🏷️ Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Cougar Year: 1968 Codes Body Style: Personal Luxury Coupe 👋 Introduction Market Position Vehicle Segment: Personal Luxury Coupe Target Audience: Enthusiasts, classic car owners, mechanics specializing in vintage Fords Competitive Analysis Competitors 1968: Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Plymouth Barracuda, AMC Javelin Key Features Vehicle Usp: Stylish, sporty personal luxury coupe offering a blend of performance and comfort. Manual Usp: Comprehensive factory-level repair and maintenance guidance for the 1968 Cougar, enabling self-sufficiency in upkeep. 📋 Manual Details Coverage Areas Primary Coverage: Mechanical Repair and Maintenance Secondary Coverage: Electrical Systems, Body and Chassis Page Count Estimated Pages: Hundreds (Specific count not provided, but implied to be extensive) Manual Type Type: Factory Service Repair Manual Language Language: English Format Delivery Format: PDF via Email Link 📖 Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Engine overhaul, tuning, cooling system, lubrication system, fuel delivery (carburetor), ignition system, exhaust system Transmission: Manual and Automatic transmission service, repair, and overhaul Drivetrain: Driveshaft, rear axle assembly, universal joints Suspension: Front and rear suspension, steering system, alignment specifications Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (drum and potential early disc), hydraulic systems, parking brake Electrical: Wiring diagrams, lighting system, charging system (generator/alternator), starting system, instrumentation, accessories Body Chassis: Chassis components, body panels, door mechanisms, window regulators, interior trim, weatherstripping Procedures Included Maintenance: Oil changes, filter replacements, lubrication, fluid checks and changes, tune-ups Troubleshooting: Diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon problems, symptom-based troubleshooting guides Repair Overhaul: Step-by-step instructions for component disassembly, repair, reassembly, and adjustment Special Tools: Identification and usage of specialized tools required for specific repairs Technical Depth Depth Of Coverage: Comprehensive; covers everything from basic fluid changes to complete engine and transmission rebuilds Diagnostic Capability: Advanced diagnostic procedures for identifying the root cause of issues Illustrations: Numerous illustrations and diagrams to aid understanding Searchability: Searchable PDF format for quick access to information Printability: Printable pages for hands-on use in the workshop 📊 Manual Specifications File Format Format: PDF Print Quality Quality: High quality, suitable for professional use Binding Type Binding: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) Paper Type Paper Type: Not Applicable (Digital PDF) ⚙️ Engine Specifications Primary Engine Base Engine 1968: 289 cu in (4.7L) V8 Optional Engines 1968: 302 cu in (5.0L) V8, 390 cu in (6.4L) V8, 427 cu in (7.0L) V8 (performance variants) Performance Horsepower 289: Approx. 200 hp (varies by carb/tune) Torque 289: Approx. 282 lb-ft (varies by carb/tune) Fuel System Carburetion: Typically 2-barrel or 4-barrel Autolite carburetors Fuel Type: Unleaded gasoline (as available in 1968, leaded was common) 🔧 Transmission Standard Standard Transmission: 3-speed Manual (often column shift) Optional Optional Transmission 1: 4-speed Manual (e.g., Toploader) Optional Transmission 2: 3-speed Automatic (SelectShift Cruise-O-Matic) Features Transmission Fluid Spec: Mercon (or equivalent for automatic transmissions of the era, e.g., Type F) 📐 Dimensions Exterior Wheelbase: 108 inches (2743 mm) Length: Approx. 197 inches (5004 mm) Weights Curb Weight: Approx. 3,300 - 3,700 lbs (1497 - 1678 kg), depending on engine and options 🛡️ Safety Features Ratings Crash Test Ratings: No formal ratings available from modern agencies for this era; built to 1960s safety standards. Active Features Brakes Type: Front drum brakes standard; front disc brakes optional/standard on higher trims. Passive Features Seat Belts: Lap belts standard; shoulder belts optional/not universally equipped. Steering Column: Collapsible steering column for improved impact protection. 💡 Technology Features Infotainment Audio System: AM radio standard, FM stereo optional; aftermarket upgrades common. Driver Assistance Power Steering: Optional on smaller engines, standard on larger V8s. Power Brakes: Optional, especially with front disc brakes. Connectivity Connectivity Features: None by modern standards; primarily mechanical and basic electrical systems. 🔧 Maintenance Service Intervals Oil Change Interval: Every 3,000-5,000 miles or 3-6 months (recommendation based on era and modern understanding) Tune Up Interval: Every 12,000-15,000 miles (spark plugs, points, condenser, filters) Fluid Specifications Engine Oil Spec: SAE 10W-30 or SAE 10W-40 (for engines not requiring break-in oil additives) Coolant Spec: 50/50 Ethylene Glycol Antifreeze/Coolant and distilled water Brake Fluid Spec: DOT 3 Hydraulic Brake Fluid (ensure compatibility with original seals) Known Issues Common Wear Items: Upholstery, weather stripping, suspension bushings, carburetor tuning, electrical contacts Potential Corrosion Areas: Wheel wells, door bottoms, chassis frame rails, trunk floor. 📚 Vehicle History Brand Heritage Ford Legacy: Ford Motor Company, a long-standing American automotive manufacturer with a history of innovation and mass production. Model Evolution Cougar Introduction: Introduced in 1967 as a more luxurious and performance-oriented sibling to the Mustang, targeting the personal luxury segment. Cougar 1968 Changes: Minor styling updates, including grille revisions, new taillights, and side marker lights for 1968, reflecting evolving safety regulations. Production Production Location: Dearborn, Michigan, USA Production Years: 1967-1973 (First Generation) 🏆 Awards & Recognition Recognitions Model Accolades: Launched as a 'Car of the Year' contender by many automotive publications upon its debut. Competed successfully in its segment. Ratings Vintage Appeal:...