* Engine: Different engines offered drastically different towing capabilities. A gasoline V8 would have a lower capacity than a diesel.
* Axle Ratio: Higher axle ratios (like 4.10) allow for better towing than lower ones.
* Transmission: Automatic vs. manual transmissions also impact towing capacity.
* GVWR (Gross Vehicle Weight Rating): This is the maximum weight of the truck itself, including passengers, cargo, and fluids. The higher the GVWR, the more it can tow.
* Specific Trim/Options: Some options, like heavy-duty towing packages, increased the capacity.
Therefore, there's no single answer. To find the *exact* towing capacity for a specific 1986 Ford F-250, you need to locate the sticker on the driver's side doorjamb or the owner's manual. This sticker will list the GVWR and often the towing capacity. If you don't have those documents, you could try searching online using the specific engine, transmission, and axle ratio of your truck.
Without that specific information, providing a number would be misleading and potentially dangerous.
