🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Fiesta

Year:

1986

Platform:

Mk2 (often referred to as the 'Mark II' or 'GFJ' platform)

👋 Introduction

Historical Context:

The 1986 Ford Fiesta represented a significant evolution in Ford's small car offerings, competing in the burgeoning supermini segment against rivals like the Volkswagen Polo, Vauxhall Nova (Opel Corsa), and Peugeot 205. It was known for its practicality, fuel efficiency, and surprisingly engaging driving dynamics for its class.

Key Strengths:

The Mk2 Fiesta offered a balance of economy, reliability, and a more refined interior than its predecessor. It was popular as an economical commuter car and a first car for many drivers.

Manual Value Proposition:

This manual empowers owners and independent technicians to perform all necessary maintenance, repairs, and diagnostics, reducing reliance on costly dealership services and ensuring the longevity of the vehicle.

Target Audience:

Ford Fiesta Mk2 owners seeking to perform DIY maintenance and repairs, classic car enthusiasts, and independent automotive workshops.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Comprehensive service and repair for the 1986 Ford Fiesta

Estimated Pages:

Varies by specific publisher, but typically between 500-1000+ pages for a complete factory service manual

Type:

Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual

Language:

English

Format:

PDF Download

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Repair:

Complete overhaul, component diagnosis, tuning, timing, cooling system, lubrication, fuel delivery (including fuel injection), emissions control.

Transmission Service:

Manual and automatic transmission repair, clutch service, driveline components, differential.

Brake System:

Disc and drum brake overhaul, hydraulic system diagnosis and repair, parking brake, ABS (if applicable to specific trims).

Electrical System:

Detailed wiring diagrams, starter, alternator, battery, lighting system, ignition system, accessory circuits, diagnostic procedures.

Suspension Steering:

Front and rear suspension components, steering rack, power steering (if equipped), wheel alignment specifications.

Chassis Body:

Body panel repair, interior trim, door mechanisms, glass, structural components, corrosion prevention.

Restraint System:

Seat belts, airbags (if equipped), and related components.

Axle Drive:

Front and rear axle repair, CV joints, drive shafts.

Routine Maintenance:

Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and top-offs, spark plug replacement, belt inspection and replacement, lubrication points.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.

Component Replacement:

Step-by-step instructions for replacing virtually all major and minor components.

Rebuilding Overhaul:

Detailed instructions for the complete disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of engine, transmission, and other major assemblies.

Specifications Data:

Torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, diagnostic data, electrical schematics, alignment settings.

Depth:

Extensive; covers everything from basic maintenance and fluid changes to complete engine rebuilds, transmission overhauls, and complex electrical system diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

Format:

PDF

Searchability:

Typically searchable text within the PDF for quick information retrieval.

Resolution:

High resolution, suitable for printing individual pages or the entire manual.

Binding:

Not applicable (digital download)

Paper:

Not applicable (digital download)

Reader Software:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF reader)

Unzipping Software:

WinZip or equivalent (if downloaded as a ZIP archive)

Operating Systems:

Windows and Mac OS

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code Variants:

GHIA, CVH (Compound Vortex Activated) 1.3L (1297cc), 1.4L (1392cc), 1.6L (1598cc), and potentially diesel variants (1.6L Diesel - RTD).

1.3L Cvh:

Approx. 60-65 hp (45-48 kW), 75-78 lb-ft (102-106 Nm) torque.

1.4L Cvh:

Approx. 70-75 hp (52-56 kW), 80-85 lb-ft (108-115 Nm) torque.

1.6L Cvh:

Approx. 80-85 hp (60-63 kW), 90-95 lb-ft (122-129 Nm) torque. XR2 models featured a tuned version of this engine.

Injection Carburetion:

Early models utilized carburetors (e.g., Weber 32/36 DGAV for 1.3/1.4L), while later or higher-spec models (like XR2) might have featured Bosch L-Jetronic or similar fuel injection systems.

Ignition System:

Distributor-based electronic ignition system, likely with a breakerless ignition module.

Coolant Type:

Typically a 50/50 mix of ethylene glycol antifreeze and distilled water. Refer to manual for specific Ford coolant specifications.

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

4-speed or 5-speed manual transaxle (e.g., Type 9, depending on market and engine).

Automatic Transmission:

Optional 3-speed automatic transmission (e.g., C3 or similar).

Clutch Type:

Dry single-plate diaphragm spring clutch.

Manual Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific API GL-4 gear oil recommendations (e.g., SAE 75W-90 or 80W-90).

Automatic Transmission Fluid:

Refer to manual for specific Ford ESW-M2C33F or M2C138CJ specification automatic transmission fluid.

📐 Dimensions

Body Styles:

3-door hatchback, 5-door hatchback.

Wheelbase:

Approx. 2,385 mm (93.9 inches)

Length:

Approx. 3,840 mm (151.2 inches) for 3-door, 3,890 mm (153.1 inches) for 5-door

Width:

Approx. 1,620 mm (63.8 inches)

Height:

Approx. 1,390 mm (54.7 inches)

Curb Weight:

Ranges from approximately 850 kg to 950 kg (1870 lbs to 2090 lbs) depending on engine and equipment.

Wheel Bolt Pattern:

4x108 mm

Typical Tire Sizes:

155/80R13, 165/70R13, 175/65R13, 185/60HR14 (XR2 variants)

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Test History:

As with many vehicles from this era, formal independent crash test data like Euro NCAP was not as prevalent. However, the Fiesta incorporated basic safety features for its time.

Braking:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Some models may have offered optional rear disc brakes.

Seatbelts:

Standard front seat belts; rear seat belts may have been optional or standard depending on market and trim.

Body Structure:

Reinforced safety cage and crumple zones were integrated into the body design.

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory fitted radio/cassette player, often with basic AM/FM tuning. Speaker options varied by trim level.

N/A:

Driver assistance systems as we know them today (ABS, traction control, etc.) were largely absent or optional on very few high-end trims for this model year.

N/A:

No built-in connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, USB) were available.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 12,000 km (7,500 miles) or 12 months, whichever comes first. Refer to manual for specific mileage and synthetic oil recommendations.

Air Filter Replacement:

Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles) or as needed based on operating conditions. Diesel models may have shorter intervals.

Spark Plug Replacement:

Every 48,000 km (30,000 miles) for standard ignition systems. Check manual for specific plug type and gap.

Timing Belt Replacement:

For CVH engines, timing belt replacement is critical and typically recommended every 96,000 km (60,000 miles) or 5 years. Failure can cause severe engine damage.

Engine Oil Specification:

Refer to manual for specific viscosity grade (e.g., SAE 5W-30, 10W-40) and API service classification (e.g., API SF or SG).

Coolant Capacity:

Approximately 5.5 - 6.0 liters (5.8 - 6.3 US quarts).

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid.

Rust Corrosion:

Common issue on vehicles of this age, particularly in areas prone to road salt. Wheel arches, sills, and floor pans are common areas.

Cvh Engine Reliability:

While generally robust, CVH engines can be susceptible to head gasket failures if overheated. Regular coolant level checks are vital. Timing belt maintenance is paramount.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with older vehicles, aging wiring harnesses and connections can lead to intermittent electrical faults. The wiring diagrams in the manual are essential for diagnosis.

Suspension Wear:

Ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, affecting handling and ride quality. Regular inspection is recommended.

📚 Vehicle History

Ford Small Car Legacy:

The Ford Fiesta lineage began with the Mk1 in 1976, establishing Ford as a strong contender in the European small car market. The Mk2 (1983-1989) continued this legacy with an updated design and improved features.

Mk2 Introduction:

The Mk2 Fiesta was introduced in 1983, featuring revised styling, a new dashboard, and the introduction of the CVH engine range. The 1986 model year saw further refinements and potential option package updates.

Manufacturing Locations:

Primarily manufactured in the United Kingdom (Dagenham) and Valencia, Spain.

Production Period:

The Mk2 Fiesta was produced from 1983 to 1989. The 1986 model is squarely within this production run.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Market Reputation:

Consistently ranked as a practical and economical choice in its class during its production run. The Fiesta's reputation for affordability and ease of maintenance contributed to its sales success.