Category Bullnose Bill Answer

Bullnose Bill Answer
by Ed
How do I change the spark plugs on my Bullnose F-150?
Bullnose Bill Answers Ford Truck Questions

Changing the spark plugs on your 1985 Ford F150 is a relatively simple maintenance task that can keep your engine running smoothly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Tools and Materials Needed:

Torque wrench (optional but recommended)

  • New spark plugs (make sure they are gapped correctly for your engine)
  • Spark plug socket
  • Ratchet and extension
  • Spark plug gap tool
  • Anti-seize compound (optional)
  • Dielectric grease (optional)
Instructions:
  1. Preparation:
    • Make sure the engine is cool before you start working on it.
    • Disconnect the negative battery terminal to avoid any accidental electrical discharge.
  2. Locate the Spark Plugs:
    • On your 1985 Ford F150, the spark plugs are located on the sides of the engine block. Depending on your engine model, there should be either 6 or 8 spark plugs.
  3. Remove the Spark Plug Wires:
    • Gently twist and pull the spark plug wire boot off the first spark plug. Do this one at a time to avoid mixing up the wires.
    • You might want to label the wires or take a photo to ensure you reconnect them correctly.
  4. Remove the Old Spark Plug:
    • Use the spark plug socket and ratchet with an extension to remove the old spark plug. Turn counterclockwise to loosen and remove it.
    • If the spark plug is difficult to remove, you can use a little penetrating oil and let it sit for a few minutes.
  5. Check the Gap on the New Spark Plug:
    • Use the spark plug gap tool to check the gap on the new spark plug. Refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct gap specification.
    • Adjust the gap as necessary using the gap tool.
  6. Install the New Spark Plug:
    • Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads of the new spark plug (optional).
    • Carefully thread the new spark plug into the engine by hand to avoid cross-threading. Once it’s snug, use the spark plug socket and ratchet to tighten it. Be careful not to overtighten; a torque wrench can help you achieve the correct torque specification.
  7. Reattach the Spark Plug Wire:
    • Apply a small amount of dielectric grease to the inside of the spark plug boot (optional).
    • Push the spark plug wire boot onto the new spark plug until you feel it click into place.
  8. Repeat for Each Spark Plug:
    • Repeat steps 3-7 for each spark plug, working one at a time to ensure the wires are not mixed up.
  9. Reconnect the Battery:
    • Once all the spark plugs have been replaced, reconnect the negative battery terminal.
  10. Test the Engine:
    • Start the engine to ensure it’s running smoothly. If you notice any issues, double-check the spark plug connections and gaps.

And that’s it! You’ve successfully changed the spark plugs on your 1985 Ford F150. If you encounter any problems or have further questions, feel free to ask.

This answer was written by Bullnose Bill, our AI shophand trained on hundreds of Bullnose-era Ford topics. He knows his way around old Ford Trucks.

As with all of Bill’s answers, it has been reviewed and approved by Ed Zenisek, the man behind Bullnose Garage and a real human being.

While we do our best to keep things accurate, always double-check any repair advice and use proper safety procedures. For real-world walkthroughs and more hands-on content, check out Bullnose Garage on YouTube or visit the BullnoseFord SubReddit.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you see an Amazon link on my site, purchasing the item from Amazon using that link helps out the Channel.
Bullnose Bill Answer
by Ed

I need to replace the wiper motor on my F-150.

Can you give me instructions?
Bullnose Bill Answers Ford Truck Questions

Absolutely, replacing the wiper motor on a 1985 Ford F150 is a straightforward task if you follow these steps:

Tools and Materials Needed:

Safety glasses and gloves

New wiper motor

Socket set

Screwdriver set

Pliers

Penetrating oil (optional)

Instructions:
  1. Disconnect the Battery:
    • Always start by disconnecting the negative terminal of your battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical components.
  2. Remove the Wiper Arms:
    • Lift the wiper arms away from the windshield.
    • Use a small screwdriver to lift the tab at the base of each wiper arm, then carefully wiggle and remove the arms.
  3. Access the Wiper Motor:
    • Open the hood and locate the wiper motor on the firewall. It’s typically on the driver’s side.
  4. Remove the Cowl Panel:
    • Remove any screws or bolts securing the cowl panel (the panel just below the windshield).
    • Carefully lift off the cowl panel to expose the wiper motor and linkage.
  5. Disconnect the Wiper Linkage:
    • Use pliers or a small pry tool to disconnect the wiper linkage from the motor. Be careful not to damage the linkage or the motor arm.
  6. Remove the Wiper Motor:
    • Unplug the electrical connector from the wiper motor.
    • Remove the bolts or screws securing the motor to the firewall.
    • Carefully remove the motor from its mounting position.
  7. Install the New Wiper Motor:
    • Position the new wiper motor in place and secure it with bolts or screws.
    • Connect the electrical connector to the new motor.
  8. Reconnect the Wiper Linkage:
    • Reattach the wiper linkage to the motor arm. Make sure it’s securely connected.
  9. Reinstall the Cowl Panel:
    • Place the cowl panel back in position and secure it with screws or bolts.
  10. Reattach the Wiper Arms:
    • Place the wiper arms back onto their respective posts and ensure they’re securely attached.
  11. Reconnect the Battery:
    • Reconnect the negative terminal of your battery.
  12. Test the Wipers:
    • Turn on your ignition and test the wipers to ensure they’re functioning properly.

And that’s it! You should now have a fully functional wiper motor on your 1985 Ford F150. If you have any other questions or run into any issues, feel free to ask.

This answer was written by Bullnose Bill, our AI shophand trained on hundreds of Bullnose-era Ford topics. He knows his way around old Ford Trucks.

As with all of Bill’s answers, it has been reviewed and approved by Ed Zenisek, the man behind Bullnose Garage and a real human being.

While we do our best to keep things accurate, always double-check any repair advice and use proper safety procedures. For real-world walkthroughs and more hands-on content, check out Bullnose Garage on YouTube or visit the BullnoseFord SubReddit.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you see an Amazon link on my site, purchasing the item from Amazon using that link helps out the Channel.
Bullnose Bill Answer
by Ed

My windshield washers aren’t working on either side. What can I do?

Bullnose Bill Answers Ford Truck Questions

Ah, the classic windshield washer conundrum! First, let’s get to the basics. Here’s a quick checklist to troubleshoot:

  1. Check the Washer Fluid Level: Make sure you have fluid in the reservoir. You don’t want to find out it’s empty after a long drive!
  2. Inspect the Pump: Listen for a humming sound when you activate the washer. If you hear nothing, the pump might be shot or disconnected. Give it a tap; sometimes it just needs a little encouragement!
  3. Check the Fuses: Look in your fuse box for the washer pump fuse. If it’s blown, replace it and see if that does the trick.
  4. Examine the Hoses: Check for any kinks or leaks in the hoses that connect the pump to the nozzles. If a hose is cracked, it might need replacing.
  5. Clear the Nozzles: Sometimes, the nozzles can get clogged. Try using a needle or a pin to clear any debris.
  6. Test the Switch: If all else fails, the switch on your steering column might be faulty. A multimeter can help you diagnose that.

If you go through these steps and still have issues, feel free to reach out for more help. Just remember, if at first you don’t succeed, Google is your friend!

If I need to replace the washer pump, how do I do that?

Replacing the washer pump on your Ford F150, Bronco, or Van from 1980 to 1985 is a pretty straightforward task. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get you through it:

Tools and Materials Needed:
  • New washer pump (make sure it’s compatible with your vehicle)
  • Screwdriver (flathead and Phillips)
  • Pliers
  • Bucket or towel (to catch any spilled fluid)
  • Safety glasses and gloves (always a good idea!)
Steps to Replace the Washer Pump:
  1. Disconnect the Battery: Safety first! Disconnect the negative terminal to avoid any electrical issues while you’re working.
  2. Locate the Washer Pump: The washer pump is typically found on or near the windshield washer fluid reservoir. It’s usually a small cylindrical unit with a couple of hoses connected to it.
  3. Remove the Fluid Reservoir (if necessary): In some cases, you may need to remove the fluid reservoir to access the pump. Unscrew any mounting screws and carefully lift it out. Have that bucket or towel handy!
  4. Disconnect the Hoses: Use pliers to gently squeeze the hose clamps and slide them back. Carefully pull the hoses off the pump. Be prepared for some washer fluid to spill out.
  5. Unplug the Wiring Connector: The pump will have an electrical connector. Press the tab and pull it off to disconnect the power.
  6. Remove the Old Pump: There may be screws securing the pump in place. Remove those and take the old pump out.
  7. Install the New Pump: Place the new pump in the same position as the old one and secure it with screws. Reconnect the electrical connector.
  8. Reconnect the Hoses: Push the hoses back onto the new pump and secure the clamps in place.
  9. Reinstall the Reservoir: If you removed it, put the reservoir back in place and screw it down.
  10. Reconnect the Battery: Hook the negative terminal back up.
  11. Test the System: Fill the reservoir with washer fluid, and then test the pump by activating the washer switch. If it works, you’re good to go!

And there you have it! Just remember, if you get stuck, it’s always okay to ask for help. And if all else fails, just remember that sometimes old trucks like to keep you guessing!

This answer was written by Bullnose Bill, our AI shophand trained on hundreds of Bullnose-era Ford topics. He knows his way around old Ford Trucks.

As with all of Bill’s answers, it has been reviewed and approved by Ed Zenisek, the man behind Bullnose Garage and a real human being.

While we do our best to keep things accurate, always double-check any repair advice and use proper safety procedures. For real-world walkthroughs and more hands-on content, check out Bullnose Garage on YouTube or visit the BullnoseFord SubReddit.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you see an Amazon link on my site, purchasing the item from Amazon using that link helps out the Channel.