Segment:
Affordable Sports Coupe/Convertible
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, classic car owners
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Dodge Challenger (earlier models)
Platform Versatility:
The Fox Body platform's modularity allowed for a wide range of powertrains and configurations.
Performance Focus:
Despite economic pressures, the Mustang continued to offer performance-oriented variants.
Documentation Value:
Essential for maintaining and restoring these iconic vehicles.
Body Styles:
Coupe (G, T), Convertible (C)
Trim Levels:
Base, GL, LX, GT, SVO, Cobra
Estimated Pages:
Approx. 1500-2000 (combined across multiple volumes typically in a complete set)
Type:
Comprehensive Workshop/Repair Manual
Format:
PDF (Digital Download)
Powertrain:
Engine mechanicals, fuel systems, ignition systems, exhaust systems, cooling systems
Drivetrain:
Manual transmissions (T-5, T-4), Automatic transmissions (C-3, C-4, AOD), drivelines, axles, rear differentials
Chassis And Suspension:
Front and rear suspension (MacPherson struts, solid rear axle), steering systems, braking systems (disc and drum configurations), wheel bearings
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, lighting systems, starting and charging systems, instrumentation, body electrical components, fuse box locations and functions
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seating systems, dashboard components, interior trim
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication, tire rotation
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic charts for common problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides
Repair:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and repair of all major systems
Reassembly:
Detailed reassembly instructions with torque specifications and critical clearances
Depth:
Comprehensive: Covers basic to advanced diagnostics, component-level repair, and full rebuild procedures.
Special Tools:
Lists required special tools and procedures for their use.
Engine Option 1:
2.3L (140 cu in) OHC Inline-4 (Turbocharged option available)
Engine Option 2:
3.8L (232 cu in) OHV V6
Engine Option 3:
4.2L (256 cu in) OHV V8 (early years)
Engine Option 4:
5.0L (302 cu in) OHV V8 (High Output option)
Engine Option 5:
2.3L (140 cu in) DOHC Turbocharged Inline-4 (SVO Mustang)
Horsepower Range:
88 hp (2.3L NA) to 235 hp (5.0L HO, SVO)
Torque Range:
130 lb-ft (2.3L NA) to 285 lb-ft (5.0L HO, SVO)
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (various Motorcraft/Holley models) and Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) across different engine options and years.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by engine, typically 87-91)
Transmission Option 1:
4-speed Manual (e.g., Cruis-O-Matic variants)
Transmission Option 2:
5-speed Manual (e.g., T-5)
Transmission Option 3:
3-speed Automatic (e.g., C-3)
Transmission Option 4:
4-speed Automatic (e.g., AOD - Automatic Overdrive)
Overdrive Gear:
Available in AOD transmissions for improved fuel economy.
Wheelbase:
100.4 inches (2548 mm)
Length:
179.0 - 180.0 inches (4547 - 4572 mm) depending on model year and body style
Width:
69.1 - 69.4 inches (1755 - 1763 mm)
Height:
50.6 - 51.1 inches (1285 - 1298 mm) depending on body style
Curb Weight Range:
Approx. 2,600 lbs (1179 kg) to 3,200 lbs (1451 kg) depending on engine and options
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Varies by model and configuration (refer to specific vehicle placard)
NHTSA Ratings:
NHTSA ratings from this era are less detailed than modern standards. Frontal crashworthiness varied; side impact protection was minimal by today's standards.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes standard; rear drum brakes. Optional rear disc brakes on performance models (GT, Cobra, SVO).
Traction Control:
Not available during this generation.
Airbags:
Driver's side airbag became available in later years (late 1980s/early 1990s). Not standard across all models.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts, lap belts for rear occupants.
Rollover Protection:
Convertible models featured a reinforced windshield frame but lacked integrated roll bars.
Audio System:
Factory AM/FM radio with cassette player. Optional premium sound systems were available on higher trims.
Instrument Cluster:
Analog gauges including speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, engine temperature, and oil pressure. Some models featured trip odometers and warning lamps.
Cruise Control:
Optional on many models, particularly those with automatic transmissions.
Exterior Lighting:
Halogen headlights standard. Fog lights available on performance models. Exterior lighting control via dashboard switches and stalk controls.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000 miles or 3 months, or 5,000 miles / 6 months with synthetic oil (refer to manual for specific engine recommendations).
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual: Every 30,000-60,000 miles. Automatic: Every 30,000-50,000 miles, or as per manual.
Coolant Change:
Every 30,000 miles or 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG rated oil. Viscosity varies by engine and climate: 5W-30, 5W-40, 10W-30, 10W-40, 20W-50 (refer to manual for specific engine).
Transmission Fluid Manual:
GL-4 or GL-5 gear oil (e.g., 75W-90, 80W-90) for manual transmissions.
Transmission Fluid Automatic:
MERCON Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) or equivalent (e.g., Type-A Suffix A for older models).
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze (typically a green color) mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Fuel System Issues:
Carburetor tuning issues, fuel pump failures, injector clogging (EFI models).
Electrical Issues:
Corrosion in wiring harnesses, alternator failures, starter issues, intermittent electrical faults.
Suspension Issues:
Worn ball joints, tie rod ends, strut mounts, and control arm bushings due to age and mileage.
Rust Prone Areas:
Wheel wells, rocker panels, rear quarter panels, floor pans, frame rails.
Engine Specific Issues:
Head gasket failures on some 2.3L turbo engines, oil leaks on 5.0L V8s, timing chain wear on V6 engines.
Ford Legacy:
The Mustang nameplate represents a significant portion of Ford's automotive history, embodying American muscle and style.
Generation Transition:
This generation marked a significant shift from the larger, heavier Mustangs of the 1970s to a smaller, lighter, more aerodynamic platform influenced by European design.
Key Updates Within Generation:
Significant updates included powertrain changes (introduction of fuel injection, T-5 transmission), styling refreshes (particularly in 1987), and performance model enhancements (GT, Cobra, SVO).
Production Period:
1979-1993 (This manual covers the 1979-1992 portion of this generation).
Manufacturing Locations:
Primarily assembled in Dearborn, Michigan, and San Jose, California (later closed).
Car And Driver 10 Best:
The Mustang GT was often featured on Car and Driver's 10 Best lists during the 1980s, especially after the 1987 refresh.
Motor Trend Car Of The Year:
While the Mustang itself didn't win Car of the Year in this generation, the platform's success and the Mustang's enduring popularity were recognized.
Performance Magazine Reviews:
Consistently praised for its handling improvements and potent 5.0L V8 engine in reviews by automotive publications of the era.
