Target Market:
Owners of 1980 Ford Mustangs seeking to perform maintenance and repairs, as well as professional mechanics.
Advantage Over Alternatives:
Provides factory-level data not always readily available in generic repair guides, offering immediate digital access.
Content Similarity:
Comparable to original factory service manuals and owner's manuals, offering a wealth of information.
Learning Methodology:
Step-by-step instructions designed to impart factory-trained technician knowledge.
User Empowerment:
Enables owners to make informed decisions regarding vehicle maintenance and repairs.
Engine:
Comprehensive coverage including diagnosis, repair, and overhaul for all available engine options.
Fuel System:
Details on carburetors (e.g., Motorcraft 740 CFM 4-barrel), fuel pumps, lines, and emissions control systems.
Ignition System:
Information on ignition timing, spark plugs, distributor, ignition coil, and electronic control module (if applicable).
Cooling System:
Radiator, water pump, thermostat, fan clutch, and coolant specifications.
Exhaust System:
Catalytic converter, mufflers, pipes, and emission controls.
Transmission:
Service and repair procedures for manual and automatic transmissions, including clutch service, torque converter, and shift linkage adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Rear axle, driveshaft, universal joints, and CV joints (if applicable).
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including springs, shocks, control arms, ball joints, and alignment procedures.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering column, steering linkage, and wheel alignment specifications.
Brakes:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes, brake fluid specifications, hydraulic system diagnostics, and parking brake adjustments.
Electrical System:
Wiring diagrams, battery, alternator, starter motor, lighting, fuses, relays, and instrument cluster diagnostics.
Body And Interior:
Body panel removal and installation, door mechanisms, interior trim, seat adjustments, and glass replacement.
HVAC System:
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning system diagnosis and repair.
Maintenance:
Scheduled maintenance tasks, fluid checks, filter replacements, and lubrication.
Disassembly Assembly:
Detailed instructions for component removal, rebuilding, and reinstallation.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures and symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Step-by-step repair instructions for a wide range of common and complex issues.
Cleaning Reinstalling:
Guidelines for proper cleaning and reinstallation of components.
Depth Of Information:
Factory-level detail, covering everything from basic tune-ups to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostic Tools:
Implied use of standard automotive diagnostic tools; specific diagnostic charts and procedures are included.
Engine Options:
2.3L I4 (Pinto), 3.3L I6 (Cologne), 4.2L V8 (Windsor-based), 5.0L V8 (Windsor)
Typical Horsepower 2 3L:
Approx. 88-90 hp
Typical Horsepower 3 3L:
Approx. 105-110 hp
Typical Horsepower 4 2L:
Approx. 131 hp
Typical Horsepower 5 0L:
Approx. 140-155 hp (depending on carburetor and emissions equipment)
Carburetor Spec 5 0L:
Motorcraft 740 CFM 4-barrel carburetor (standard on Cobra, optional on GT)
Carburetor Spec 2 3L:
Motorcraft 2150 CFM 2-barrel carburetor
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Standard Transmission Type:
4-speed manual (e.g., Ford 'SROD' single-rail overdrive)
Optional Transmission Type:
3-speed automatic (e.g., Ford C5)
Clutch Type:
Dry single-plate clutch (manual transmission)
Torque Converter:
Lock-up torque converter (automatic transmission) for improved fuel economy.
Crash Test Data:
Specific 1980 crash test data is limited; contemporary vehicles generally lacked standardized high-speed frontal/side impact testing as seen today.
Braking System:
Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes. Power assist available.
Steering System:
Optional power steering.
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seat belts, lap belts for rear passengers.
Headrests:
Adjustable front headrests.
Body Construction:
Unibody construction with integrated safety cage elements.
Oil Change Interval:
Typically every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months, depending on driving conditions. Refer to manual for precise recommendations based on oil type.
Tune Up Interval:
Spark plugs, points (if applicable), and distributor cap/rotor service recommended every 12,000-15,000 miles.
Transmission Fluid Interval:
Automatic transmission fluid and filter change every 24,000-30,000 miles. Manual transmission fluid inspection.
Engine Oil Spec:
API SF or SG service classification. Viscosity grade typically SAE 5W-30 or 10W-40, depending on ambient temperature. Consult manual for specific engine and temperature charts.
Coolant Spec:
Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze, mixed 50/50 with distilled water for freeze protection and corrosion inhibition.
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Ford ESP-M2C166-H or Mercon (equivalent to Type-A Suffix A / Dexron II) for C5 transmissions.
Carburetor Tuning:
Carburetors can be sensitive to adjustment and require regular tuning for optimal performance and emissions.
Ignition System Reliability:
Older ignition systems can be prone to wear in points, condensers, and distributors.
Rust And Corrosion:
Common for vehicles of this era, particularly in areas exposed to road salt. Check fender wells, rocker panels, and floor pans.
Weatherstripping Degradation:
Original weatherstripping can become brittle, leading to leaks and wind noise.
Ford Legacy:
The Ford Mustang, introduced in 1964, is an icon of American automotive history, representing the pony car segment.
Third Generation Launch:
The 1979 model year marked the debut of the third generation (Fox Body), a significant redesign focused on lighter weight and improved efficiency.
1980 Updates:
Minor styling tweaks, new interior options, and potential packaging adjustments across different trim levels (e.g., Ghia, Cobra, Base).
Production Location:
Dearborn Assembly Plant, Michigan; San Jose Assembly Plant, California; Metuchen Assembly Plant, New Jersey (specific to model year and plant operations).