Vehicle Segment:
Compact car
Target Audience:
DIY mechanics, professional technicians, classic car enthusiasts undertaking restoration or maintenance.
Competitors Of Vehicle:
Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, Volkswagen Golf, Chevrolet Cavalier, Plymouth/Dodge Colt.
Detail Level:
Highly detailed, with expanded sub-steps, notes, cautions, and warnings.
Usability:
Numbered instructions, bold figure numbers, clear table of contents, and integrated troubleshooting with wiring diagrams enhance ease of use.
Content Source:
Prepared primarily for professional technicians, ensuring industry-standard information.
Vehicle Generations Covered:
This manual specifically covers the 1988 model year of the Ford Escort, which falls within the second generation (1981-1990) for North America and the first generation (1980-1986) and early second generation (1986-1990) for Europe, though the product description implies a North American focus.
Estimated Page Count:
While not explicitly stated, comprehensive full service repair manuals of this era typically range from 500 to 1500+ pages due to the detail required.
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe Acrobat Reader, WinRAR (for extraction)
Compatibility:
Windows and macOS operating systems
Mechanical Systems:
Engine (all variants), cooling system, fuel system, exhaust system, ignition system, driveline, clutch, transmission (manual and automatic), suspension, steering, braking system, wheels and tires.
Electrical Systems:
Complete electrical system diagnostics, wiring diagrams, starting system, charging system, lighting system, instrument panel, power accessories, engine control module (ECM) and sensors.
Body And Chassis:
Body construction, interior trim, exterior trim, doors, windows, seats, frame and chassis components.
Maintenance:
Regularly scheduled maintenance, fluid checks and changes, filter replacements, tune-ups, lubrication.
Repair:
Detailed step-by-step repair procedures for all major mechanical and electrical components, including engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, suspension and brake repairs, and electrical fault finding.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting guides for common problems, diagnostic procedures for electrical faults, engine performance issues, and mechanical failures.
Restoration:
Information relevant to refurbishing and restoring the vehicle, including disassembly and reassembly instructions for various components.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to in-depth engine and transmission rebuilds, including advanced electrical diagnostics and troubleshooting.
File Quality:
PDF format, designed for full printability, implying high resolution and clarity of text and images.
Printability:
Full printable, allowing users to print individual pages or the entire manual.
Binding:
N/A (Digital download, not a physical book)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital download, not a physical book)
Engine Options North America:
1.9L (115 cu in) CVH I4, 2.0L (121 cu in) SPI I4 (later models may have different introductions but the manual covers the 1988 variants)
Engine Options Europe:
1.1L, 1.3L, 1.4L, 1.6L, 1.8L (diesel) CVH I4, 2.0L DOHC I4 (XR2/GTi models)
Horsepower Range:
Approximately 60-115 hp depending on engine and market. High-performance variants like the XR2/GTi could exceed 115 hp.
Torque Range:
Approximately 70-120 lb-ft, varying by engine displacement and configuration.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (early models and base trims) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) depending on engine and market.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline (Octane rating varies by recommendation, typically 87-91 AKI)
Spark Plugs:
Specific part numbers and gap specifications provided in the manual.
Timing Belt Or Chain:
CVH engines typically use a timing belt. Replacement intervals and procedures detailed.
Manual Transmission:
4-speed and 5-speed manual transmissions were common options.
Automatic Transmission:
3-speed automatic transmission available on many models.
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch, hydraulically or cable-operated.
Manual Transmission Fluid Type:
Manual transmission fluid (MTF) meeting Ford specifications (e.g., Mercon for later models, older specs for 1988 may vary but manual will specify).
Automatic Transmission Fluid Type:
Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) meeting Ford specifications (e.g., Mercon).
Length:
Approx. 164-168 inches (4166-4267 mm) depending on body style.
Width:
Approx. 66.2 inches (1681 mm).
Height:
Approx. 53.2-54.3 inches (1351-1380 mm) depending on body style.
Curb Weight:
Approx. 2200-2500 lbs (998-1134 kg) depending on configuration.
NHTSA Ratings 1988:
Specific NHTSA ratings for 1988 are not readily available for historical models; manual will cover safety component diagnostics and repair.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes standard. Some performance models may have had rear discs.
Restraint Systems:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts), with manual detailing their inspection and replacement.
Audio System:
Factory-installed AM/FM stereo, often with cassette player. Options for premium sound systems. Manual covers removal and installation procedures.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was an optional feature on higher trims or later models of this generation.
Wiring Diagrams:
Comprehensive wiring diagrams are a key feature, crucial for diagnosing and repairing any electrical system issue.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles (4,800-8,000 km) or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Manual will specify for various engines.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Manual transmissions: inspect at 15,000 miles, change as needed or at longer intervals. Automatic transmissions: typically every 30,000-50,000 miles (48,000-80,000 km).
Coolant Flush Interval:
Every 2 years or 30,000 miles (48,000 km).
Engine Oil Type:
API Service SG or SF, viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-30, depending on ambient temperature. Manual will provide precise specifications.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol based coolant, mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Specific Ford coolant specifications will be in the manual.
Common Wear Items:
CVH engine head gasket leaks, coolant leaks, clutch wear, aging electrical connectors, carburetor issues (if applicable), exhaust system rust.
Cvh Engine Quirks:
Known for being somewhat sensitive to maintenance. The manual will cover specific procedures to mitigate common problems with this engine.
Ford Motor Company:
Founded by Henry Ford in 1903, Ford is a global automotive manufacturer known for mass production techniques and accessible vehicles.
Escort First Generation:
Introduced in North America for the 1981 model year, based on the European Ford Escort Mk III. Featured front-wheel drive and a transverse engine layout, a departure for Ford's American lineup.
Escort Second Generation North America:
Launched for the 1986 model year, this generation saw significant styling and engineering updates, with the 1988 model being part of this generation. It featured more aerodynamic styling and improved interiors.
Manufacturing Locations:
Wayne, Michigan (USA), Oakville, Ontario (Canada) for North American models. Various plants globally for international markets.
Escout Market Success:
The Ford Escort was a highly successful model for Ford, consistently ranking as one of the best-selling cars in North America and Europe during its production run.
Escout Import Car Of The Year:
European Escort variants received 'European Car of the Year' awards in earlier generations, reflecting its global appeal.
