This manual covers the Mercury Capri, a sporty 2-door hatchback coupe produced from 1979 to 1986, based on the Fox Body platform. As a rebadged variant of the Ford Mustang, the Capri offered distinct styling and market positioning. During its production run, it was available with a range of powertrain options, including inline-four and V6 engines, and later V8 variants, paired with either manual or automatic transmissions. The vehicle's design and engineering reflect the automotive standards of its time, emphasizing a balance of performance and style, with features like front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.
This comprehensive workshop service repair manual provides detailed guidance for the complete vehicle, covering service, repair, and troubleshooting procedures. It encompasses all major systems, including the powertrain (engine mechanical and electrical, fuel, emission control, clutch, transaxle, driveshaft, and axle), chassis (suspension, steering, and brakes), and body and electrical systems (body interior and exterior, electrical system, HVAC, and restraint systems). The manual includes step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, and wiring schematics, offering the same depth of information as factory service procedures. It is designed to assist DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, and owners in performing maintenance and repairs, thereby enabling cost savings and ensuring the longevity of their Mercury Capri.
Generation Codes:
Fox Body Platform (Second Generation)
Years Covered:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Target Audience:
DIY enthusiasts, independent repair shops, owners seeking informed communication with technicians.
Comparison To Dealer Manuals:
Provides the same specifications and procedures used by authorized dealer service departments.
Content Elements:
Step-by-step instructions, diagrams, illustrations, wiring schematics, specifications.
Cost Savings:
Enables owners to perform routine maintenance and repairs, saving significantly on labor costs.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Repair, Troubleshooting
Estimated Pages:
Varies by specific edition, typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive coverage.
Type:
Workshop Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Fuel System, Emission Control System, Clutch System, Manual Transaxle System, Automatic Transaxle System, Driveshaft and Axle
Chassis:
Suspension System, Steering System, Brake System
Body And Electrical:
Body (Interior and Exterior), Body Electrical System, Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning (HVAC), Restraint System
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, tune-ups
Repair:
Component replacement, system overhauls, diagnostic procedures
Troubleshooting:
Fault diagnosis, wiring diagrams for electrical issues
Depth:
Comprehensive: From basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component-level repair, mirroring factory service procedures.
Printability:
Fully printable pages
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download)
Engine Options 1979-1986:
Likely includes 2.3L (Lima) OHC-4, 2.8L Cologne V6, and potentially the 3.8L V6, and for performance models, the 4.2L (255 ci) V8 and later the 5.0L (302 ci) V8 Mustang GT variants were sometimes adapted or shared.
Horsepower Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine and year, typically ranging from 85-115 hp for 4-cylinders and 110-150 hp for V6s, with V8s offering higher output (e.g., 140-200+ hp).
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Motorcraft 2150/2100 for V6, Autolite/Motorcraft 4-barrel for V8) and Fuel Injection (EFI) systems were introduced in later years.
Manual Transmission:
Available, typically 4-speed or 5-speed manual transmissions.
Automatic Transmission:
Available, typically 3-speed Ford C-series or C6 automatic transmissions for V8s, and possibly lighter duty automatics for V6/4-cyl.
Transaxle Configuration:
Rear-wheel drive (RWD).
Body Style:
2-door Hatchback Coupe.
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2700 - 3200 lbs (1225 - 1450 kg), depending on engine and options.
Crash Test Performance:
Refer to specific NHTSA or IIHS reports for the 1979-1986 model years; generally reflects safety standards of the era.
Braking:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Optional power-assisted front discs and rear discs on performance models.
Restraints:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), padded dashboard, energy-absorbing steering column.
Audio Systems:
AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, basic speaker systems. Later models may have upgraded stereo options.
Cruise Control:
Optional on some models.
Connectivity Features:
Limited to basic audio connectivity; no modern Bluetooth or USB integration.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, with synthetic oil potentially extending to 5,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
Refer to manual: Common viscosities include 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate and specific engine. API Service SG or higher recommended.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze with water (typically 50/50 mix). Check manual for specific Ford specification (e.g., Ford Premium Engine Coolant).
Transmission Fluid Type Auto:
Ford ESP-M2C166-H or Mercon (Type 'A' Suffix 'A' if specified for older transmissions).
Transmission Fluid Type Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, viscosity typically 75W-90 or 80W-90.
Common Wear Items:
Suspension bushings, aging electrical connectors, fuel delivery components (fuel pumps, carburetors/injectors), exhaust systems, cooling system hoses and radiators.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, rear quarter panels.
Mercury Division:
Ford's mid-tier brand, positioned between Ford and Lincoln, focusing on style and sporty appeal.
Capri Development:
The Mercury Capri during this era was a rebadged version of the Ford Mustang (Fox Body platform), offering a slightly different styling and market positioning, often with unique trim and options.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily assembled in the United States, utilizing the Ford Mustang's production infrastructure.
Historical Accolades:
While specific awards for the Mercury Capri from this era are uncommon, its association with the popular Ford Mustang platform provided a strong market presence and enthusiast following.
