due to a faulty fuel pump within the tank or a damaged rubber hose connecting the pump to the fuel sender units. Accessing the rear tank may require either dropping the tank or removing the bed of the truck.
Maintaining both the front and rear tanks is crucial for optimal performance and fuel efficiency in the 1986 Ford F150. Regular inspections and timely refuelling can help prevent issues and ensure a smooth driving experience.
When it comes to replacing fuel tanks or parts, there are options available in the market compatible with the 1985-1986 Ford F150 models. These include side-mounted fuel tanks and electric fuel pump assemblies with sending units. It is important to consult a professional or a mechanic for proper installation and maintenance of these fuel system components.
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The fuel gauge
The 1986 Ford F-150 has two fuel tanks, and the fuel gauge may malfunction for several reasons. Firstly, the gauge itself could be faulty. Secondly, there could be an issue with the sending unit in the tank, which may be due to a broken ground wire or a faulty brass float. The brass float can leak and fill with fuel, causing it to become too heavy to float correctly and resulting in an incorrect reading on the gauge.
To diagnose the issue, you can perform a test by putting a jumper on the wire going to the stud on the sending unit and connecting it to a good ground. Then, turn on the ignition and observe the fuel gauge. If it moves, the problem is likely with the sending unit. If it doesn't move, there may be an issue with the wiring or the gauge itself.
Another potential issue could be with the tank select switch. If one of the tanks has been disabled or is not in use, ensure that the switch is set to the correct, functioning tank. If the switch is missing or broken, you may need to jumper the tank select wires to connect the gauge to the working tank.
Additionally, if you are not receiving fuel from the rear tank, the issue could be with the fuel pump in the tank or the rubber hose connecting the pump to the fuel sender unit.
It is important to perform thorough diagnostics and refer to the specific diagrams and instructions provided in the repair manuals to identify and resolve the issue with the fuel gauge in your 1986 Ford F-150.
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The high-pressure fuel pump
The 1986 Ford F-150 is equipped with a rear fuel tank. If you are not getting gas from the rear tank, it could be due to a faulty fuel pump in the tank or a damaged rubber hose connecting the pump to the fuel sender units inside the tank. To access the pump, you can either drop the tank or remove the bed of the truck.
Now, let's focus on the high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) in the Ford F-150. The HPFP is an essential component of the fuel delivery system, responsible for pressurizing the fuel and delivering it to the engine. Here are some key points about the HPFP in the F-150:
- Location: In the Ford F-150, the HPFP is typically located in the engine compartment. Specifically, on the 3.5L engine, it sits on top of the valve cover, while on the 2.7L engine, it is believed to be located at the rear of the heads.
- Ticking Noise: It is normal for the HPFP to produce a ticking noise. This sound is due to its cam-driven design, and the ticking may be more noticeable at idle or low rpm. However, excessive noise can be mitigated with noise-dampening foam, as Ford has done in some models.
- Pressure: The HPFP delivers fuel at high pressure, typically around 400 psi at idle, and increasing with rpm. However, some F-150 owners have reported issues with the HPFP delivering too much pressure, affecting performance and fuel mileage.
- Maintenance and Reliability: Regular maintenance of the fuel system is crucial. When servicing, it is recommended to check the fuel filter and replace it if necessary. Cleaning the fuel tank and replacing the fuel strainer during pump repairs are also important steps. Delphi pumps, for example, are designed to operate under extreme temperatures and improve pump performance.
- Replacement: In some cases, the HPFP may need to be replaced due to failure or excessive wear. It is recommended to use high-quality replacement parts that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. Delphi pumps, for instance, are designed for quick engine starts and to avoid low-fuel hesitation.
In summary, the high-pressure fuel pump in the Ford F-150 is a critical component of the fuel system. Its proper functioning ensures adequate fuel delivery and engine performance. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues are essential to keep the F-150 running smoothly.
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The fuel pump relay
If the fuel pump relay is faulty or stuck, as some owners of 1986 Ford F150s have reported, it can cause issues with the fuel pump not functioning properly, leading to starting problems and, in some cases, a loud whining or humming noise. In such cases, it may be necessary to replace the fuel pump relay or diagnose any underlying issues causing the relay to malfunction.
It is important to note that the fuel pump relay is just one component of the fuel system, and issues with fuel delivery can also be caused by problems with the fuel pump itself, the fuel filter, or other related components. Proper diagnosis and repair should be carried out by a qualified technician or with reference to a reliable service manual.
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The fuel tank selector switch
The 1986 Ford F150 is a classic model with a dedicated community of enthusiasts. If you own one of these trucks and are experiencing issues with the fuel system, you may need to access the fuel tank selector switch. This switch allows you to choose between the front and rear fuel tanks.
To troubleshoot a faulty fuel tank selector switch, you can refer to online forums and resources specific to the 1986 Ford F150. These forums often provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and community support to help diagnose and resolve issues. It is recommended to consult these resources or seek assistance from a qualified technician rather than attempting to tear apart the dashboard or fuel system without guidance.
In some cases, issues with fuel tank selection may be related to other components, such as the fuel pump, fuel sender units, or hoses. It is important to carefully inspect these components and consult with knowledgeable sources before making any repairs or replacements.
For maintenance or replacement of the fuel tank selector switch, you can refer to part numbers and compatible models provided by auto parts retailers. This will ensure that you acquire the correct part for your vehicle.
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Frequently asked questions
The fuel tank selector switch should be on the dash next to the heater controls.
The fuel filters are located under the frame rail on the driver's side.
The fuel pump is located in the tank itself.
The fuel pump in the tank could be faulty, or the rubber 2" hose connecting the pump to the fuel sender unit inside the tank could be rotten and have holes in it.
