🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Escort RS

Generation:

Mark III / RS Turbo

Years Covered:

1985, 1986, 1987

Chassis Code:

GFG (Escort RS Turbo)

👋 Introduction

Historical Context:

The Ford Escort RS Turbo was a homologation special, built to allow Ford to compete in Group A rallying. It was a significant performance variant of the popular Ford Escort model.

Rivals:

Competed against hot hatches of its era such as the Volkswagen Golf GTI, Peugeot 205 GTI, Vauxhall/Opel Astra GTE, and Renault 5 GT Turbo.

Manual Value Proposition:

Provides essential, factory-level information for maintaining and repairing the performance-oriented Escort RS Turbo, making it a cost-effective resource for owners.

Content Quality:

Features detailed illustrations, diagrams, wiring schematics, and step-by-step instructions, offering a high level of technical detail.

📋 Manual Details

Main Focus:

Comprehensive service and repair for Ford Escort RS models (1985-1987).

Specific Sections:

General Information, Engine Mechanical, Engine Electrical, Emission Control, Fuel System, Suspension, Clutch, Manual Transaxle, Automatic Transaxle, Driveshaft & Axle, Steering, Brakes, Body Interior & Exterior, Body Electrical, Restraint Systems.

Estimated Page Count:

Varies by specific edition, but typically extensive, often 800+ pages for a complete factory manual.

Type:

Workshop Service Repair Manual / Factory Service Manual

Language:

English

File Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Mechanical:

Engine assembly, cylinder head, valve train, pistons, crankshaft, camshafts, timing, lubrication, cooling, engine diagnostics.

Engine Electrical:

Ignition system, starter motor, alternator, battery, charging system, engine control unit (ECU) diagnostics, sensors.

Emission Control:

Catalytic converter, oxygen sensors, evaporative emission control (EVAP), exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) systems, emission system diagnostics.

Fuel System:

Fuel injection system (Bosch LE2-Jetronic for RS Turbo), fuel pump, fuel filter, fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, fuel tank, fuel lines, fuel system diagnostics.

Suspension:

Front suspension (McPherson strut), rear suspension (Torsion beam), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, wheel alignment specifications.

Clutch System:

Clutch operation, clutch disc, pressure plate, release bearing, clutch hydraulics, clutch adjustment.

Transaxle Manual:

Manual transaxle (e.g., Ford MTX-IV), gear ratios, internal components, removal and installation, lubrication, shift linkage adjustment.

Transaxle Automatic:

Automatic transaxle (less common on RS Turbo variants, but covered for standard Escort), operation, removal and installation, lubrication, control adjustments.

Driveshaft Axle:

Front driveshafts (CV joints), rear axle components (if applicable), wheel bearings.

Steering System:

Steering rack, power steering system (if equipped), steering column, tie rods, steering wheel removal, steering alignment.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes (ventilated), rear drum brakes, hydraulic system, brake master cylinder, brake lines, brake fluid specifications, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).

Body Interior Exterior:

Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, bumpers, glass, weatherstripping, interior trim, seats, dashboard, upholstery.

Body Electrical:

Lighting system (headlights, taillights, interior lights), power windows, power locks, central locking, wipers, horn, instrument cluster, fuse box locations and identification.

Restraint Systems:

Seat belts, seat belt mechanisms, pre-tensioners (if applicable), airbag systems (less common for early 80s models, but check for later production).

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, brake pad replacement, tire rotation, battery maintenance.

Troubleshooting:

Diagnostic procedures for common starting, running, electrical, and mechanical issues. Includes symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Repair Procedures:

Step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and installation across all vehicle systems.

Electrical Diagnostics:

Detailed wiring diagrams, circuit descriptions, testing procedures for electrical components and systems, troubleshooting harness issues.

Engine Rebuild:

Comprehensive instructions for engine disassembly, cleaning, inspection, machining specifications, and reassembly.

Transmission Repair:

Detailed procedures for manual and automatic transaxle overhauls, including clutch replacement and differential service.

Brake System Overhaul:

Procedures for caliper rebuild, master cylinder replacement, brake line replacement, and drum brake servicing.

Depth Level:

Highly detailed, covering everything from basic maintenance to complex overhauls and diagnostics, suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Printability:

Fully printable; users can print specific pages or the entire manual.

Zoom Capability:

Yes, allows for zooming in on illustrations and diagrams for clarity.

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital format)

Digital Paper Texture:

N/A (Digital format)

Delivery Method:

Instant Download

Software Requirements:

Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or equivalent unzipping software).

Operating Systems:

Compatible with all versions of Windows and Mac OS.

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Type:

1.6L CVH Inline-4, Turbocharged

Engine Code:

LE7 (RS Turbo)

Fuel Delivery:

Bosch LE2-Jetronic Fuel Injection

Horsepower Bhp:

132 bhp @ 5750 rpm (typical for RS Turbo)

Torque Lb-Ft:

135 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm (typical for RS Turbo)

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline (premium recommended)

Bore X Stroke:

80.0 mm x 77.0 mm (typical for 1.6L CVH)

Compression Ratio:

8.3:1 (typical for RS Turbo)

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type Rs Turbo:

5-speed Manual Transaxle (Ford MTX-IV)

Transmission Type Standard Escort:

3-speed or 4-speed Automatic (available on non-RS models)

Rs Turbo Gear Ratios:

Specific ratios for the MTX-IV are detailed in the manual, optimized for performance.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback

Wheelbase:

2400 mm (approx. 94.5 inches)

Length:

3930 mm (approx. 154.7 inches)

Width:

1670 mm (approx. 65.7 inches)

Height:

1375 mm (approx. 54.1 inches)

Curb Weight Rs Turbo:

Approx. 970 kg (2138 lbs)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test Era:

Vehicle safety standards were less rigorous in the mid-1980s; specific modern ratings are not applicable.

Braking System:

Front ventilated discs, rear drums. ABS was an option on some later models or specific markets.

Seat Belts:

Standard seat belts (lap and sash front, lap rear). Some models may have had pre-tensioners.

Body Structure:

Reinforced chassis and safety cage designed for its era.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Basic AM/FM radio, often with cassette player. Speaker configurations varied by trim.

Instrument Cluster:

Includes tachometer, speedometer, fuel gauge, temperature gauge, and warning lights. RS Turbo models have a more comprehensive cluster.

Early ABS:

Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on later models of the Mk3 Escort, but not standard across all RS Turbo variants.

Connectivity Era:

Minimal by modern standards. Connectivity primarily refers to basic electrical systems and diagnostics.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for exact specification.

Timing Belt Interval:

Critical for CVH engines; typically 30,000-50,000 miles. Failure can cause severe engine damage. Manual will specify exact interval and procedure.

Engine Oil:

API SG or SH, viscosity typically 10W-40 or 5W-40 (check manual for specific grade and capacity, usually around 4.5 liters).

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Capacity approximately 6.5 liters. Mix 50/50 with distilled water.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid. Check master cylinder reservoir for specific requirement.

Transmission Fluid Manual:

Manual transmission fluid, typically GL-4 specification, viscosity 75W-90 or 80W-90. Capacity approx. 2.5 liters.

Cvh Engine Reliability:

Known for potential head gasket issues if not properly maintained, especially under stress. Timing belt is a critical maintenance item.

Turbocharger Maintenance:

Requires careful oil maintenance and cool-down periods to ensure longevity of the turbocharger.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many cars of this era, wiring harness degradation and corrosion can lead to intermittent electrical issues.

Suspension Wear:

Bushings and ball joints can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Performance:

Ford has a long history of performance variants, particularly with the Escort nameplate dating back to the 1960s and its rallying success.

Mark Iii Escort:

The Mark III Escort (introduced 1980) represented a significant shift to front-wheel drive and a more modern European design for the Escort line.

Rs Turbo Development:

The RS Turbo was a homologation special based on the Mk3 Escort, featuring a Garrett T2 turbocharger, intercooler, and performance-tuned suspension and brakes.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily produced in Europe, notably the UK and Germany.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Performance Awards:

The Escort RS variants, particularly the RS Turbo, received acclaim for their performance and handling, contributing to Ford's image in motorsport and performance road cars.

Magazine Reviews:

Contemporary automotive magazines often praised the RS Turbo for its strong performance and value proposition within the hot hatch segment.