Maintaining the 1987 Ford F150 Pickup with its 5.8L V8 engine requires more than just adding fluids; it requires selecting the specific lubricants engineered to meet the demands of this classic American truck. As the vehicle ages, the benefits of using high-quality synthetic fluids become even more critical for preserving engine performance, preventing sludge buildup, and extending the service life of the transmission and transfer case components. Proper lubrication ensures that the truck can handle both daily driving and heavy towing loads with confidence.
Recommended AMSOIL Products
- AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Offers unsurpassed engine protection and allows for up to 25,000 miles of service between changes, keeping the 5.8L engine running smoother and cleaner than conventional oils.
- AMSOIL Extended-Life 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – Provides extended oil change intervals of up to 20,000 miles while delivering superior cleaning power to help keep the engine running smoothly for the long haul.
- AMSOIL OE 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil – A trusted option that fights sludge and deposits with a 100% synthetic formulation, outperforming conventional oils and delivering reliability for everyday driving conditions.
- AMSOIL 5W-30 100% Synthetic High-Mileage Motor Oil – Specifically designed for vehicles with over 75,000 miles, featuring enhanced anti-wear additives and boosted detergents to reduce sludge by 67% and help engines last longer.
- AMSOIL Oil Filter – Designed to provide 99% filtration efficiency at 20 microns, this filter allows lower restriction to keep engine parts lubricated and offers greater capacity for contaminants than competing filters.
- WIX Oil Filter – A premium media option that offers significant improvements over original equipment manufacturer (OEM)-branded filters for those who prefer the WIX brand.
- AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant – An ethylene glycol 50/50 pre-mix formulation that protects all cooling system metals, gaskets, and hoses for up to 150,000 miles or 5 years, ensuring optimal temperature regulation in all seasons.
- AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle 100% Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid – Built to withstand the rigors of heavy towing and elevated temperatures while remaining fluid in sub-zero conditions, providing reserve protection for the AOD or C6 transmission.
- AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 100% Synthetic Gear Lube – The premier choice for front and rear differentials including Dana 44, 50, 60, and Ford 8.8 units, offering advanced protection against wear, rust, and thermal runaway.
- AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid – Delivers excellent ABS and traction-control responsiveness with stable viscosity over a wide temperature range, ensuring safe stopping power for your F150.
Engine Oil and Filter Specifications
The heart of the 1987 Ford F150 is the 5.8L V8 engine, which requires a specific oil capacity to ensure proper lubrication of all moving parts. When performing an oil change, it is essential to fill the crankcase with 6.0 quarts of oil, including the filter. To achieve the optimal flow and venting, remove the dipstick during the refill process to allow the oil to flow freely into the crankcase. Once refilled, always verify the oil level using the dipstick. The oil drain plug should be torqued to between 15 and 25 ft/lbs to prevent leaks or stripped threads.
For the 1987 Ford F150 Pickup 5.8L, AMSOIL Signature Series 5W-30 100% Synthetic Motor Oil is the top recommendation. It offers 75% more engine protection against horsepower loss and wear compared to conventional oils. This viscosity grade is suitable for all temperatures and provides the flexibility needed for both cold starts and high-temperature operating conditions. The product is tested to meet the rigorous demands of the 5.8L engine, protecting turbochargers and high-performance components.
If you prefer a slightly different service interval, the Extended-Life 5W-30 offers up to 20,000 miles of protection with enhanced cleaning power. For drivers prioritizing budget-friendly synthetic performance, the OE 5W-30 is an excellent choice that fights sludge and deposits effectively. Additionally, if your F150 has logged significant mileage, the 5W-30 High-Mileage motor oil contains unique chemistry to handle the needs of older engines, including reduced sludge and improved oil consumption control.
Filtration is just as critical as the oil itself. The AMSOIL Oil Filter (EAO15-EA) is highly rated for its ability to capture small, wear-causing contaminants, allowing for extended service life. For owners who prefer aftermarket brands, the WIX Oil Filter (51515-EA) offers premium media that improves upon OEM standards, ensuring that the oil circulating through the engine remains clean and effective.
Transmission and Transfer Case Fluids
The transmission and transfer case of the 1987 F150 are subjected to significant stress, especially if the truck is used for towing or hauling loads. Proper lubrication here prevents shudder, wear, and costly repairs. The vehicle may be equipped with an AOD 4-speed or a C6 3-speed automatic transmission.
For the AOD transmission, the total fill capacity is approximately 12.3 quarts, with an initial fill of 3 quarts. The C6 transmission requires a total fill of 11.8 quarts, with an initial fill of 5.9 quarts. In both cases, the specification has been updated to Mercon V per TSB 06-14-4. The AMSOIL Signature Series Multi-Vehicle Automatic Transmission Fluid is an ideal match, providing protection against the heat and stress of heavy towing while maintaining fluidity in freezing temperatures. Alternatively, the AMSOIL OE Multi-Vehicle fluid resists harmful sludge and promotes smooth, shudder-free shifts.
For transfer cases, such as the NP208 or Warner 1345/1356 models, specific capacities apply. The NP208 holds 9.1 pints, the Warner 1345 holds 6.3 pints, and the Warner 1356 holds 4 pints. Note that these units often require fluids meeting Mercon LV specifications. The AMSOIL Signature Series Fuel-Efficient or OE Fuel-Efficient synthetic fluids are recommended for these transfer cases to ensure reliable power delivery to the rear wheels.
Coolant, Brakes, and Differential Lubrication
Maintaining the cooling system is vital to prevent overheating, which can be a common issue in older trucks. The cooling system capacity, including the radiator and heater core, is approximately 14.8 quarts. The AMSOIL Passenger Car & Light Truck Antifreeze & Coolant is a 50/50 pre-mix that is safe for all cooling system metals and compatible with various coolant colors. For those who prefer concentrated fluid, the AMSOIL Propylene Glycol Antifreeze offers a longer service life of up to 150,000 miles and provides superior corrosion protection.
For the braking system, the 1987 F150 requires a DOT 3 specification fluid. The AMSOIL DOT 3 and DOT 4 100% Synthetic Brake Fluid exceeds OEM requirements and ensures stable viscosity for responsive pedal feel and ABS functionality. It is designed to resist moisture absorption and boiling, maintaining safety in demanding driving conditions.
Finally, the differentials require robust gear lubrication. Whether the truck is equipped with a Dana 44, Dana 50, Dana 60, Ford 8.8, or 9 RG rear axle, the recommended lubricant is a GL-5 rated gear lube. For most applications, AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 80W-90 is the ideal choice, providing long oil life, rust protection, and thermal runaway control. For limited-slip differentials, this lube contains the necessary friction modifiers to prevent chatter. Heavier grades like 75W-90 or 75W-110 can also be used depending on specific drive characteristics and ambient temperatures.
About the Vehicle
The 1987 Ford F150 Pickup represents a significant era in American automotive history, standing as a pillar of reliability and utility. Part of the eighth generation of the F-Series (introduced in 1980), this model year continued the lineage of the F-100 and F-150 that has defined truck ownership for decades. The 1987 model was a transitional point in the F-Series timeline, benefiting from updated styling and interior improvements that enhanced comfort without sacrificing the rugged character that owners demanded.
The 5.8L (351 cubic inch) V8 engine was a popular and powerful choice for the F150 during this period. Known as the 351M or 351C in earlier years, this iteration of the engine provided a strong balance of torque and horsepower, making the F150 a capable light-duty truck for work or recreational use. It was designed to haul loads and tow trailers, a capability that remains highly valued by collectors and daily drivers alike. The vehicle’s platform offered a blend of durability and on-road manners that allowed it to compete effectively in a crowded market dominated by domestic competitors.
Owners of the 1987 F150 often appreciate its straightforward mechanical design. Unlike modern vehicles laden with complex electronics, this truck relies on proven engineering that is accessible to DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics. This makes it an excellent candidate for long-term ownership, provided that maintenance is performed correctly. The truck’s reputation is built on its ability to handle demanding tasks, from farm work to off-road adventures, thanks to robust frames and reliable suspension systems.
However, like any vehicle approaching forty years of age, the 1987 F150 can face specific challenges. Using high-quality AMSOIL synthetic lubricants can help address several common issues associated with older trucks:
- Sludge and Deposit Buildup: Over decades, conventional oil can break down and leave sludge in the engine. Switching to AMSOIL High-Mileage Motor Oil helps clean out existing deposits and prevents new ones, restoring power and reducing oil consumption.
- Transmission Shift Harshness: Old or degraded transmission fluid can cause the AOD or C6 transmission to shift roughly or shudder. Regular changes with AMSOIL Automatic Transmission Fluid maintain proper friction characteristics, ensuring smooth gear changes and extending transmission life.
- Differential Noise and Wear: Limited-slip differentials can chatter, and standard gears can wear under heavy loads. Using AMSOIL SEVERE GEAR® 75W-90 with its specialized friction modifiers eliminates chatter and protects gear teeth from wear, especially in heavy-duty applications.
- Cooling System Corrosion: Older cooling systems are prone to rust and corrosion, which can lead to leaks or overheating. The AMSOIL Antifreeze & Coolant provides superior corrosion inhibition for all metals in the system, protecting the radiator and engine block from degradation.
Maintaining the 1987 Ford F150 Pickup with the right fluids is more than just a maintenance task; it is a commitment to preserving a classic American icon. By using synthetic lubricants, owners can ensure that their truck continues to perform reliably for years to come, regardless of how it is used.