Hello. I just bought a 1989 Ford F-250 lxt lariat. 2wd. 5.8l. C6 trainy open differential
looking for recommendations on engine oil, differential fluid, transmission fluid, radiator fluid. Thank you
also anything I should look out for on this vehicle.

 

What kind of mileage is on the odometer?
Any past maintenance history ?
From my experience with these in a fleet , they were quite dependable, provided good service if maintained and were a good workhorse.
Any apparent visable problems, what maintenance if any have you done so far?
You have to keep a close eye on the front brake pads because they provide no warning when getting ready to have metal to metal contact with the pads and front rotors.

 

Being an 89, it likely is due for maintenance. If I just obtained your vehicle, this is what I would do.
1. engine oil- I would use any name brand conventional 10w-30 oil along with a Motorcraft FL1A filter.
2. Do a transmission pan drop and replace pan with one having a drain plug. Pull the vacuum line off the vacuum modulator, if fluid is present, the diaphram is blown and the modulator needs replacing.If it is all rusted up, I would just replace it to avoid issues down the road and is easy when the fluid is already drained. The filter is a screen which you can clean or replace if you like. Adjust the intermediate band, you will need a torque wrench to adjust.The adjustment screw is on the external side of the case. Use Dex/Merc fluid. After a few weeks of driving, you can drain about five quarts out easily with your new oil pan and fill back up. I am not sure if there is a drain plug for the converter on the C6, if there is, you can drain the whole transmission at once.
3. Use a suction pump to pull out as much gear oil as you can from the differential. I would fill back up with 75w-140 oil.
4. Change the fuel filter.
5. Pull lower hose off radiator to drain coolant( works better than using the petcock which might give you problems and doesn't drain as much coolant as removing the hose). Myself, I would change out any questionable hoses at this time along with the thermostat. Refill with "old green" and distilled water to obtain a 50/50 mix.
6.Inspect the brakes, service as needed.
7. Lube all fittings.

 

Thank you