🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercury

Model:

Capri

Year Range:

1979-1986

👋 Introduction

Target Audience:

Owners of 1979-1986 Mercury Capri vehicles looking to perform their own maintenance and repairs.

Value Proposition:

Saves significant costs associated with dealership or independent mechanic labor rates by empowering owners with detailed repair instructions.

Instruction Style:

Easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions with accompanying images and diagrams.

Accessibility:

Instant download upon payment, accessible across multiple devices.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Shop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

Compatibility:

PC, MAC, Tablets, Smartphones

Estimated Pages:

The exact page count is not specified in the product information, but comprehensive shop manuals for this era typically range from 800 to 1500+ pages to cover all models and systems in detail.

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine:

Comprehensive engine overhaul, diagnosis, and repair for all covered engine variants.

Transmission:

Manual and automatic transmission service, repair, and adjustment procedures.

Brakes:

Detailed procedures for hydraulic systems, disc/drum brake overhaul, parking brake, and ABS (if applicable to later models).

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension component replacement, alignment specifications, steering system diagnosis and repair.

Electrical System:

Wiring diagrams for all vehicle systems, starter, alternator, battery, ignition system, lighting, accessories, and troubleshooting.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system diagnosis and repair, carburetor service (for earlier models), fuel pump, fuel filter replacement.

Cooling System:

Radiator, water pump, thermostat, heater core, and cooling fan service.

Exhaust System:

Exhaust manifold, catalytic converter, muffler, and pipe replacement.

Body Interior:

Body panel repair, door mechanisms, glass replacement, interior trim, seats, and convertible top service.

Climate Control:

Heater, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system service and repair.

Chassis:

Frame repair, body mounting, exhaust hangers, fuel tank, and related chassis components.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug service, fluid checks and top-offs, belt adjustments.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic flowcharts and symptom-based troubleshooting for common issues.

Component Repair Overhaul:

Step-by-step instructions for rebuilding or replacing major components like engines, transmissions, alternators, etc.

Specifications Data:

Torque specifications, clearance measurements, fluid capacities, and diagnostic parameters.

Timing Belt Chain:

Inspection and replacement procedures for timing components.

Lighting System Repair:

Headlights, taillights, turn signals, interior lighting, and related electrical troubleshooting.

Wheel Alignment Specifications:

Detailed alignment angles (caster, camber, toe) and procedures.

Depth Of Information:

In-depth, professional-quality coverage suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians.

Diagnostic Capabilities:

Covers diagnostic procedures for mechanical, electrical, and fuel systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Image Resolution:

High-resolution images and diagrams for clarity.

Delivery Method:

Instant Digital Download

Viewing Platforms:

Viewable on any device with a PDF reader.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options 1979-1982:

2.3L OHC (Pinto) Inline-4, 2.8L Cologne V6, 3.3L Thriftpower Inline-6

Engine Options 1983-1986 (Fox Body):

2.3L OHC Turbocharged Inline-4 (50-state and California versions), 3.8L Essex V6 (optional on some models)

Engine Codes:

Common codes include 'P' for Pinto OHC 4-cyl, 'L' for 2.8L V6, 'Y' for 3.3L I6, 'T' for 2.3L Turbo. Consult manual for specific VIN decoding.

Horsepower Range:

Varies by engine and year, typically from 88 hp (2.3L naturally aspirated) to 175 hp (2.3L Turbocharged).

Torque Range:

Varies by engine and year, typically from 110 lb-ft to 245 lb-ft.

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (early models) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI, later models, especially Turbo).

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Options:

4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (later models), 3-speed automatic.

Transmission Options:

Overdrive manual transmissions and automatic transmissions.

Clutch System:

Hydraulic clutch actuation on manual transmissions.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

2-door Notchback Coupe, 2-door Hatchback, 2-door Convertible (later years, often aftermarket or specialty).

Wheelbase:

Approx. 104.2 inches (for Fox Body platform).

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and equipment, typically between 2,700 - 3,200 lbs.

Seating Capacity:

4 passengers (2+2 configuration).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Data:

Limited official NHTSA data for specific model years, but generally reflects typical safety standards of the era.

Braking System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Optional front power disc brakes on some models.

Restraints:

Lap and shoulder belts, padded dashboard and steering wheel.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Aftermarket upgrades common.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models.

Dash Features:

Basic analog gauges, warning lights, and controls typical of the era.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, air filter, and fuel filter replacement typically at 30,000-60,000 mile intervals, consult manual for specific engine.

Engine Oil Type:

API SG or higher. Viscosity grades typically 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on temperature and engine. Consult manual for precise recommendations.

Coolant Type:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Ford specified Long Life Coolant (US).

Transmission Fluid Type Auto:

Mercon or equivalent for automatic transmissions.

Transmission Fluid Type Manual:

GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil, SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90 for manual transmissions. Consult manual.

Brake Fluid Type:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Power Steering Fluid:

Typically ATF (Automatic Transmission Fluid) or specific power steering fluid. Consult manual.

Common Wear Items:

Ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), fuel delivery issues (fuel pump, injectors), exhaust manifold cracks (especially on early 2.3L), cooling system leaks, suspension bushings, and interior wear/delamination.

Electrical Gremlins:

Common for wiring harnesses to degrade over time, leading to intermittent electrical issues. Fuse box corrosion is also a concern.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer:

Mercury (a division of Ford Motor Company).

Generations:

The 1979-1986 Mercury Capri represents the second generation of the Capri, heavily based on Ford's Fox Body platform, sharing many components with the Ford Mustang and Mercury Capri (European model lineage).

Manufacturing Location:

Primarily assembled in the United States by Ford.

Production Years:

1979-1986

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Model Perception:

The Capri was marketed as a sporty and stylish coupe, often seen as an alternative to other popular compact sports coupes of the era.