Tailgate (Hatchback and Estate models) - removal and refitting
Note: On Hatchback models made before 1990 with an integral heated rear window/radio aerial, note that the radio aerial lead is routed through different openings to that of other models in the rear bodywork and the tailgate. If a new, later-specification tailgate is to be fitted to an earlier vehicle, a new opening must be made in the bodywork for the aerial lead. Ideally, this work should be carried out by a Ford dealer, who will have the necessary template available to ensure that the opening is positioned accurately.
Removal
1 Disconnect the battery negative lead.
2 Open the tailgate and prise out the trim panel using a wide-bladed screwdriver.
3 Disconnect the wiring from the heated rear window, rear wash/wipe, interior light, lock solenoid and “tailgate ajar” sensor, as applicable. Disconnect the washer fluid hose where applicable; be prepared for fluid spillage.
4 Release the wiring loom/hose grommet(s) taking care not to lose it/them, then tie string to the wiring loom(s)/hose, and pull the loom(s)/hose through the tailgate. Leave the string(s) in position in the tailgate to aid refitting of the loom(s)/hose.
5 Have an assistant support the tailgate, then disconnect the support struts by prising out the retaining clips. Do not remove the clips completely, just raise them by a maximum of 4.0 mm (0.16 in) and then pull the struts off their mountings (see illustration).
11.5 Prising out a tailgate strut retaining clip
6 Prise out the hinge fixing covers from the headlining, unscrew the hinge nuts and washers, and with the aid of the assistant, withdraw the tailgate from the vehicle (see illustration).
11.6 Tailgate hinge assembly - Hatchback and Estate models
Refitting
7 Refitting is a reversal of removal, but do not
fully tighten the hinge nuts until the tailgate is
positioned centrally in its aperture. If
necessary, adjust the position of the lock
striker so that it engages fully in the lock.
See also:
Exhaust gas oxygen (HEGO) sensor (2.0 litre DOHC/1.6 & 1.8 litre (R6A type)
CVH) - removal and refitting
Note: Do not touch the tip of the HEGO
sensor as this will drastically shorten its
service life.
Note: A new sealing ring should be used on
refitting.
Removal
1 Ensure that the engine and the ex ...
Inner gutter weatherstrip (Saloon, Hatchback and Estate models) - removal
and refitting
Removal
1 Open both the front and rear doors to
expose the relevant weatherstrip.
2 Carefully pull the weatherstrip from the
base of the front pillar, taking care to release
the flap which is stu ...
Specifications
Fuel evaporative emission control system - carburettor engines
Ported vacuum switch operating temperature:
Two-port valve . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
. . . . ...