The 1986 First Union 400 was the seventh stock car race of the 1986 NASCAR Winston Cup Series and the 36th iteration of the event.

The race was the first start for African-American driver Willy T. Ribbs, after previous failed attempts in the 1986 season.

The speedway briefly reopened in 2010 and hosted several stock car series races before closing again in the spring of 2011.

The first round was held on Friday, April 18, at 3:00 PM EST, with each driver having one lap to set a time.

Depending on if teams needed it, a select amount of positions were given to cars who had not otherwise qualified but were high enough in owner's points; up to two were given.