Engine Service:
Comprehensive engine repair and maintenance procedures
Fuel System:
Diagnosis and repair of fuel injection or carburetion systems
Ignition System:
Spark plug, coil, distributor (if applicable), and timing system service
Cooling System:
Radiator, thermostat, water pump, and fan service
Exhaust System:
Muffler, catalytic converter, and pipe inspection and replacement
Transmission Service:
Manual and automatic transmission repair, fluid changes, and adjustment
Drivetrain:
Front-wheel drive axle, CV joint, and differential service
Suspension System:
Struts, shock absorbers, control arms, and bushings repair
Steering System:
Power steering pump, rack and pinion, and tie rod end service
Brake System:
Disc and drum brake repair, hydraulic system service, parking brake adjustment
Electrical System:
Battery, alternator, starter, lighting, and accessory wiring
Engine Control System:
EFI/MPI systems, sensors, and actuators diagnosis
Body And Chassis:
Body panel alignment, rust repair, and structural components
HVAC System:
Air conditioning and heating system diagnosis and repair
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed steps for component removal and reinstallation
Cleaning Reinstallation:
Procedures for cleaning parts before reassembly
Specifications Data:
Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical resistance
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive electrical schematics for all systems
Component Testing:
Methods for testing individual components for proper function
Adjustment Procedures:
Carburetor, ignition timing, and clutch adjustments
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed instructions for engine overhaul and component replacement
Bodywork Repair:
Panel replacement, dent repair, and frame straightening guidance
Special Tools:
Identification and use of specialized tools required for certain repairs
Depth Level:
Professional Technician Level with DIY Accessible Content
Target Audience:
Professional Technicians and Knowledgeable DIY Mechanics
Diagnostic Capability:
Advanced diagnostic procedures for electrical and mechanical issues
Repair Scope:
Covers routine maintenance to major component overhauls
NHTSA Rating 1987:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1987 models may vary; generally considered basic for the era.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (some models may have rear discs as an option)
Steering Type:
Rack and pinion, optional power assist
Seat Belts:
Front shoulder belts, lap belts
Airbags:
Airbags were not standard or widely available in this model year
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months (older recommendation), but consult manual for specific conditions.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (approximate, check manual)
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 30,000-50,000 miles; Automatic: Every 24,000-36,000 miles (check manual)
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SF, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate)
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water
Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual: GL-4 gear oil (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90); Automatic: MERCON or equivalent ATF
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid
Common Problem 1:
Rust/corrosion, particularly on wheel wells, rocker panels, and subframes.
Common Problem 2:
CV joint wear leading to clicking noises during turns.
Common Problem 3:
Electrical issues, particularly with wiring harnesses and connectors due to age.
Common Problem 4:
Carburetor issues (on carbureted models) leading to rough idling or poor performance.
Common Problem 5:
Cooling system leaks from hoses, radiator, or water pump.
