85 f150's computer work in a 88 f150??

Question

I'm looking at another truck that only needs new brake lines and a computer. but i was wondering if this truck is worth it would the comp in the 85 ford work in the 88?

Answer 1

Heres the deal on your question. The standard answer is NO. It wont work ... BUT... IF the wheels are the same size from the factory for each truck, and if the plug from the harness to the computers are identical, and the obvious like engine size, number of gears, same kind of trans meaning manual or automatic. Those trucks are both using the OBD-I command control computer system. Though it was a very basic system, it is very forgiving as well as stable and tough. If everything matches up as I have listed, then YES, it will work as long as the comp in the 85 is still good.  

Answer 2

you have to match the numbers of the computer up on those ,and they have to be the exact same numbers also,nothing but an identical one will work right on it,if both trucks had the same options its possible the computers may be the same,but go by the numbers,if they dont match it wont work right,and your truck still has the obd-1 system so that wont be a problem,good luck with it.

Answer 3

you know i think it would but not the 89.i'm certain up to 87BUTT; take your numbers off the computer by a ford dealer parts department. ask them i'm sure they'd like to help.eng.s have to match size for this to work.check in to a new one autozone.com  

Answer 4

The answer is no, the two trucks will have totally different Engine Management Systems....there are many variations of computer vs sensor configurations.

An example is One will have a 5.8 with manual trans (Federal emissions)

another will have 5.8 with Auto Trans (CA emissions)

Yet Another will have 5.8 with AOD with (CA or Fed emissions)

The best thing to do is to call your local dealership to see what computers you can use given your VIN number and or your current computer part number.

The 88's still had OBD 1, which is still a batch fired, speed density system.

I switched my 5.8 Speed density setup to a MAF-equipped sequential fired system, and the mileage increased....2 years and I have recouped the cost of the change-over.

Look up ford-trucks.com for posts on this subject.

Answer 5

probably not 96 and newer used obd2

Answer 6

Go to www.car-part.com.  Find a computer that has the same numbers as the computer you need replaced.  Buy the computer and voila.  You can probably do this for less than $50.