Introduction

General information This Chapter is designed to help the home mechanic maintain his/her vehicle for safety, economy, long life and peak performance.

The Chapter contains a master maintenance schedule, followed by Sections dealing specifically with each task on the schedule. Visual checks, adjustments, component renewal and other helpful items are included. Refer to the accompanying illustrations of the engine compartment and the underside of the vehicle for the locations of the various components.

Servicing of your vehicle in accordance with the mileage/time maintenance schedule and the following Sections will provide a planned maintenance program, which should result in a long and reliable service life. This is a comprehensive plan, so maintaining some items but not others at the specified service intervals will not produce the same results.

As you service your vehicle, you will discover that many of the procedures can - and should - be grouped together because of the particular procedure being performed, or because of the close proximity of two otherwise unrelated components to one another. For example, if the vehicle is raised for any reason, the exhaust can be inspected at the same time as the suspension and steering components.

The first step in this maintenance program is to prepare yourself before the actual work begins. Read through all the Sections relevant to the work to be carried out, then make a list and gather together all the parts and tools required. If a problem is encountered, seek advice from a parts specialist, or a dealer service department.

    See also:

    Final drive oil level check (Every 12 000 miles (20 000 km) or 12 months)
    1 Check the final drive oil level as follows. 2 Position the vehicle over a pit, or raise it at front and rear on ramps or axle stands. The vehicle must be level. 3 Wipe clean around the final dri ...

    Front suspension lower arm (forged type) - removal, overhaul and refitting
    1 The forged type suspension arm is fitted to all models except pre-May 1983 1.1 litre versions. Removal 2 Jack up the front of the car and support it on stands (see “Jacking and Vehicle Support” ...

    Engine - removal leaving manual gearbox in vehicle
    Note: The air conditioning system should always be discharged by a Ford dealer or air conditioning specialist. Note: Refer to the warning in Section 8 before proceeding. A suitable hoist and lifti ...