Model Generation:
First Generation (1981-1990)
Model Years Covered:
1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989
Market Segment:
Compact Car
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional repair shops, fleet maintenance
Key Competitors Of Vehicle:
Chevrolet Cavalier, Dodge Omni, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Rabbit/Golf
Vehicle Key Features Era:
Front-wheel drive platform, fuel efficiency, practical hatchback and sedan body styles, affordable pricing.
Manual Key Features:
Detailed diagnostic procedures, clear wiring diagrams, comprehensive torque specifications, component identification.
Primary Coverage:
Mechanical, Electrical, Body, Maintenance
Secondary Coverage:
Specifications, Troubleshooting, Wiring Diagrams
Estimated Page Count:
1000+
Type:
Workshop Repair Service Manual
Engine Mechanical:
Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, timing systems, lubrication, cooling
Engine Management:
Ignition system, fuel system (carbureted and fuel injected), emissions control
Transmission:
Manual transmission overhaul, automatic transmission overhaul, clutch, drive axles
Suspension:
Front suspension, rear suspension, shock absorbers, springs, steering linkage
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, parking brake
Electrical:
Battery, charging system, starting system, lighting, instruments, accessories, wiring diagrams
Body:
Exterior panels, interior trim, doors, windows, seats, climate control system
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance intervals, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair instructions for all major systems
Diagnostics:
System testing, component testing, electrical diagnostics
Rebuilding:
Complete engine and transmission rebuild procedures
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds and advanced electrical diagnostics.
Engine Codes Common:
CVH (1.6L, 1.9L), HSC (1.3L, 1.6L)
Engine Displacement Options:
1.3L (1297cc), 1.6L (1597cc), 1.9L (1859cc)
Engine Configurations:
Inline-4 Cylinder
Horsepower Range:
Approx. 60-115 hp depending on engine and trim
Torque Range:
Approx. 68-110 lb-ft depending on engine and trim
Carburetor Types:
Motorcraft 2-barrel, Weber (later models/variations)
Fuel Injection Systems:
Bosch L-Jetronic (EFI variants, e.g., XR3i, GT)
Recommended Fuel Octane:
87 Octane (Regular Unleaded)
Standard Transmission:
4-Speed Manual
Optional Transmission:
5-Speed Manual, 3-Speed Automatic
Transmission Fluid Spec Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil
Transmission Fluid Spec Automatic:
Mercon/Type-A/Dexron II
Body Styles:
3-door Hatchback, 5-door Hatchback, 4-door Sedan, 5-door Wagon
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2000-2300 lbs (907-1043 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Gvwr:
Varies by model and configuration, typically around 3000-3300 lbs
NHTSA Crash Test Ratings Era:
Limited data available for this era, generally rated lower than modern vehicles.
Active Safety Features Standard:
None typically
Active Safety Features Optional:
None typically
Passive Safety Features Standard:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts for front occupants), safety glass
Passive Safety Features Optional:
Interior padding, energy-absorbing steering column
Oil Change Interval Engine Oil:
Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions.
Air Filter Replacement Interval:
Every 15,000-30,000 miles or annually.
Spark Plug Replacement Interval:
Every 30,000-60,000 miles, depending on plug type (e.g., copper vs. platinum).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 30,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (check owner's manual for specific climate/engine variants).
Coolant Specification:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (50/50 mix with distilled water).
Brake Fluid Specification:
DOT 3
Common Issues List:
Rust, carburetor problems (stalling, rough idle), ignition coil failure, CV joint wear, cooling system leaks, aging rubber components (hoses, bushings).
Wiring Harness Concerns:
Degradation of insulation on older wiring harnesses can lead to intermittent electrical issues.
Ford Heritage Context:
Ford, an American automotive giant, introduced the Escort in the US as a compact, fuel-efficient alternative to larger models during the fuel crises of the 1970s.
Generation Context:
The first-generation Escort (BF platform) was a significant departure for Ford, leveraging a global platform developed with European Ford operations. It was positioned as a budget-friendly, front-wheel-drive economy car.
Key Changes Within Generation:
Facelifts and powertrain updates occurred, including the introduction of fuel injection on some models and minor styling revisions.
Manufacturing Locations North America:
Wayne, Michigan; Oakville, Ontario, Canada
Production Volume Context:
Highly successful in its segment, contributing significantly to Ford's compact car sales.
