Segment:
Performance hatchback/sedan/estate.
Target Audience:
Enthusiasts, mechanics, owners seeking in-depth maintenance and repair knowledge.
Key Rivals:
Volkswagen Golf GTI, Opel/Vauxhall Astra GTE, Peugeot 205 GTI, BMW 3 Series (E30) models.
Vehicle Appeal:
Rear-wheel drive dynamics, powerful Cosworth engine, rally heritage.
Benefit:
Empowers owners and independent mechanics with factory-level repair and maintenance information, saving costs and ensuring proper upkeep.
Powertrain:
Engine (2.8i V6 Cosworth), cooling system, fuel system (injection), exhaust system, ignition system, engine management.
Drivetrain:
Manual transmission (e.g., MT75), differential, driveshafts, clutch.
Suspension And Steering:
Front suspension (MacPherson strut), rear suspension (independent trailing arm), power steering system, steering rack.
Brakes:
Front ventilated discs, rear discs, hydraulic system, parking brake, ABS (if equipped).
Electrical And Electronics:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, lighting, ignition system, engine control unit (ECU), instrumentation, wiring diagrams.
Body And Chassis:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, interior trim, chassis components, glass, seals.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance (oil changes, filter replacements, spark plugs, etc.), fluid level checks and top-ups.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, error code interpretation.
Repair And Rebuild:
Detailed step-by-step instructions for component removal, repair, and reinstallation (e.g., engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement).
Diagnostics:
Guidance on using diagnostic tools, interpreting sensor data, and performing system checks.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and complete mechanical/electrical system overhauls.
Component Level:
Detailed information on individual component specifications, tolerances, and repair procedures.
Searchability:
Likely text-searchable, enabling quick information retrieval.
Quality:
High resolution, suitable for printing detailed diagrams and text.
Digital Access:
Downloadable, no physical binding.
Digital Content:
Digital, requiring a PDF reader.
Engine Code And Type:
YBD / Cosworth Vega 2.8i V6 (24v DOHC) - often referred to as the Cosworth YB or 24v engine in later iterations, but the earlier RS models typically featured the 2.8i V6 Cologne engine.
Displacement:
2792 cc (2.8 Liters)
Horsepower:
Approx. 150-170 bhp (depending on specific RS variant and market)
Torque:
Approx. 230-240 Nm (depending on specific RS variant and market)
Injection Type:
Bosch L-Jetronic or similar electronic fuel injection (EFI)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Premium (95 RON or higher)
Audio System:
Basic AM/FM radio cassette player, potentially with upgraded speakers for RS models.
Nil:
Minimal driver assistance features by modern standards; focus was on mechanical performance.
Nil:
No connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB).
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months (refer to manual for exact recommendation).
Timing Belt:
Not applicable for the V6 Cologne engine, which uses a timing chain.
Engine Oil:
e.g., SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SG/SF (verify specific viscosity and API rating in manual).
Coolant:
Ford specification antifreeze/coolant, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.
Transmission Fluid:
Specific manual transmission fluid (e.g., Ford Specification EST-M2C184-A or equivalent).
Rust And Corrosion:
Common issue for vehicles of this era, particularly wheel arches, sills, and suspension mounts.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring looms, connectors, and earth points.
Engine Management:
Issues with fuel pump relays, idle control valves, and sensor failures can occur.
Suspension Wear:
Worn bushes, ball joints, and shock absorbers are common, impacting handling.
Ford Performance:
Ford's long history in motorsport and performance vehicles.
Sierra Development:
Developed as a successor to the Ford Taunus and Cortina, known for aerodynamic 'jelly mould' styling.
Manufacturing Plants:
Produced in various Ford plants, notably in Germany (Saarlouis) and Belgium (Genk).
Rs Variants:
RS models were designed for homologation and performance, often featuring Cosworth engines and sportier chassis tuning.
