Target Audience:
Professional mechanics, automotive technicians, and experienced DIY enthusiasts specializing in performance Ford models.
Vehicle Segment:
Performance compact hatchback, predecessor to the hot hatch genre.
Manual Advantage:
Provides the same level of detail as factory service manuals, crucial for the specific needs of the RS performance variant.
Instruction Style:
Detailed sub-steps, notes, cautions, warnings, numbered instructions, and bold figure numbers for clarity.
Visual Aids:
Detailed illustrations, drawings, photos, and enlarged inset views for precise part identification and procedure guidance.
Primary Coverage:
Full Service Repair and Maintenance
Diagnostic Tools Required:
Covers use of basic hand tools, specialized engine diagnostic tools, and multimeters.
Estimated Page Count:
Varies by specific edition, typically hundreds of pages for a full service manual.
Type:
Full Service Repair Manual
Powertrain:
Engine mechanical, fuel system, ignition system, exhaust system, cooling system, lubrication system.
Transmission:
Manual transmission (likely Type 9), clutch system, driveline components (driveshafts, differentials).
Chassis:
Suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear independent trailing arm), steering system, braking system (disc front, drum rear for RS models).
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, starter system, charging system, lighting, instrumentation, accessories, electronic fuel injection (EFI) and ignition control systems.
Body And Trim:
Body panel repair, interior components, exterior trim, glass replacement, body sealing.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter (if applicable), muffler, exhaust manifold, and pipework inspection and replacement.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance, fluid changes (oil, coolant, brake fluid), filter replacements, tune-ups.
Diagnostics:
Troubleshooting common problems, diagnostic procedures for engine management and electrical systems.
Repair:
Component removal and installation, rebuild procedures, adjustments, calibration.
Restoration:
Detailed guidance suitable for full vehicle refurbishment and restoration projects.
Engine Rebuild:
Detailed procedures for cylinder head removal/installation, piston/rod assembly, crankshaft service, and camshaft timing.
Turbocharger Service:
Inspection, removal, installation, and troubleshooting of the turbocharger and associated plumbing.
Suspension Geometry:
Alignment specifications and procedures for both front and rear suspension.
Fuel Injection Diagnosis:
Testing of fuel injectors, fuel pressure regulator, air flow meter (AFM) or manifold pressure sensor, and ECU diagnostics.
Wiring Diagrams Detail:
Comprehensive, component-by-component wiring schematics for all major electrical systems.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering everything from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and component rebuilds, aimed at professional technicians and skilled DIYers.
Engine Code Common:
YTG (1.6L CVH Turbocharged)
Horsepower Typical:
132 hp (98 kW) @ 5700 rpm (for RS Turbo Series 1)
Torque Typical:
180 Nm (133 lb-ft) @ 2700 rpm (for RS Turbo Series 1)
Induction:
Bosch K-Jetronic Continuous Injection (CIS) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) with Garrett T3 turbocharger.
Configuration:
Inline 4-cylinder, transverse mounting
Capacity:
1.6 Liters (1598 cc)
Type:
Electronic Ignition (likely distributorless or single coil with module)
Type:
Pressurized, liquid-cooled system with radiator, expansion tank, and fan.
Crash Test Era:
Era-appropriate safety standards, manual will detail passive safety features.
Braking:
Front ventilated discs, rear drum brakes. RS models may feature upgraded front discs/calipers.
Restraints:
Seat belts (likely lap and sash front, lap rear). Manual will cover seat belt inspection and repair.
Oil Change:
Typically every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6-12 months, as per manual's specific recommendations for the RS engine.
Spark Plugs:
Check/replace at intervals specified in the manual, typically around 10,000-20,000 miles.
Engine Oil:
Recommended viscosity grade (e.g., 5W-30 or 10W-40 synthetic) and API service classification will be detailed.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, typically a 50/50 mix with distilled water. Specific Ford specification likely required.
Transmission Fluid:
Manual transmission fluid (MTF) specification (e.g., GL-4) and capacity will be provided.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, capacity will be specified.
Turbo System Wear:
Turbocharger wear, intercooler leaks, boost control issues common with high-mileage units.
Cvh Engine Specifics:
Potential for head gasket issues, wear in valve train components, and lubrication system concerns if not maintained.
Electrical Reliability:
Aging wiring harnesses, corroded connections, and component failures can be prevalent in vehicles of this age.
Oil Filter Example:
Manual will list OEM and equivalent aftermarket filter part numbers.
Ford Performance Division:
Ford Special Vehicle Engineering (SVE) or Ford Rally heritage.
Rs Development:
Developed for homologation for Group A rallying, resulting in significant performance upgrades over standard Escort models.
Manufacturing Region:
Primarily UK (Ford of Britain), also produced in other European markets.
Generation Release:
Mark III Escort launched in 1980, RS variants introduced later in the generation. RS Turbo Series 1 (1984-1986), Series 2 (1986-1990).