Maintaining the 1987 Ford Aerostar with the 3.0L 6-cylinder (Engine Code U) requires precision and the right fluid selection. This vehicle relies on consistent lubrication to handle everyday driving, heavy loads, and the wear associated with an engine that has stood the test of time. Using the correct viscosity and high-quality synthetic fluids ensures that internal components remain protected against heat, friction, and oxidation, keeping the drivetrain operating smoothly.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers the highest level of protection with extended drain intervals up to 25,000 miles, reducing horsepower loss and wear on the 3.0L engine.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides a balance of cleaning power and durability, ideal for drivers who want up to 20,000 miles between changes.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Fights sludge and deposits effectively while matching original equipment performance standards for up to 20,000 miles.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Formulated specifically for engines with over 75,000 miles to reduce sludge and improve performance.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Delivers 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns and higher contaminant capacity than many competing filters.
- WIX XP Oil Filter – Features premium media that offers improvements over standard OEM-branded filters for superior protection.
- WIX Oil Filter – A reliable option featuring premium media for standard engine protection needs.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An OAT formulation protecting all cooling system metals for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years.
- AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze and Engine Coolant – A concentrated option that exceeds standards for metallic corrosion and erosion protection.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Withstands heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions.
- AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Guards against leaks and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts for the A4LD transmission.
- AMSOIL Torque-Drive 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Fights thermal and oxidative degradation to provide long oil life in severe service.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS responsiveness and a stable viscosity over a wide temperature range.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Designed for GL-5 differentials, it controls thermal runaway and contains friction modifiers for limited-slip applications.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – Provides advanced wear protection and helps reduce operating temperatures in standard and limited-slip rear axles.
- AMSOIL Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid – Recommended for power steering systems to resist extreme heat and eliminate slippage.
The lubrication needs of this specific Aerostar model are driven by its 3.0L Vulcan engine and A4LD automatic transmission. The engine requires 4.5 quarts of oil when changing the filter, and the oil drain plug should be torqued to 10 ft/lbs. It is important to remove the dipstick during refilling to ensure proper venting. For cooling, the system holds 12.2 quarts of coolant, which should be flushed and replaced with a high-performance antifreeze to prevent corrosion and overheating.
Transmission and Differential Maintenance
The 1987 Aerostar utilizes the A4LD 4-speed automatic transmission. A complete fill requires 9.5 quarts, while an initial fill (after a flush or replacement) is approximately 3 quarts. This transmission is prone to wear if the fluid breaks down under heat or heavy load. Using a synthetic transmission fluid ensures that the torque converter and valve body remain fluid even in sub-zero temperatures. AMSOIL Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluids are engineered to prevent the shudder and hesitation common in older automatic transmissions.
For the rear differential, the lubricant requirements depend on the specific ring and gear ratio (7.5 RG, 8.8 RG, or Dana). The standard GL-5 SEVERE GEAR 80W-90 capacity ranges from 2.5 to 5.1 pints depending on the assembly. The 7.5 inch rear axle, often equipped with a limited-slip differential, benefits significantly from the friction modifiers found in AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR. This prevents the “chatter” that occurs when limited-slip clutches are starved of proper lubrication. Whether the unit is a standard open differential or a limited-slip setup, 80W-90 synthetic SEVERE GEAR 75W-90 is the recommended specification for all temperatures.
Essential Fluids for Longevity
Brake fluid in these vehicles should meet Ford specifications WSS-M6C65-A1. AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 Synthetic Brake Fluid offers a superior alternative to conventional fluids, providing a stable viscosity that resists boiling and absorbing water, which leads to corrosion in the brake lines. For power steering, the vehicle originally called for Type-F fluid, but AMSOIL Super Shift Racing Transmission Fluid is a superior substitute that resists heat better and protects against internal wear.
Seasonal maintenance is also critical for a 1987 model. If the vehicle sits for extended periods, AMSOIL Gasoline Stabilizer keeps fuel fresh for up to 12 months, preventing varnish buildup in the carburetor or fuel injectors. For cold storage, Engine Fogging Oil creates a protective barrier on internal components to prevent rust and corrosion. These steps ensure that when the vehicle is ready to run again, the engine and fuel system are protected from the effects of inactivity.
About the Vehicle
The 1987 Ford Aerostar holds a unique place in automotive history as one of the first front-wheel-drive minivans offered to consumers. It was part of a revolution that redefined family transportation, shifting away from body-on-frame trucks toward a unibody design that offered improved ride comfort and handling. The vehicle was developed to compete directly with the Chrysler minivans that had introduced the segment a few years prior.
The model came with various engine options, but the 3.0L V-6, specifically the “U” code engine discussed here, was a popular choice for balancing performance with fuel efficiency. This engine was known for its reliability in moderate to heavy duty use, often pulling trailers or carrying full loads of passengers. The Aerostar’s unibody construction provided a lower center of gravity than traditional vans, making it feel more like a car while still offering cargo versatility. It was a versatile machine used by families for vacations and by tradespeople for light hauling, serving as a bridge between the rugged workhorses of the past and the modern minivans of today.
Despite its enduring popularity, the Aerostar does face some common issues that owners should be aware of. One frequent problem involves the power steering hoses, which are known to deteriorate and leak over time due to age and heat exposure. Upgrading the power steering fluid to a high-performance synthetic like AMSOIL Super Shift can help mitigate this by resisting thermal breakdown. Another common issue is related to the 4×4 shift mechanism, where the vacuum actuators can fail, leading to a loss of power to the front wheels. Proper lubrication of the transfer case and differential is essential to prevent further wear in these systems.
Transmission slipping is a third notable issue for this model, particularly in the A4LD automatic. As the vehicle ages, the friction plates can wear, leading to delayed engagement. Using a robust synthetic transmission fluid can help maintain the pressure and smoothness required for the clutch packs to function correctly. Finally, the cooling system on these older units can suffer from hose collapse or radiator corrosion, leading to overheating. A high-quality Propylene Glycol Antifreeze like AMSOIL Antifreeze/Engine Coolant helps protect the metal and rubber components from rust and scale buildup, ensuring the engine stays at the correct temperature during operation.
By addressing these common areas of concern with premium lubricants, owners can extend the life of their 1987 Ford Aerostar significantly. The right fluids not only protect against wear but also improve the overall driving experience, making this classic minivan a reliable choice for decades to come.