This manual covers the Ford Mustang, Mercury Cougar, Ford Torino, and Mercury Montego from the 1973 model year. These vehicles represent a significant era in American automotive design, characterized by bold styling and powerful V8 engine options, ranging from the 250 cubic inch inline-six to the formidable 429 cubic inch V8. Each model offers a unique blend of performance and comfort, with the Mustang providing a sporty experience, the Cougar offering a more luxurious feel, and the Torino and Montego delivering versatile platforms with various trim levels. These vehicles are celebrated for their historical impact and are highly sought after by enthusiasts and collectors for their classic American muscle car appeal.
This comprehensive Factory Service Manual provides detailed information for the service, shop, and repair of your 1973 Ford Mustang, Mercury Cougar, Ford Torino, or Mercury Montego. It covers all major systems, including the engine (all variants), transmission (manual and automatic), brakes, suspension, steering, electrical systems, cooling, fuel, exhaust, body, frame, interior, and HVAC. Within its 189 pages, you will find hundreds of detailed illustrations, basic maintenance procedures, complete engine and transmission rebuild instructions, troubleshooting guides, and technical specifications. This manual is designed to assist enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, and restoration project participants in maintaining and repairing these iconic vehicles, ensuring their longevity and optimal performance.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY Mechanics, Restoration Projects
Value Proposition:
Provides factory-level repair knowledge, saving on professional labor costs.
Completeness:
Covers every nut and bolt, from basic maintenance to complex repairs.
Ease Of Use:
Easy-to-read text and hundreds of illustrations.
Accessibility:
Searchable and printable PDF format.
Primary Coverage:
Service, Shop, Repair
Manual Type:
Factory Service Manual
Engine:
Yes (All variants)
Transmission:
Yes (Manual and Automatic)
Brakes:
Yes (Hydraulic, Drum, Disc)
Suspension:
Yes (Front and Rear)
Steering:
Yes (Power and Manual)
Electrical:
Yes (Wiring Diagrams, Components)
Fuel System:
Yes (Carbureted, Fuel Lines)
Body And Frame:
Yes (Repair and Adjustment)
Interior:
Yes (Trim, Seats)
HVAC:
Yes (Heating, Ventilation)
Basic Maintenance:
Oil Change, Filter Replacement, Tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for all systems
Engine Repair:
Complete rebuild procedures
Transmission Repair:
Overhaul, Clutch Replacement
Brake System Repair:
Pad/Shoe Replacement, Fluid Flush, Component Repair
Electrical Troubleshooting:
Component testing, wiring harness repair
Suspension And Steering Repair:
Component replacement, alignment specs
Body And Trim Repair:
Panel replacement, trim installation
HVAC System Repair:
Component diagnosis and replacement
Fuel System Service:
Carburetor adjustment and rebuild
Depth Level:
Comprehensive (Factory Trained Technician Level)
Illustrations:
Hundreds of detailed illustrations
Search Functionality:
Searchable PDF text
Printability:
Printable pages
Digital Quality:
High-resolution PDF
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital PDF)
Engine Options 1973 Mustang:
250 cu in (4.1L) Inline-6, 302 cu in (4.9L) V8, 351 cu in (5.8L) V8, 429 cu in (7.0L) V8 (Mach 1)
Engine Options 1973 Torino:
250 cu in (4.1L) Inline-6, 302 cu in (4.9L) V8, 351 cu in (5.8L) V8 (2V/4V), 429 cu in (7.0L) V8, 460 cu in (7.5L) V8
Engine Options 1973 Cougar:
351 cu in (5.8L) V8 (2V/4V), 429 cu in (7.0L) V8, 460 cu in (7.5L) V8
Engine Options 1973 Montego:
250 cu in (4.1L) Inline-6, 351 cu in (5.8L) V8 (2V/4V), 400 cu in (6.6L) V8, 429 cu in (7.0L) V8, 460 cu in (7.5L) V8
Horsepower Ranges:
Approx. 130 HP (Inline-6) to 370 HP (429 Cobra Jet)
Torque Ranges:
Approx. 200 lb-ft to 480 lb-ft
Carburetion:
Single or Two-Barrel Carburetors (Holley, Autolite)
Transmission Options:
3-Speed Manual, 4-Speed Manual (Toploader), 3-Speed Automatic (C4, FMX, C6)
Automatic Transmission Codes:
C4, FMX, C6
Clutch Type:
Single Dry Plate (Manual Transmission)
Wheelbase Mustang:
109.0 inches
Wheelbase Torino:
114.0 inches
Wheelbase Cougar:
114.0 inches
Wheelbase Montego:
114.0 inches
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 3,200 - 3,800 lbs depending on model and engine
Crash Safety Era:
Pre-modern safety standards (e.g., no airbags, limited crumple zones)
Braking System:
Front Disc Brakes (Optional Rear Drums/Discs), Rear Drum Brakes
Seat Belts:
Standard lap belts, optional shoulder belts
Steering Column:
Collapsible steering column
Audio Options:
AM/FM Radio, AM/FM Stereo Radio with 8-Track Player (Optional)
Features Available:
Power Steering, Power Brakes (Disc/Drum front)
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-4,000 miles or 6 months (refer to manual for specific engine)
Tune Up Interval:
Regular checks for spark plugs, points, condenser, and carburetor adjustments
Engine Oil Type:
SAE 10W-30 or 10W-40 (API Service SG or higher, consult manual for exact viscosity and API rating for specific engines)
Transmission Fluid Type:
Dexron III/Mercon (for automatic transmissions), GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (for manual transmissions)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene Glycol based antifreeze (50/50 mix with distilled water)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Problems:
Rust (especially in wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans), Carburetor tuning difficulties, Ignition system issues (points, condenser), potential cooling system leaks, suspension wear (bushings, ball joints).
Ford Heritage:
Long history of innovation and mass production in the automotive industry.
Mustang 1973:
Third year of the Mustang's second generation (1971-1973), a significant redesign from the first generation, featuring larger dimensions and a more aggressive styling.
Torino 1973:
Second year of the Torino's third generation (1972-1976), marking a shift to a larger, heavier platform with a focus on styling and comfort. Offered in various trims including GT and Sport.
Cougar 1973:
Fifth year of the Cougar's second generation (1971-1973), sharing its platform with the Ford Torino. Positioned as a more luxurious and upscale counterpart to the Mustang.
Montego 1973:
Second year of the Montego's second generation (1972-1976), a sibling model to the Ford Torino, offering similar body styles and powertrains.
Production Era:
1973 model year
Historical Impact:
These models represent the pinnacle of American muscle car design for their era, highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.