Description:
The 1998 Lincoln Continental represented the pinnacle of American luxury sedans from Ford's Lincoln division during the late 1990s, focusing on comfort, quietness, and a smooth ride.
Competitors:
Competed with other luxury sedans such as the Cadillac DeVille, Cadillac Eldorado, Lexus LS400, Mercedes-Benz E-Class, and BMW 5 Series of the era.
Features:
Spacious interior, emphasis on ride comfort, V8 engine, sophisticated styling, availability of advanced features for its time.
Engine Mechanical:
Engine removal/installation, disassembly, assembly, cylinder head, block, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication system, cooling system, exhaust system.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, evaporative emission control (EVAP) system.
Engine Performance:
Ignition system, emission controls, engine diagnosis, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Transmission:
Automatic transmission (likely AX4N or 4R70W), removal/installation, disassembly, assembly, internal components, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM).
Drivetrain:
Driveshaft, CV joints, axles, differential, wheel bearings.
Brakes:
Front and rear brake systems (likely disc brakes), hydraulic system, ABS system, parking brake, brake fluid specifications.
Suspension:
Front suspension (e.g., MacPherson struts, control arms), rear suspension (e.g., independent rear suspension), springs, shock absorbers, ball joints, bushings, alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering gear, steering column, tie rods, power steering fluid specifications.
Electrical System:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter motor), lighting system, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panel removal/installation, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, interior trim, chassis components, rust prevention.
HVAC:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system, refrigerant, compressor, blower motor, climate control module.
Restraints:
Airbag system, seat belts, SRS module, safety restraint system components.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for various systems, identifying causes of common problems, using diagnostic tools.
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component repair, replacement, and adjustment.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for taking apart and reassembling vehicle components and systems.
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Procedures for cleaning parts before reassembly and proper reinstallation techniques.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive, covering fundamentals to detailed repair procedures. Suitable for professional technicians and advanced DIYers.
Oil Change Interval:
Recommended every 5,000 - 7,500 miles or 6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles (consult manual for specific type and procedure).
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 30,000 - 50,000 miles or 2-3 years.
Engine Oil:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 (preferred) or 10W-30. Consult owner's manual for specific recommendations.
Transmission Fluid:
MERCON V (or equivalent, check specific transmission).
Coolant:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (Green) or equivalent ethylene glycol-based coolant with a 50/50 mix of coolant and distilled water.
Power Steering Fluid:
Mercon or Mercon V (consult manual).
Common Problems:
Ignition coil failures, intake manifold gasket leaks (early modular engines), transmission shift solenoid issues, power window motor failures, suspension component wear (ball joints, bushings), occasional electrical gremlins.
