Detailed maintenance schedule for frequent off-road use

[BroncoTrail]

I've been off-roading almost every week including mud, dust, dirt, rocky terrain, and water crossings.

I'd like to put together a detailed maintenance schedule to follow, but I'm no expert. How does this look so far? Please feel free to make suggestions - your input is welcome.

Every 5,000 miles

• Change engine oil and oil filter
• Rotate tires
• Alignment
• Inspect:
  • Automatic transmission fluid.
  • Brake fluid, pads, shoes, rotors, drums, brake linings, hoses and the parking brake.
  • Engine coolant system strength and hoses.
  • Exhaust system and heat shields.
  • Front axle and U-joints. Lubricate grease fittings if applicable.
  • Half-shaft boots.
  • Steering linkage, ball joints, knuckles, suspension, tire-rod ends, driveshaft and the U-joints. Lubricate any areas with grease fittings.
  • Suspension, axles, shocks, control arms, springs, track bars, bushings, mounts.
  • Radiator and other hoses for cracks and leaks.
  • Battery – check for rust or corrosion.
  • Belts, hoses, and clamps.

Every 10,000 miles

• Replace the engine air filter
• Inspect the cabin air filter

Every 30,000 miles

• Change transmission fluid
• Change differential fluid

Every 100,000 miles

• Replace the spark plugs
• Inspect the accessory drive belt(s)

At 150,000 miles

• Change:
  • Automatic transmission fluid and filter.
  • Front axle fluid.
  • Rear axle fluid.
  • Transfer case fluid.
• Replace the accessory drive belt(s).

At 200,000 miles

• Change the engine coolant

Power steering
The electric power steering system has diagnostic checks that continuously monitor the system. If a fault is detected, a message displays in the information display. There is no fluid reservoir to check or
fill.

Fuel filter
The Ford Bronco has a lifetime fuel filter that integrates with the fuel tank. It does not need regular maintenance or replacement.

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[Imonamoose]

Good stuff! Thanks.

 

[mcinfantry]

Alignment performed every 5000?

 

[BroncoTrail]

Alignment performed every 5000?

Is that overkill? Does it only need to be done if the vehicle isn't driving perfectly straight?

 

[Imonamoose]

Is that overkill? Does it only need to be done if the vehicle isn't driving perfectly straight?

Honestly, I think checking balance after some hard wheeling is just due diligence. Haven't had the issue on the bronc but I have lost balance on past trucks after significant rock trails.

 

[KABQ]

Is that overkill? Does it only need to be done if the vehicle isn't driving perfectly straight?

It's not too crazy if you're doing a lot of hard wheeling. When I used to autocross a lot I'd do it before every season and it would legitimately need it each time. Granted minor adjustments on a race car make a much bigger difference in feel than on a Bronco, but still not a bad idea.

 

[telenerd]

Inspect wheel bearings. add to the list.

Remove skids and inspect for dirt and rock build up. Add to list.

Inspect any leaks and damage in vulnerable areas such as rear diff, transfer case, ect.

Review any service bulletins and recalls.

 

[swamp2]

Good idea OP. IMHO waiting for 150k for an transmission fluid (and transfer case) change is way too much, even given that our 10R60s have filters. Does Ford claim "lifetime fluid" for the trans? What is the Ford spec for the diffs?

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