Positioning:
The Mercury Capri of this era was positioned as a sporty, stylish compact coupe, often targeting a younger demographic seeking an alternative to the Ford Mustang or other imports. It emphasized personal luxury and European-inspired styling.
Competitors:
Key competitors included the Ford Mustang, Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Datsun 280ZX, Toyota Celica Supra, and Mazda RX-7.
Design:
Sleek, aerodynamic styling with European influences, often featuring pop-up headlights in later years.
Performance:
Offered a range of engines, from economical four-cylinders to more potent V6 and V8 options, providing a good balance of performance and handling for its class.
Interior:
Sporty cockpit-style interior, often with supportive seats and a driver-focused dashboard.
Diy Support:
Provides comprehensive data for DIY mechanics, enabling them to perform routine maintenance and repairs, saving on labor costs.
Professional Use:
Prepared primarily for professional technicians, ensuring the highest level of accuracy and detail for complex repairs.
Digital Convenience:
Instant download format offers immediate access and the ability to print only necessary sections, keeping the manual clean during greasy tasks.
Coverage Years:
1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986
Regional Availability:
North America
Estimated Page Count:
Hundreds (Specific count varies by original publication)
Type:
Workshop Service Manual / Repair Manual
Engine:
Comprehensive diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures for all available engine options.
Transmission:
Detailed information on manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, and internal repairs.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshafts, U-joints, and rear axle assembly.
Suspension:
Front (MacPherson strut) and rear suspension components, including alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power and manual steering systems, including steering gear and linkage.
Brakes:
Front disc and rear drum brake systems, including hydraulic components, parking brake, and adjustment.
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, component testing, charging system, starting system, ignition system, lighting, and accessories.
Body:
Body panel removal and installation, interior trim, glass, and weatherstripping.
Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning (HVAC):
HVAC system operation, diagnosis, and repair of components like the evaporator, condenser, and blower motor.
Fuel System:
Fuel delivery, carburetion (early models), electronic fuel injection (later models), fuel pumps, and emissions controls.
Cooling System:
Radiator, fan, water pump, thermostat, and heater core.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance procedures, fluid level checks, filter replacements, and tune-up specifications.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides, symptom-based diagnostics, and diagnostic trouble codes (where applicable).
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for virtually all mechanical and electrical components.
Overhaul:
Detailed procedures for engine and transmission overhauls.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive and detailed wiring schematics for all vehicle systems.
Depth:
Professional-level detail suitable for trained technicians, with sufficient clarity for advanced DIY enthusiasts.
Engine Options Overview:
The Mercury Capri during this period was available with a variety of engines, including inline-four, V6, and V8 configurations, depending on the specific model year and trim level.
Inline Four Cylinder:
Commonly a 2.3L (140 cu in) inline-four, often with overhead valves (OHV) or overhead camshaft (OHC). Performance figures varied, typically ranging from 80-115 hp. This engine was known for its fuel efficiency and reliability.
V6 Engine:
A 2.8L (171 cu in) V6 engine, often with overhead valves (OHV), was also available, particularly in sportier trims like the Capri RS. Power outputs typically ranged from 110-120 hp. Later models might have featured other V6 displacements.
V8 Engine:
Performance-oriented models, especially the Capri RS and later performance variants, offered a 5.0L (302 cu in) V8 engine. This engine provided significantly more power, typically around 140-150 hp in naturally aspirated form, and was often paired with performance transmissions.
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 80 hp to 150 hp, depending on engine and year.
Torque Range:
Varies significantly by engine, with V8 models offering the highest torque figures.
Carburetion:
Early models predominantly utilized carburetors, typically a two-barrel or four-barrel setup on V6 and V8 engines.
Electronic Fuel Injection (Efi):
Later model years, particularly from the mid-80s onward, transitioned to Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) systems for improved performance, fuel economy, and emissions control, especially on the 5.0L V8.
Manual Transmission:
A 4-speed manual transmission was a common standard offering on many models. Later years and higher trims might have offered a 5-speed manual.
Automatic Transmission:
A 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., Ford C-3 or C-4 depending on engine) was typically available as an option across most engine variants.
Gear Ratios:
Specific gear ratios are detailed within the manual for each transmission and engine combination.
Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid (MTF) and automatic transmission fluid (ATF) specifications are critical and detailed in the manual. Common ATFs include DEXRON-III or equivalent.
Length:
Approximately 175-179 inches, depending on year and specific body style.
Width:
Approximately 68-69 inches.
Height:
Approximately 50-51 inches.
Wheelbase:
Approximately 100.4 inches (shared with Fox Body Mustang).
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 2,700 lbs to 3,100 lbs, depending on engine, transmission, and options.
Crash Test Information:
While formal NHTSA ratings for this specific era are less detailed than modern standards, the manual will contain information on structural integrity and component safety.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes with rear drum brakes were standard. Performance models might have offered optional rear disc brakes.
Steering System:
Power steering was common, enhancing maneuverability.
Seat Belts:
Standard three-point front seat belts and lap belts for rear occupants.
Body Structure:
Designed with a unibody construction common for the era, incorporating crumple zones for energy absorption.
Audio System:
Base models typically featured AM/FM radios, with optional cassette players and higher-fidelity speaker systems available on higher trims.
Dashboard Features:
Driver-oriented dashboard with analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, and oil pressure. Some models included trip odometers and warning lights.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was not a standard feature and was rarely offered or available only on very late model performance variants, if at all.
Early Features:
Limited connectivity features by modern standards. The focus was on mechanical and basic electrical systems. Diagnostic capabilities were primarily mechanical checks and voltage/resistance tests.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically recommended every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Manual will provide specific guidance.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition timing, and filter checks typically recommended every 15,000-30,000 miles. Specific recommendations vary by engine.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter replacement recommended every 24,000-30,000 miles or as per manual's severe service schedule.
Engine Oil:
Viscosity grades like 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 were common, depending on engine and climate. Refer to manual for exact API service classification (e.g., SF, SG).
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based coolant (typically a 50/50 mixture with distilled water) for freeze and corrosion protection. Manual will specify type and capacity.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 brake fluid is standard. Manual will confirm exact type and replacement interval.
Power Steering Fluid:
Typically a Type-F ATF or a dedicated power steering fluid, specified in the manual.
Rust And Corrosion:
As with most vehicles of this era, rust can be a significant issue, particularly in wheel wells, rocker panels, and lower body sections. The manual details body panel removal which can aid inspection.
Electrical Gremlins:
Older wiring harnesses can degrade, leading to intermittent electrical issues. The comprehensive wiring diagrams in the manual are invaluable for diagnosing these problems.
Carburetor Issues:
Carbureted engines may require periodic adjustments, cleaning, or rebuilding due to wear and tear or fuel system contamination.
Suspension Wear:
Components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear out over time, affecting handling and tire wear. The manual provides specifications for wear limits and replacement procedures.
Mercury Brand Context:
Mercury was Ford's mid-tier brand, often offering sportier or more upscale versions of Ford models. The Capri served as a performance-oriented, stylish coupe within the Mercury lineup.
Second Generation Launch:
The second generation Capri, introduced for the 1979 model year, was a significant departure from its predecessor. It adopted the Fox Body platform, shared with the Ford Mustang, which provided a modern, rear-wheel-drive architecture.
Styling Changes:
The styling evolved over the years, with updates to grilles, headlights (including the introduction of pop-up headlights on some models), taillights, and trim packages, aiming to keep the car contemporary.
Performance Variants:
Key performance variants included the Capri RS (Rally Sport) and later performance-oriented models featuring the 5.0L V8 engine and sport-tuned suspension.
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in the United States by Ford Motor Company.
Market End:
Production of the Mercury Capri under the Mercury brand concluded with the 1986 model year.