Market Segment:
Sporty compact/subcompact coupe (early models), later more mainstream coupe/convertible.
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, AMC Javelin, Datsun Z-cars (e.g., 240Z/260Z/280Z), Toyota Celica, Ford Mustang.
Vehicle Positioning:
Initially marketed as a sporty European-inspired coupe, later iterations became more distinct American muscle/sporty car offerings.
Manual Value Proposition:
Enables owners to perform maintenance and repairs cost-effectively, understand vehicle systems, and prolong vehicle life.
Main Coverage:
Comprehensive Service and Repair
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific year and engine (typically 500-1000+ pages for a full factory manual set)
Manual Type:
Service and Repair Manual
Delivery Method:
Instant Download
Software Requirements:
Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (or similar decompression software)
Operating System Compatibility:
All Versions of Windows & Mac
Powertrain:
Engine, Fuel System, Cooling System, Exhaust System, Ignition System
Drivetrain:
Transmission (Manual & Automatic), Clutch, Driveshafts, Rear Axle Assembly
Chassis:
Suspension (Front & Rear), Steering System, Brakes (Hydraulic & Parking), Wheels & Tires
Electrical:
Battery, Charging System, Starting System, Lighting System, Instrumentation, Wiring Diagrams, Fuses & Relays, Accessories
Body:
Body Panels, Doors, Windows, Seats, Interior Trim, Exterior Trim, Bumpers, Paint & Finish
Emissions:
Emission Control Systems, Diagnosis, and Component Description
Maintenance:
Scheduled Maintenance, Fluid Changes, Filter Replacements, Lubrication, Tune-ups
Repair:
Engine Overhaul, Transmission Repair, Brake System Service, Suspension Component Replacement, Electrical Diagnosis and Repair
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic Charts, Symptom-Based Troubleshooting Guides, Fault Code Interpretation
Technical Specifications:
Torque Specifications, Clearances, Timing Settings, Fluid Capacities, Electrical Specifications
Depth Of Coverage:
Comprehensive, covering from basic maintenance to major component overhauls and diagnostics
Print Quality:
Fully Printable (high-resolution, intended for clear reproduction)
Searchability:
Likely searchable text within the PDF (depending on original source)
Zoom Functionality:
Zoom IN/OUT capable
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Download - PDF)
Engine Options:
Range of inline-four and V6 engines. Common options include 2.3L (140 cu in) inline-four (Pinto/Lima engine), 2.8L (171 cu in) V6 (Cologne engine), and later models may feature other variations.
Horsepower Range:
Varies significantly by year and engine. Early 4-cylinders might be around 80-90 hp, V6s around 110-130 hp, and performance variants (e.g., XR-7, Turbo Capri) could exceed 120-150 hp.
Torque Range:
Correspondingly varies with horsepower. V6 engines generally offered better torque for cruising.
Fuel Delivery:
Carbureted (e.g., Motorcraft 2150, 740 CFM) for most engines throughout this period. Fuel injection (EFI) may have been introduced on some later or performance models.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Common Inline 4 Code:
Lima 2.3L (e.g., YF, YM, YP designations)
Common V6 Code:
Cologne 2.8L (e.g., YV, ZV designations)
Standard Transmission:
4-speed manual transmission was often standard on base models.
Optional Transmission:
3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., C-3, C-4) and potentially a 5-speed manual on later models or performance variants.
Transmission Fluid:
Typically Mercon or Dexron III for automatic transmissions. Manual transmissions would use gear oil (e.g., GL-4 or GL-5).
Body Styles:
2-door coupe, 3-door hatchback, convertible (later years).
Wheelbase:
Approximately 104.2 inches (2647 mm) for Fox platform.
Curb Weight:
Ranges from approximately 2,500 lbs to 3,000+ lbs depending on engine and body style.
Safety Standards:
Designed to meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) of the era. Specific crash test ratings from this period are less commonly detailed than modern vehicles.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes were standard. Power assist was common. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was generally not available in this era.
Restraints:
Seat belts (lap and shoulder belts) were standard. Airbags were not a feature during this production run.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type used. Consult manual for specifics.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, ignition wires, and distributor cap/rotor replacement typically recommended every 20,000-30,000 miles.
Coolant Flush:
Recommended every 2-3 years or 30,000-50,000 miles.
Engine Oil Type:
API SF or SG rated. Viscosity typically 5W-30 or 10W-40, depending on climate and engine. Refer to manual for precise grade.
Coolant Type:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze. Typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Consult manual for specific type (e.g., green conventional).
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 brake fluid.
Common Problems Engine:
Carburetor tuning issues, vacuum leaks, potential for oil leaks from gaskets (e.g., valve cover, oil pan), timing chain wear on 2.3L engines.
Common Problems Electrical:
Aging wiring harnesses can cause intermittent issues, faulty voltage regulators, starter solenoid problems, dashboard warning light failures.
Common Problems Chassis:
Rust on body panels (especially lower fenders, rocker panels, rear quarter panels), worn suspension bushings, brake component wear, steering linkage play.
Mercury Brand:
Mercury was Ford's mid-tier brand, positioned between Ford and Lincoln. The Capri was often a badge-engineered vehicle, initially based on European Ford models before transitioning to the US-developed Fox platform.
Generation 1 Fox Platform:
Introduced in 1979, the Capri utilized the new Ford Fox platform, sharing many components with the Ford Mustang. This marked a significant shift from its European roots.
Manufacturing Location:
Assembled in the United States, primarily at Ford's Dearborn Assembly Plant, Michigan.
Production Timeline:
1979-1986.
