The Ford F-Series F-250 VIII Regular Cab, equipped with the 5.8-liter V8 Windsor engine and a four-wheel-drive automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration of Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series pickup truck line. Produced from 1986 through 1988, this variant occupied a middle ground within the F-250 range, offering a balance between capability and affordability for buyers needing a heavy-duty truck for work or personal use. It was part of the eighth generation (1980-1986) of the F-Series, known for its squared-off styling and increased interior space compared to previous generations.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-250 |
| Generation | F-Series F-250 VIII Regular Cab |
| Type (Engine) | 5.8 V8 Windsor (210 Hp) 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | 1986 |
| End of production | 1988 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 210 Hp |
| Power per litre | 36.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 414 Nm / 305.35 lb.-ft. |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 5752 cm3 / 351.01 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Max. weight | 2994 kg / 6600.64 lbs. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l / 19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal |
| Length | 5339 mm / 210.2 in. |
| Width | 1778 mm / 70 in. |
| Height | 1923 mm / 75.71 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm / 132.99 in. |
| Wading depth | 869 mm / 34.21 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels permanently, and the front wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | automatic transmission SelectShift |
| Front suspension | Leaf spring |
| Rear suspension | Leaf spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/85 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-250 variant is the 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) Windsor V8 engine. This engine, a Ford mainstay for decades, is a pushrod engine with a cast iron block and cylinder heads. It utilizes a two-barrel carburetor for fuel delivery, a relatively simple system compared to fuel injection, but one that proved durable and easy to maintain. The engine’s valvetrain consists of two valves per cylinder, operated by a hydraulic lifter camshaft. The “SelectShift” automatic transmission, a three-speed unit, was the standard offering. This transmission was electronically controlled, offering smoother shifts than earlier iterations. The 4×4 system employed a transfer case allowing the driver to switch between two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, with a low-range gear for increased torque in challenging off-road conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 210 horsepower and 305 lb-ft of torque provided by the 5.8L Windsor engine, coupled with the three-speed automatic, resulted in a truck that was capable but not particularly quick. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving and hauling moderate loads, but it lacked the responsiveness of the available six-cylinder or larger V8 options. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios were optimized for towing and hauling, prioritizing low-end torque over outright speed. Compared to a manual transmission-equipped F-250, the automatic offered greater convenience, especially in city driving, but at the expense of some fuel economy and driver control. The 4×4 system provided enhanced traction in slippery conditions, making it suitable for both on-road and off-road use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-250 VIII Regular Cab with the 5.8L engine and automatic transmission typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included a vinyl bench seat, a basic AM radio, and manual windows and locks. Optional extras included air conditioning, a more powerful AM/FM stereo, upgraded interior trim, and a sliding rear window. The Regular Cab configuration offered a simple, no-frills interior focused on functionality. The trim level generally fell in the mid-range of the F-250 lineup, positioned above the base models with smaller engines but below the higher-end trims with larger V8s and more luxurious features.
Chassis & Braking
The F-250’s chassis was built around a heavy-duty ladder frame, designed to withstand the stresses of hauling and towing. Suspension consisted of leaf springs at both the front and rear, providing a firm ride and excellent load-carrying capacity. Front brakes were disc brakes, offering better stopping power than drum brakes, while the rear brakes remained drum brakes. Power steering was standard, making the truck easier to maneuver, especially at low speeds. The tires, typically 215/85R16, were designed for durability and all-terrain capability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The F-250 with the 5.8L engine and automatic transmission was generally well-received by buyers who needed a capable and reliable work truck. Critics noted its solid construction and ample power for most tasks, but also pointed out its relatively basic interior and lack of refinement compared to some competitors. Compared to the smaller 4.9L inline-six engine, the 5.8L offered significantly more power and towing capacity. However, the 5.8L was less fuel-efficient. Compared to the larger 6.9L diesel engine, the 5.8L offered lower initial cost but significantly less torque and fuel economy. The automatic transmission was praised for its ease of use, but some reviewers preferred the greater control offered by a manual transmission.
Legacy
The 5.8L Windsor V8 engine, while eventually superseded by more modern designs, proved to be a remarkably durable and reliable powerplant. Many examples of F-250s equipped with this engine are still on the road today, a testament to its robust construction. The automatic transmission, while not as sophisticated as modern units, also proved to be relatively reliable. In the used car market, these F-250s are often sought after by enthusiasts and those looking for a classic American work truck. Maintenance is generally straightforward, and parts are readily available. However, potential buyers should be aware of common issues such as carburetor problems and potential for rust, particularly in areas with harsh winters.
