This comprehensive service manual covers the Mercury Capri models produced from 1979 through 1986. Built on the versatile Fox Body platform, shared with iconic vehicles like the Ford Mustang, the Capri offered a distinct compact sport coupe experience, often noted for its European styling cues and competitive positioning against rivals such as the Chevrolet Camaro and Datsun 280ZX. Available with a range of inline-4 and V6 engines, including turbocharged variants, and manual or automatic transmissions, these vehicles provided an engaging driving experience for their era. This manual details all styles and configurations, offering in-depth information to ensure the longevity and performance of your Capri.
This service repair manual provides essential information for the maintenance, diagnosis, and repair of your Mercury Capri. It covers all major vehicle systems, including the engine, transmission, brake system, electrical system, suspension, steering, cooling, fuel system, and HVAC. Within its hundreds of pages, you will find detailed, step-by-step repair procedures, advanced troubleshooting guides, and clear explanations of complex systems, all accompanied by numerous illustrations and diagrams. Whether you are a seasoned professional technician or a dedicated owner, this manual serves as an indispensable resource for keeping your Capri in optimal condition.
Model Years Covered:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Platform:
Fox Body (shared with Ford Mustang, Fairmont, Zephyr, Granada, LTD II, Cougar, Thunderbird, etc.)
Vehicle Segment:
Compact sport coupe (often perceived as a sporty alternative to mainstream Ford models)
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica Supra, Mazda RX-7 (early models)
Design Inspiration:
European styling cues, particularly influenced by British sports cars of the era (e.g., Jaguar XJ-S)
User Friendliness:
Easy to use, numbered instructions, bold figure numbers for quick matching
Visual Aids:
Hundreds of illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged insets
General Coverage:
Complete official full service repair manual for all styles
Estimated Pages:
Hundreds of pages (specific count not provided but implied to be substantial)
Type:
Service Repair Manual
Engine Service Repair:
Yes
Transmission Service Repair:
Yes
Fuel Injection Fuel System:
Yes
Heater Air Conditioning:
Yes
Engine Control System:
Yes
Periodic Lubrication:
Yes
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step guidance, detailed substeps, numbered instructions
Diagnostic Capabilities:
Advanced troubleshooting guide for diagnosing and correcting problems
Content Source:
Information used by professional technicians and mechanics
Readability:
Requires Adobe PDF Reader
Printability:
Printable without any restriction, individual pages or entire manual
Digital Delivery:
Download link on checkout page
Digital Storage:
Can be saved to hard drive or burned to CD-ROM
Engine Type:
Inline-4 (2.3L/140ci) and V6 (2.8L/171ci)
Engine Type:
Inline-4 (2.3L/140ci - including Turbocharged variants) and V6 (2.8L/171ci)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 88 hp (base 2.3L) to 175 hp (2.3L Turbocharged 'C-P' engine)
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 lb-ft (base 2.3L) to 205 lb-ft (2.3L Turbocharged 'C-P' engine)
Injection Carburetion:
Carbureted and Fuel Injected (EFI) depending on year and engine option
2.3L Ohc:
Lima (code 'Y' typically)
2.8L V6:
Cologne (code '4' typically)
2.3L Turbo:
C-P (code 'W' or '5' typically)
Type:
4-speed manual (common), 5-speed manual (later years)
Type:
3-speed automatic (C-3, C-4, or AOD depending on year/engine)
Manual Gear Ratios:
Covered in detail within the manual for specific transmissions
Body Styles:
2-door hatchback coupe
Wheelbase:
Approx. 94.4 inches (2398 mm)
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,500 - 2,900 lbs (1134 - 1315 kg) depending on engine and options
Crash Testing:
Information may be referenced within the manual, typical for the era (lap and shoulder belts, padded dash)
Brakes:
Front disc, rear drum standard; optional front/rear discs on performance models
Restraints:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder), padded interior surfaces
Audio System:
AM/FM radio, optional cassette player, aftermarket head units common
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models
No Digital Connectivity:
N/A (vehicles pre-date modern digital connectivity standards)
Oil Change:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for exact specifications based on engine and driving conditions)
Tune Up:
Spark plugs, timing, filter replacement at intervals specified in manual (e.g., 30,000-60,000 miles)
Engine Oil:
API SG or higher, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (verify in manual)
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically 50/50 mix with distilled water)
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Mercon or Type F (depending on transmission model, consult manual)
Electrical Corrosion:
Common in vehicles of this era due to wiring materials and environmental exposure
Rust And Body Corrosion:
Prone to rust, especially around wheel wells, rocker panels, and rear quarters
Carburetor Issues:
Wear and tear on carburetors can lead to rough idling, poor fuel economy, and starting problems
Suspension Wear:
Ball joints, tie rod ends, bushings can wear out over time, affecting steering and handling
Oil Filter 2.3L:
e.g., Motorcraft FL-1A, Wix 51515 (consult manual or parts catalog for exact fitment)
Manufacturer:
Mercury (a division of Ford Motor Company)
First Generation:
Launched in 1970 as a rebadged Cougar XR-7. The model covered here (1979-1986) is the second generation, based on the Ford Fox platform.
Manufacturing Location:
Saint Thomas, Ontario, Canada (Ford's Oakville Assembly Plant was also used for some Fox-body models)
Market Perception:
Often considered a stylish and affordable sporty coupe, offering a European-inspired alternative.
