The Ford F-Series F-250 VIII Regular Cab HD, equipped with the 5.8-liter V8 Windsor engine and a four-wheel-drive automatic transmission, represents a significant iteration in Ford’s long-running and immensely popular F-Series line of trucks. Produced from 1986 through 1988, this particular configuration occupied a middle ground within the F-250 range, offering a balance between capability and affordability for buyers needing a heavy-duty pickup. It was part of the eighth generation (1987-1991) of the F-Series, known for its modernized styling and improved features compared to its predecessors. This model was primarily aimed at the North American market, where demand for robust work trucks remained consistently high.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Ford |
| Model | F-Series F-250 |
| Generation | F-Series F-250 VIII Regular Cab HD |
| 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 | 3901 kg / 8600.23 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 | 1948 mm / 76.69 in. |
| Wheelbase | 3378 mm / 132.99 in. |
| Wading depth | 922 mm / 36.3 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 | 235/85 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this F-250 variant is the 5.8-liter (351 cubic inch) Ford Windsor V8 engine. This engine, a staple of Ford trucks for decades, is a pushrod engine with a cast iron block and cylinder heads. The 5.8L Windsor utilized 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 featured hydraulic lifters, simplifying valve adjustment. The “SelectShift” automatic transmission was a three-speed unit, designed to provide smooth and reliable operation under heavy loads. This transmission was electronically controlled, offering improved shift quality and efficiency compared to earlier designs. 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 produced by the 5.8L Windsor, while adequate for many tasks, positioned this F-250 below the higher-output engine options available, such as the 6.9L diesel. Acceleration was modest, and the three-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, didn’t offer the responsiveness of a manual transmission or a more modern automatic with additional gears. However, the engine’s strength lay in its low-end torque, making it well-suited for towing and hauling. The gear ratios in the SelectShift transmission were optimized for work, prioritizing pulling power over outright speed. Compared to the diesel variants, this gasoline-powered F-250 was noticeably quieter and smoother, but it lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and long-term durability.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The F-250 VIII Regular Cab HD with the 5.8L engine 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. The interior was functional and durable, designed to withstand the rigors of work truck use. Optional extras included air conditioning, a more powerful radio, upgraded interior trim, and a sliding rear window. The “HD” designation indicated a heavier-duty suspension and chassis components compared to lighter-duty F-250 models. The Regular Cab configuration meant a single row of seating, prioritizing cargo space over passenger comfort.
Chassis & Braking
The F-250’s chassis was a traditional body-on-frame construction, providing a robust and durable platform for heavy-duty use. The front suspension utilized leaf springs, while the rear suspension also employed leaf springs, designed to handle substantial payloads. The front brakes were disc brakes, offering better stopping power than drum brakes, while the rear brakes were drum brakes. Power steering was standard, making it easier to maneuver the large truck. The 235/85 R16 tires were chosen for their durability and load-carrying capacity, rather than performance. The relatively simple suspension setup prioritized durability and load-carrying capacity over ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1986-1988 Ford F-250 with the 5.8L V8 and automatic transmission was generally well-received as a capable and affordable work truck. Critics noted its robust construction and reliable powertrain, but also pointed out its relatively modest performance and fuel economy compared to the diesel options. The gasoline engine was favored by buyers who preferred its lower initial cost and quieter operation, while the diesel engines appealed to those who needed maximum towing capacity and fuel efficiency. Compared to the Chevrolet and Dodge trucks of the same era, the F-250 was considered to be competitive in terms of capability and value.
Legacy
The 5.8L Windsor V8 engine, while eventually superseded by more modern powertrains, remains a respected engine among Ford truck enthusiasts. Its simplicity and durability make it relatively easy to maintain and rebuild. The three-speed SelectShift automatic transmission also proved to be a reliable unit. Today, these F-250s are often found in the hands of collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate their classic styling and rugged construction. While not as sought-after as the diesel variants, the 5.8L-powered F-250s offer a more affordable entry point into the world of vintage Ford trucks. Parts availability remains good, ensuring that these trucks can be kept on the road for years to come. The combination of a gasoline engine and automatic transmission makes them a more accessible and user-friendly option for those unfamiliar with diesel technology.
