Positioning:
Full-size American sedan, often used in police and taxi fleets, known for durability and RWD platform
Competitors:
Chevrolet Caprice, Buick Roadmaster, Chrysler New Yorker
Appeal:
Comfortable ride, robust construction, V8 powertrain, spacious interior
Cost Savings:
Enables DIY repairs to save significant money on labor and parts
Ease Of Use:
Step-by-step instructions with pictures for simplified repair processes
Coverage:
All models, engines, trim levels, and transmission types
Page Count:
Not specified, but described as 'Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual'
Type:
Complete Workshop Service Repair Manual
Format:
Downloadable Digital Format (PDF compatible)
Engine:
All powertrain components including diagnosis, repair, and overhaul
Transmission:
Automatic transmission service, repair, and troubleshooting
Brakes:
Hydraulic system, ABS, parking brake, and component replacement
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension, steering, wheel alignment
Electrical:
Complete wiring diagrams, lighting, ignition, starting, charging, and accessories
Body And Frame:
Interior and exterior trim, body panels, collision repair basics
Climate Control:
HVAC system diagnosis and repair
Fuel System:
Fuel injection, fuel pump, tank, and lines
Exhaust System:
Components, diagnosis, and replacement
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, and coolant service
Maintenance:
Oil changes, fluid checks, filter replacements, tune-ups
Troubleshooting:
Step-by-step diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon faults
Repair:
Component replacement, reassembly, and adjustment for all major systems
Diagnostics:
Utilizing OBD-II codes and diagnostic procedures
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for engine and transmission component rebuilding
Depth:
Comprehensive from basic maintenance to advanced diagnostics and full overhauls
Engine Code:
4.6L SOHC V8 (Modular - Romeo/Windsor variants)
Displacement:
4.6 Liters (281 cubic inches)
Horsepower Approx:
215-215 hp @ 4400 rpm (depending on configuration)
Torque Approx:
285-285 lb-ft @ 3200 rpm (depending on configuration)
Induction:
Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI)
Configuration:
Overhead Camshaft (SOHC), V8, 90-degree V-angle
Wheelbase:
114.4 inches (2906 mm)
Overall Length:
215.1 inches (5464 mm)
Overall Width:
78.6 inches (1997 mm)
Overall Height:
56.0 inches (1422 mm)
Curb Weight Approx:
3,850 - 4,050 lbs (1746 - 1837 kg)
Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:
Not explicitly stated, but typically around 5,000 lbs
NHTSA Rollover Rating:
4-star (Frontal Driver, Frontal Passenger)
ABS:
Standard Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
Traction Control:
Optional Traction Assist
Airbags:
Driver and front passenger airbags
Seatbelts:
Three-point front and rear seatbelts
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or 6 months, whichever comes first, using synthetic blend or synthetic oil.
Engine Coolant Flush:
Every 100,000 miles (160,000 km) or 5 years, whichever comes first.
Transmission Fluid Change:
Every 50,000-100,000 miles (80,000-160,000 km), or as per severe duty schedule.
Engine Oil Spec:
SAE 5W-30 (synthetic blend or full synthetic recommended for best performance and longevity)
Coolant Type:
Ford Premium Engine Coolant (VC-5A) or equivalent (ethylene glycol based, orange)
Intake Manifold Gaskets:
Early 4.6L engines (pre-1996) were prone to intake manifold gasket failures; 1998 models generally had this addressed, but monitoring is prudent.
Rear Main Seal:
Potential for rear main seal leaks over time, particularly on higher mileage vehicles.
Suspension Components:
Wear in control arm bushings, ball joints, and tie rod ends due to vehicle weight and usage.
Oil Filter:
Ford/Motorcraft FL-820S or equivalent (e.g., Wix 51515)
Ford Legacy:
Ford has a long history of producing reliable, large sedans and sedans known for their robust construction.
Generation:
Fourth generation (1998-2011). The 1998 model year introduced significant updates, including revised exterior styling and interior.
Manufacturing Location:
St. Thomas Assembly, Ontario, Canada
Production Years For Platform
Platform Years:
1998-2011 ( Panther Platform update)
