🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Ford

Model:

Mustang

Year:

1979

Generation Code:

Fox Body (Third Generation)

👋 Introduction

Positioning:

The Ford Mustang 1979 marked a significant redesign, ushering in the 'Fox Body' platform. This era introduced a more compact and lighter chassis, appealing to a broader market. This manual is crucial for owners and enthusiasts looking to maintain or restore these iconic vehicles.

Competitors:

During this period, the Mustang competed with vehicles like the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, and AMC Javelin. The 1979 model aimed to recapture performance heritage with improved aerodynamics and a more modern design.

Manual Value Proposition:

Empowers owners to perform their own repairs, saving money and ensuring quality. Provides in-depth understanding for effective maintenance and troubleshooting, critical for preserving the value and drivability of a classic vehicle.

Vehicle Selling Points 1979:

Sporty styling, improved fuel efficiency compared to earlier models, a versatile platform available in coupe, hatchback, and T-top configurations, and a range of engine options.

📋 Manual Details

Primary Coverage:

Complete Service and Repair

Secondary Coverage:

Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Diagnostics, Electrical Wiring Diagrams

Estimated Pages:

High (typically 1000+ pages for comprehensive factory manuals)

Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Digital Format:

PDF

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Service:

Detailed procedures for all engine variants, including disassembly, assembly, overhaul, troubleshooting.

Transmission Service:

Coverage for manual and automatic transmissions, including removal, installation, internal repairs, and fluid specifications.

Brake System:

In-depth coverage of hydraulic systems, disc/drum brake components, parking brake, and troubleshooting.

Electrical System:

Comprehensive wiring diagrams, component location, diagnostic procedures for all electrical circuits.

Suspension Steering:

Details on front and rear suspension components, steering gear, alignment specifications, and related repairs.

Cooling Fuel Emission:

Procedures for radiator, thermostat, water pump, fuel injection/carburetor systems, emission control devices, and related diagnostics.

General Maintenance:

Routine checks, fluid changes, filter replacements, lubrication schedules.

Troubleshooting:

Systematic approach to diagnosing common and complex problems with step-by-step guides.

Chassis Body Repairs:

Information on body panel replacement, structural repairs, interior trim, and chassis components.

Restraint System:

Coverage of seat belts, potential early airbag systems (if applicable to specific trims), and related safety components.

Depth:

Comprehensive, suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIY enthusiasts. Covers everything from routine maintenance to complete engine rebuilds and electrical diagnostics.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF (Portable Document Format)

Reader Requirements:

Adobe Acrobat Reader (or compatible PDF viewer)

Decompression Requirements:

WinZip or similar file compression utility (if delivered as a compressed archive)

Operating System Compatibility:

Windows and macOS

Quality:

High-resolution scans, ensuring clarity of text, diagrams, and photographs.

Binding:

Digital Download (not a physical book)

Paper Type:

N/A (Digital format)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Options Overview:

The 1979 Mustang was offered with several engine choices, including inline-four, V6, and V8 configurations. The manual would cover all of them.

Engine 2.3L I4 Pinto:

2.3L (140 ci) OHV Inline-4. Often used in base models and offered decent fuel economy. Output varied but typically around 80-95 hp.

Engine 2.8L V6 Cologne:

2.8L (170 ci) OHV V6. Offered a balance of power and efficiency. Output around 101-115 hp.

Engine 3.3L I6 Pinto:

3.3L (200 ci) OHV Inline-6. Less common in Mustang for this year but a viable option. Output typically around 95 hp.

Engine 4.2L V8 Windsor:

4.2L (255 ci) OHV V8. Introduced as a fuel-efficient V8 option. Output around 115-125 hp.

Engine 5.0L V8 Windsor:

5.0L (302 ci) OHV V8. The performance-oriented option, often found in GT models. Output typically around 130-140 hp depending on carburetor and exhaust configurations.

Hp Torque Specifications:

Specific horsepower and torque figures vary by engine and emission controls for the year. The manual will provide precise figures for each engine variant.

Fuel Delivery:

Carbureted (Motorcraft 2-barrel or 4-barrel on V8s) and early electronic fuel injection (EFI) on some 2.3L models. Manual covers both systems.

Fuel Type:

Unleaded gasoline

🔧 Transmission

Manual Transmission:

Typically a 4-speed manual transmission was standard on lower-trim models.

Automatic Transmission:

Optional 3-speed automatic transmission (C4 or FMX variants depending on engine).

Transmission Fluid:

Specification for automatic transmission fluid (e.g., Ford ESP-M2C138-CJ or equivalent) and manual transmission gear oil.

📐 Dimensions

Wheelbase:

100.4 inches (2550 mm)

Length:

Approximately 179.4 inches (4557 mm)

Width:

Approximately 68.1 inches (1730 mm)

Height:

Approximately 50.6 inches (1285 mm)

Curb Weight:

Varies by engine and options, typically ranging from ~2600 lbs (2.3L) to ~3100 lbs (5.0L V8).

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety:

Early Fox Body Mustangs were designed with improved crash safety over previous generations, incorporating features like reinforced body structures and energy-absorbing materials. Specific NHTSA ratings for 1979 models may be limited or unavailable by modern standards.

Brakes:

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes were standard. Power assist was common.

Seat Belts:

Standard 3-point front seat belts and lap belts for rear passengers.

Steering Column:

Collapsible steering column for improved driver protection in frontal impacts.

💡 Technology Features

Audio Systems:

Basic AM/FM radios, optional AM/FM stereo with cassette tape players. The manual might detail speaker replacement and basic radio troubleshooting.

Cruise Control:

Optional on some models, detailing its operation and troubleshooting.

Dash Layout:

Functional and driver-focused dashboard with essential gauges and controls. Manual covers instrument cluster removal and repair.

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles (4,800 to 8,000 km) or 6 months, depending on driving conditions. The manual will specify for each engine.

Tune Up Interval:

Spark plugs, ignition wires, and distributor cap/rotor replacement typically around 30,000 miles (48,000 km).

Transmission Fluid Change:

Automatic transmission fluid and filter every 20,000 to 30,000 miles (32,000 to 48,000 km).

Engine Oil Type:

API SF or SG service category oil. Viscosity grades like 5W-30, 10W-30, or 10W-40 depending on climate. Consult the manual for exact recommendations.

Coolant:

Ethylene glycol-based antifreeze mixed 50/50 with distilled water. Manual will specify type and capacity.

Brake Fluid:

DOT 3 brake fluid.

Electrical Gremlins:

As with many vehicles of this era, electrical issues such as faulty grounds, corroded connectors, and aging wiring harnesses can be common. The manual's wiring diagrams are essential for diagnosis.

Carburetor Problems:

Carburetors can require periodic adjustment or rebuilding due to wear and fuel deposit buildup, affecting idle quality and performance.

Rust Prone Areas:

Common areas for rust include wheel wells, rocker panels, floor pans, and the trunk floor, especially in regions with road salt.

Suspension Wear:

Components like ball joints, tie rod ends, and bushings can wear over time, leading to steering looseness and alignment issues.

📚 Vehicle History

Mustang Legacy:

The Mustang, introduced in 1964, revolutionized the 'pony car' segment and became an automotive icon, symbolizing freedom and performance.

Third Generation Introduction:

The 1979 model year marked the debut of the third generation ('Fox Body'), a significant departure from the larger, heavier Mustangs of the 1970s. It was designed by Ford's Chief Designer Jack Telnack.

Trim Levels 1979:

Offered in base, Ghia (luxury-oriented), Cobra (performance-oriented), and MPG (economy-focused) trims.

Production Location:

Dearborn, Michigan; Metuchen, New Jersey; and San Jose, California assembly plants.

Production Volume 1979:

Ford sold over 360,000 Mustangs in 1979, demonstrating its immediate popularity.

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Automotive Press Reviews:

The 1979 Mustang was praised for its new styling and handling characteristics, earning positive reviews from automotive publications of the era for its departure from the previous generation's bulk.

Motor Trend Car Of The Year:

The 1979 Ford Mustang was named Motor Trend Car of the Year, a significant recognition of its design and market impact.