Basic Information Identification Make: Ford Model: Taurus Year: 1997 Body Style: Sedan / Wagon Introduction Market Position Positioning: The 1997 Ford Taurus represented the third generation of Ford's highly successful mid-size sedan, competing in a segment dominated by models like the Chevrolet Lumina, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord. Competitive Analysis Strengths: Known for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and distinct oval styling. Offered multiple engine choices to cater to different buyer needs. Key Features Design Era: This generation (1996-1999) featured a significant redesign with smoother, more aerodynamic styling, moving away from the previous generation's sharper lines. Performance Variant: The SHO (Super High Output) model offered a high-revving Yamaha-developed V8 engine and sport-tuned suspension for enhanced performance. Manual Details Coverage Areas Overall Coverage: Comprehensive A-Z Service and Repair Model Variants Covered: All 1997 Ford Taurus models (including GL, LX, SE, SHO) Page Count Estimated Pages: 1500+ Manual Type Type: Factory Service Manual / Workshop Manual Language Language: English Format Format: PDF Download Manual Coverage Systems Covered Engine Mechanical: Complete overhaul, diagnosis, repair, and specifications for all 1997 Taurus engines. Engine Performance: Fuel injection systems, ignition systems, emissions control, cooling systems, lubrication systems. Transmission Manual: Service and repair for AX4N/AX4S automatic transmissions, including disassembly, assembly, and diagnosis. Transmission Automatic: Complete coverage of automatic transmission operation, diagnosis, and repair procedures. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive axle and driveshaft service, diagnosis, and repair. Suspension: Front and rear suspension components, alignment specifications, shock absorber and strut replacement, control arm and ball joint service. Steering: Power steering system diagnosis, repair, pump and rack replacement, steering column service. Brakes: Front and rear brake systems (disc and drum), ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) diagnosis and repair, hydraulic system service, pad and rotor replacement. Electrical System: Complete wiring diagrams, component locations, diagnostic procedures for all electrical systems. Body: Body panel repair, door and window mechanisms, interior trim, exterior trim, weatherstripping, panel replacement. HVAC: Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system diagnosis, refrigerant handling, component replacement. Safety Systems: Airbag system diagnosis and service, seat belt mechanisms. Procedures Included Preventive Maintenance: Detailed schedules and procedures for oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks, belt inspections, and tune-ups. Troubleshooting: Extensive diagnostic charts and procedures for identifying and resolving common and uncommon issues. Repair Procedures: Step-by-step instructions for virtually all repair and replacement tasks. Component Replacement: Detailed guidance for replacing major and minor components across all vehicle systems. Diagnostic Trouble Codes: Explanation of DTCs and diagnostic strategies for powertrain and other systems. Technical Depth Depth: Full Factory Service Manual - Suitable for DIY enthusiasts and professional technicians. Diagnostics: Advanced diagnostic procedures, including use of scan tools and specific system checks. Specifications: Includes torque values, clearances, fluid capacities, electrical specifications, and performance data. Manual Specifications File Format Type: PDF Searchable: Yes (Text-searchable) Print Quality Quality: High-resolution scanned images for clear diagrams and text. Binding Type Binding: N/A (Digital Download) Paper Type Paper: N/A (Digital Download) Engine Specifications Primary Engine Engine 1: 3.0L Vulcan V6 (OHV) Engine 1 Displacement: 2986 cc (182 ci) Engine 1 Bore X Stroke: 3.54 x 3.15 in (90 x 80 mm) Engine 1 Horsepower: 145 hp @ 4800 rpm Engine 1 Torque: 172 lb-ft @ 3700 rpm Engine 1 Compression Ratio: 9.0:1 Engine 1 Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Secondary Engine Engine 2: 3.0L Duratec V6 (DOHC) Engine 2 Displacement: 2967 cc (181 ci) Engine 2 Bore X Stroke: 3.50 x 3.15 in (89 x 80 mm) Engine 2 Horsepower: 200 hp @ 6250 rpm Engine 2 Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 4800 rpm Engine 2 Compression Ratio: 10.0:1 Engine 2 Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) Performance Variant Engine Engine 3 Sho: 3.4L SHO V8 (DOHC) Engine 3 Sho Displacement: 3404 cc (208 ci) Engine 3 Sho Bore X Stroke: 3.30 x 3.00 in (84 x 76 mm) Engine 3 Sho Horsepower: 235 hp @ 6000 rpm Engine 3 Sho Torque: 230 lb-ft @ 4500 rpm Engine 3 Sho Compression Ratio: 9.4:1 Engine 3 Sho Fuel System: Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection (SEFI) Transmission Standard Transmission 1: 4-speed Automatic (AX4N/AX4S) Optional Transmission 2: 5-speed Manual (MTX-75) - Available on some models, particularly with the 3.0L Duratec. Features Overdrive: All automatic transmissions feature overdrive (4th gear). Transmission Fluid Spec Ax4N: Mercon V (or equivalent) Transmission Fluid Capacity Ax4N: Approx. 10.8 US quarts (10.2 Liters) Dimensions Exterior Length Sedan: 199.7 inches (5072 mm) Width: 73.1 inches (1857 mm) Height Sedan: 55.2 inches (1402 mm) Wheelbase: 107.5 inches (2731 mm) Interior Passenger Volume: Approx. 100-104 cu ft Cargo Trunk Volume Sedan: Approx. 16.0 cu ft Weights Curb Weight Base Model: Approx. 3300-3500 lbs (1497-1588 kg) Gross Vehicle Weight Rating: Approx. 4500-4700 lbs Towing Capacity: Not typically recommended for significant towing. Safety Features Ratings NHTSA Frontal Driver: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars) for 1997-1999 models in frontal impact. NHTSA Frontal Passenger: ★★★★☆ (4/5 stars) for 1997-1999 models in frontal impact....