🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Mercury Model: Capri Model Generation: Third Generation (Fox Body) Production Years: 1979-1986 Codes Platform Code: Fox Body (Fox) 👋 Introduction Market Position Target Audience: Technicians, mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and owners seeking in-depth repair knowledge. Competitive Analysis Value Proposition: Provides comprehensive factory-level information at a low price with instant digital access. Key Features Features: Official factory manual, detailed diagrams, troubleshooting guides, instant download. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Covered Years: 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986 Regional Coverage: North America Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds to Thousands (printable) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Delivery Method: Instant Download 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine: Engine Service/Repair, Engine Control System, Fuel Injection, Fuel System, Emission System Drivetrain: Transmission Service/Repair, Differential/Drive, Axle Chassis: Suspension, Steering, Brake System, Chassis/Body Electrical: Electrical System, Wiring Diagram Comfort And Convenience: Heater/Air Conditioner, Interior Safety And Restraint: Restraint System Procedures Included Maintenance: General Maintenance, Periodic Lubrication, Maintenance Check List, Maintenance Chart Diagnostics And Repair: Troubleshooting, Engine Repair, Transmission Repair, Brake System Repair, Suspension Repair, Steering Repair, Cooling System Repair, Fuel Injection Repair, Fuel System Repair, Emission System Repair, HVAC Repair, Electrical System Repair, Chassis/Body Repair, Interior Repair Technical Data: Circuits, Diagrams, Equipments, Technical Data Engine Overhaul: Detailed procedures for disassembly, inspection, repair, and reassembly of all engine components. Transmission Rebuild: Comprehensive steps for rebuilding manual and automatic transmissions. Electrical Diagnostics: In-depth wiring diagrams and troubleshooting guides for all electrical circuits. Body And Chassis Repair: Guidelines for body panel repair, frame straightening, and suspension component replacement. Technical Depth Depth: Complete factory level diagnostics, repair, and maintenance procedures. Diagnostic Tools: Procedures often reference specific tools and diagnostic techniques relevant to the era. Torque Specifications: Includes torque values for all critical fasteners across various systems. Adjustment Procedures: Detailed steps for adjusting carburetor, ignition timing, clutch, and other critical components. Special Tool Requirements: May list specific Ford or Mercury special tools needed for certain procedures. 📊 Manual Specifications File Format File Type: PDF Compatibility: All Versions of Windows & Mac Requirements: Adobe PDF Reader, WinZip (for larger archives) Print Quality Quality: High Quality Printable Pages Binding Type Type: Digital Download (not physical binding) Paper Type Type: N/A (Digital) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine Options: 2.3L (140 ci) OHC Inline-4 (Pinto/Lima), 2.8L (171 ci) OHC V6, 3.8L (232 ci) OHV V6, 5.0L (302 ci) OHV V8 (CFI and Carbureted) Performance Horsepower Range: Approx. 88 hp (2.3L) to 157 hp (5.0L V8) Torque Range: Approx. 118 lb-ft (2.3L) to 240 lb-ft (5.0L V8) Fuel System Fuel Delivery: Carburetor (Holley 2150, Motorcraft 740 CFM) or Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI, CFI) 🔧 Transmission Standard Transmission Options: 4-speed manual, 5-speed manual (T5), 3-speed automatic (C3, AOD) Optional Optional Transmission: 5-speed manual, 3-speed automatic (AOD) Features Clutch Type: Hydraulic clutch actuation (manual transmissions) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 104.2 inches (2647 mm) Length: Approx. 180-183 inches (4572-4648 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 2,800 - 3,100 lbs (1270 - 1406 kg) 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Ratings: Vehicle specific ratings may vary by year and configuration; early 80s safety standards were less stringent than modern ones. Active Features Active Safety Features: Power assisted front disc brakes, Rear drum brakes, Optional power steering. Passive Features Passive Safety Features: Lap and shoulder belts, Padded dashboard, Energy absorbing steering column. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM/FM Radio, Optional Cassette Player, Optional Amplifier. Driver Assistance Driver Assistance Features: Limited to basic features like power steering (optional) and potentially cruise control (optional). 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months, consult manual for specific engine/oil type. Tune Up Interval: Variable, dependent on ignition system (points/condenser vs. electronic), typically 15,000-30,000 miles. Fluid Specifications Engine Oil: API Service SG/SF or higher, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40). Capacity: 4-5 quarts with filter. Coolant: Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: 9-12 quarts depending on engine. Transmission Fluid Auto: Mercon / Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity: 7-10 quarts for AOD, 6-7 quarts for C3. Transmission Fluid Manual: API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil. Brake Fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4. Known Issues Common Wear Items: Carburetor wear, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), exhaust system rust, suspension bushings, and engine mounts. Potential Problems: Rust on body panels and undercarriage, electrical gremlins, starter motor issues, fuel delivery problems, transmission hard shifts. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Brand Context: Mercury was positioned as a mid-range brand by Ford, offering a sportier alternative to mainstream Ford models. Model Evolution Model Development: The Capri, a rebadged European Ford Capri, was introduced to the US market in the 1970s. The 1979 model marked a significant redesign, moving to the globally shared Fox platform, which also underpinned the Ford Mustang and Mercury Zephyr. Production Manufacturing...
Limited to basic features like power steering (optional) and potentially cruise control (optional).
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals
Oil Change Interval:
Typically 3,000 miles or 3 months, consult manual for specific engine/oil type.
Tune Up Interval:
Variable, dependent on ignition system (points/condenser vs. electronic), typically 15,000-30,000 miles.
Fluid Specifications
Engine Oil:
API Service SG/SF or higher, viscosity varies by temperature (e.g., 5W-30, 10W-30, 10W-40). Capacity: 4-5 quarts with filter.
Coolant:
Ethylene glycol based antifreeze, 50/50 mix with distilled water. Capacity: 9-12 quarts depending on engine.
Transmission Fluid Auto:
Mercon / Dexron II or equivalent. Capacity: 7-10 quarts for AOD, 6-7 quarts for C3.
Transmission Fluid Manual:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 or SAE 80W-90 gear oil.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 3 or DOT 4.
Known Issues
Common Wear Items:
Carburetor wear, ignition system components (points, condenser, coil), exhaust system rust, suspension bushings, and engine mounts.
Potential Problems:
Rust on body panels and undercarriage, electrical gremlins, starter motor issues, fuel delivery problems, transmission hard shifts.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Context:
Mercury was positioned as a mid-range brand by Ford, offering a sportier alternative to mainstream Ford models.
Model Evolution
Model Development:
The Capri, a rebadged European Ford Capri, was introduced to the US market in the 1970s. The 1979 model marked a significant redesign, moving to the globally shared Fox platform, which also underpinned the Ford Mustang and Mercury Zephyr.
Production
Manufacturing Location:
United States (Michigan)
Key Competitors:
Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, AMC Javelin, Dodge Challenger (early years), Toyota Celica, Datsun Z-cars.