Manual Coverage
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Systems Covered
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Engine Mechanical:
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Engine overhaul, cylinder head, pistons, crankshaft, lubrication system, cooling system, timing belt replacement, component diagnostics.
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Engine Electrical:
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Ignition system, starting and charging system, fuel injection system (EFI), ECU diagnostics, sensor testing, wiring diagrams.
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Transmission Manual:
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Clutch system, transmission overhaul, gear shifting mechanisms, torque specifications.
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Transmission Automatic:
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Automatic transmission overhaul, valve body, torque converter, transmission control module (TCM) diagnostics, fluid service, shift control.
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Drivetrain:
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Front-wheel drive (FWD) axle shafts, differential, driveshaft, universal joints, rear-wheel drive (RWD) components (if applicable to specific trims).
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Suspension:
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Front suspension (independent), rear suspension (leaf spring), shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings, alignment procedures.
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Steering:
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Power steering system, steering column, steering rack/gearbox, tie rods, ball joints, troubleshooting steering issues.
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Brakes:
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Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (typical for this era), brake system bleeding, master cylinder, brake lines, ABS system (if equipped), parking brake.
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Electrical System:
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Lighting system, horn, wipers, power windows, power locks, interior and exterior electrical components, fuses, relays, wiring diagrams.
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HVAC:
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Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system components, refrigerant servicing, blower motor, control panel, dash removal for access.
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Body Interior:
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Interior trim removal, seat removal, dashboard assembly, door panels, headliner, body panel removal and installation.
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Body Exterior:
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Fenders, hood, doors, tailgate, bumpers, glass replacement, seals, body repair principles.
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Procedures Included
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Preventative Maintenance:
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Oil changes, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, battery maintenance.
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Diagnostic Procedures:
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Step-by-step troubleshooting for common and uncommon drivability issues, electrical faults, and mechanical problems.
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Repair Procedures:
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Detailed, illustrated procedures for component removal, repair, and reinstallation across all major vehicle systems.
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Torque Specifications:
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Precise torque values for all critical fasteners to ensure proper assembly and prevent damage.
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Wiring Diagrams:
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Complete electrical schematics for all vehicle systems, aiding in diagnosis and repair.
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Troubleshooting Charts:
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Logical flowcharts to assist in identifying and resolving specific problems.
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Technical Depth
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Depth Level:
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Comprehensive: Covers everything from basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission overhauls, including advanced diagnostics.
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Maintenance
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Service Intervals
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Oil Change Interval:
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Every 3,000 - 5,000 miles or 3-6 months, whichever comes first (check manual for specific recommendations).
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Timing Belt Replacement:
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Recommended every 60,000 - 90,000 miles or 5-7 years due to potential for catastrophic engine damage if it breaks.
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Fluid Specifications
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Engine Oil Type:
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API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 (depending on climate, consult manual).
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Engine Oil Capacity:
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Approximately 4.5 - 5.0 quarts (with filter).
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Coolant Type:
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Ethylene glycol-based coolant (typically green, consult manual for specific Mazda/Ford spec).
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Transmission Fluid Manual:
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API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 Gear Oil.
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Transmission Fluid Automatic:
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Dexron III (or equivalent) automatic transmission fluid.
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Brake Fluid Type:
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DOT 3.
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Known Issues
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Common Wear Items:
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Ball joints, tie rod ends, idler/pitman arms (steering wear), rear axle seals, exhaust system corrosion, timing belt tensioner/idler pulley failure.
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Engine Reliability:
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The 3.0L V6 is generally robust, but timing belt maintenance is critical. Early models might have had intake manifold gasket leaks.
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