Target Audience:
Enthusiast owners, DIY mechanics, independent repair shops, and aspiring automotive technicians seeking detailed repair information for the Mercury Capri (1979-1986).
Manual Value Proposition:
Provides a cost-effective and comprehensive alternative to expensive dealership service, empowering users to perform maintenance and repairs efficiently and accurately.
Primary Benefit:
Enables independent repair and maintenance, saving money and ensuring quality of work.
Knowledge Acquisition:
Facilitates deep understanding of the vehicle's intricacies and construction for better ownership experience.
Accessibility:
Instant PDF download for anytime, anywhere repair access.
Years Covered:
1979, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Engine Variants Covered:
All gasoline engine variants offered during the specified model years.
Estimated Page Count:
Over 1000 pages (typical for comprehensive factory-style manuals).
Type:
All-Encompassing Service and Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, engine management, fuel system, cooling system, exhaust system, transmission (manual and automatic), clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles.
Chassis:
Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brake system (front disc, rear drum/disc), wheels, tires.
Electrical:
Wiring diagrams, electrical system components (battery, alternator, starter, ignition system, lighting, instrumentation, power accessories), fuses, relays.
Body And Interior:
Body panels, doors, windows, seats, upholstery, HVAC system, safety restraint systems (seat belts, early airbags if applicable).
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, lubrication, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) if applicable.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, disassembly, repair, reassembly, and installation for all major systems.
Special Tools And Techniques:
Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs, torque specifications for critical fasteners.
Depth:
Comprehensive. Covers everything from basic fluid checks and component replacement to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, electrical diagnostics, and bodywork repair.
Software Requirements:
Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer), WinZip (or compatible decompression utility).
Platform Compatibility:
Windows and macOS
Digital Quality:
High resolution, clear text and diagrams suitable for on-screen viewing and printing.
Binding For Digital:
N/A (Digital Download)
Paper Type For Physical Equivalent:
Likely printed on durable, glossy paper with clear illustrations and diagrams (based on typical factory manuals).
Engine Options 1979-1986:
2.3L (140 cu in) Inline-4 (OHC & Turbocharged), 2.8L (171 cu in) V6 (Cologne), 3.3L (200 cu in) Inline-6, 5.0L (302 cu in) V8 (Windsor).
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 88 HP (naturally aspirated 2.3L) to 210 HP (5.0L V8).
Torque Range:
Approximately 110 lb-ft to 285 lb-ft (depending on engine).
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (various Ford/Motorcraft models), Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) for later models and turbocharged variants.
Standard Transmission Options:
4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (depending on year and engine).
Optional Transmission Options:
3-speed automatic (C3, C4), 4-speed automatic (AOD).
Clutch System:
Hydraulically actuated diaphragm spring clutch.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.2 inches (2647 mm).
Length:
Approximately 183.6 inches (4663 mm).
Width:
Approximately 70.0 inches (1778 mm).
Height:
Approximately 52.5 inches (1334 mm).
Curb Weight Range:
Approximately 2700 - 3200 lbs (1225 - 1450 kg) depending on engine and options.
Crash Test Information:
Vehicle safety ratings from this era are not directly comparable to modern standards. Manual will detail safety system maintenance.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some performance models offered rear discs). Power assist often standard.
Steering System:
Power steering often optional or standard on higher trims. Rack and pinion steering.
Restraint System:
Three-point seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), optional front seat airbags began appearing late in the model run for other Ford vehicles, but less common on Capri.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles (4,800 km) or 3 months, whichever comes first, for conventional oil.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 24,000-36,000 miles (38,000-58,000 km), or as specified by Ford/Mercury for specific transmission types.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30 depending on climate and engine.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mixture with distilled water. Specific type may vary.
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems:
Carburetor tuning issues, ignition system component wear (points, condenser, coil), exhaust system rust, suspension bushing wear, brake component wear, electrical connector corrosion.
Turbocharged Engine Specifics:
Careful monitoring of boost pressure, intercooler maintenance, turbocharger lubrication, and detonation prevention are critical.
Mercury Division Context:
Mercury was positioned as a mid-range brand by Ford, often offering sportier or more upscale versions of Ford models.
Second Generation Capri:
Based on the Ford Fox platform, shared with Mustang, Fairmont, and Capri. Known for its European styling influence and RWD layout. Offered as coupe and hatchback.
Production Location:
Assembled in the United States (Michigan).
Production Period:
1979-1986, with a facelift in 1983.
Automotive Press Reviews:
The Capri was often praised for its sporty handling and styling, especially in its performance variants like the 5.0 V8 model, which competed with the Mustang GT.
Consumer Guides:
Consumer guides of the era often highlighted its value proposition and performance for the price, though reliability could be variable depending on specific components and maintenance.
