length FORD FESTIVA 1991 User Guide

CLUNK
Clunk is a metallic noise heard when an automatic transmission is engaged in Reverse or Drive, or when throttle is applied or released. It is
caused by backlash somewhere in the driveline, but not necessarily in the axle. To determine whether driveline clunk is caused by the axle,
check the total axle backlash as follows:
1. Raise vehicle on a frame or twinpost hoist so that drive wheels are free. Clamp a bar between axle companion flange and a part of the
frame or body so that flange cannot move.
2. On conventional drive axles, lock the left wheel to keep it from turning. On all models, turn the right wheel slowly until it is felt to be in
drive condition. Hold a chalk marker on side of tire about 12" from center of wheel. Turn wheel in the opposite direction until it is again
felt to be in drive condition.
3. Measure the length of the chalk mark, which is the total axle backlash. If backlash is one inch or less, clunk will not be eliminated by
overhauling drive axle.
BEARING WHINE
Bearing whine is a high-pitched sound similar to a whistle. It is usually caused by malfunctioning pinion bearings. Pinion bearings operate at
driveshaft speed. Roller wheel bearings may whine in a similar manner if they run completely dry of lubricant. Bearing noise will occur at all
driving speeds. This distinguishes it from gear whine, which usually comes and goes as speed changes.
BEARING RUMBLE
Bearing rumble sounds like marbles being tumbled. It is usually caused by a malfunctioning wheel bearing. The lower pitch is because the
wheel bearing turns at only about 1/3 of driveshaft speed.
CHATTER ON TURNS
This is a condition where the whole front or rear vibrates when vehicle is moving. The vibration is easily felt and heard. Extra differential
thrust washers installed during axle repair can cause a condition of partial lock-up that creates the chatter.
AXLE SHAFT NOISE
Axle shaft noise is similar to gear noise and pinion bearing whine. Axle shaft bearing noise will normally distinguish itself from gear noise by
occurring in all driving modes. Noise will persist with transmission in neutral while vehicle is moving at problem speed.
If vehicle displays this noise condition, remove suspect axle shafts and replace axle bearings. Re-evaluate vehicle for noise before removing
any internal components.
VIB R AT ION
Vibration is a high-frequency trembling, shaking or grinding condition (felt or heard) that may be constant or variable in level and con occur
during the total operating speed range of the vehicle.
The types of vibrations that can be felt in the vehicle can be divided into 3 main groups:
Vibrations of various unbalanced rotating parts of the vehicle.
Resonance vibrations of the body and frame structures caused by rotating of unbalance parts.
Tip-in moans of resonance vibrations from stressed engine or exhaust system mounts or driveline flexing modes. NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00002193
Page 2 of 2 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - GENERAL INFORMATION Drive Axle Noise Diagnosis
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Wheel Alignm ent T heory & Operation
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
PRE-ALIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS
GENERAL ALIGNMENT CHECKS
Before adjusting wheel alignment, check the following:
Each axle uses tires of same construction and tread style, equal in tread wear and overall diameter. Verify that radial and axial runout is
not excessive. Inflation should be at manufacturer's specifications.
Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive play. Check for wear in tie rod ends and ball joints. Springs must not be
sagging. Control arm and strut rod bushings must not have excessive play. See Fig. 1
.

Fig. 1: Checking Steering Linkage

Vehicle must be on level floor with full fuel tank, no passenger load, spare tire in place and no load in trunk. Bounce front and rear end
of vehicle several times. Confirm vehicle is at normal riding height.
Steering wheel must be centered with wheels in straight ahead position. If required, shorten one tie rod adjusting sleeve and lengthen
opposite sleeve (equal amount of turns). See Fig. 2
.
Wheel bearings should have the correct preload and lug nuts must be tightened to manufacturer's specifications. Adjust camber, caster
and toe-in using this sequence. Follow instructions of the alignment equipment manufacturer. NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. For m odel-specific inform ation see appropriate articles where
available.
CAUT ION: DO NOT attem pt to correct alignm ent by straightening parts. Dam aged parts MUST be replaced.
Page 1 of 4 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - GENERAL INFORMATION Wheel Alignment Theory & Operation
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compressor label before adding refrigerant oil to A/C compressor/system. See Fig. 2 . The following R-134a refrigerant oils are currently
available.
Lexus
PAG Refrigerant Oil (ND-OIL 8) with 10P/10PA swashplate (piston) compressor. Synthetic Refrigerant Oil (ND-OIL 9) with through-va n e
(rotary vane) compressor.
Mercedes-Benz
PAG Refrigerant Oil (001 989 08 03).
Nissan
PAG Refrigerant Oil (KLH00-PAGR0) with rotary vane compressor. PAG Refrigerant Oil (KLH00-PAGS0) with piston (swashplate)
compressor.
Saab
PAG Refrigerant Oil (40 74 787).
SERVICE EQUIPMENT
Because R-134a is not interchangeable with R-12, separate sets of hoses, manifold gauge set and recovery/recycling equipment are required to
service vehicles. This is necessary to avoid cross-contaminating and damaging system.
All equipment used to service systems using R-134a must meet SAE standard J1991. The service hoses on the manifold gauge set must have
manual (turn wheel) or automatic back-flow valves at the service port connector ends. This will prevent refrigerant from being released into
the atmosphere.
For identification purposes, R-134a service hoses must have a Black stripe along its length and be clearly labeled SAE J2196/R-134a. The low
pressure test hose is Blue with a Black stripe. The high pressure test hose is Red with a Black stripe, and the center test hose is Yellow with a
Black stripe.
R-134a manifold gauge sets can be identified by one or all of the following.
Labeled FOR USE WITH R-134a on set
Labeled HFC-134 or R-134a on gauge face
Light Blue color on gauge face
In addition, pressure/temperature scales on R-134a gauge sets are different from R-12 manifold gauge sets.
SYSTEM SERVICE VALVES
SCHRADER-TYPE VALVES
Schrader valve is similar in construction and operation to a tire valve. When a test gauge hose with built-in valve core depressor is attached,
Schrader stem is pushed inward to the open position and allows system pressure to reach gauge.
If test hose does not have a built-in core depressor, an adapter must be used. Never attach hose or adapter to Schrader valve unless it is first
connected to manifold gauge set.
Refrigerant R-12 Schrader-type valve cores have TV5 thread size. Refrigerant R-134a Schrader-type valve cores use M6 (Metric) threads. R-
134a valve cores can be easily identified by use of "O" rings and external spring. See Fig. 1
.
SERVICE VALVE LOCATIONS
SERVICE VALVE LOCATIONS NOTE:Synthetic/PAG oils absorb m oisture very rapidly, 2.3-5.6% by weight, as com pared to a m ineral oil
absorption rate of .005% by weight.
NOTE:Refrigerant R-12 service hoses will ONLY be labeled SAE J2196.
NOTE:Although sim ilar in construction and operation to a tire valve, NEVER replace a Schrader-type valve
with a tire valve.
VehicleHighLow
Audi(14) (15)
Acura(2) (3)
BMW(4) (5)
Chrysler, Eagle & Mitsubishi
Colt, Mirage & Summit(10) (11)
Colt Vista & Summit Wagon(10) (11)
Diamante(1) (1)
Eclipse & Expo(10) (11)
Galant(10) (11)
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...

whichever occurs first.
POWERTRAIN WARRANTY
Under this warranty, certain parts of the engine, transmission, axle and driveline are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship
for either 4 years/50,000 or 6 years/60,000 miles, depending on the model year. This coverage begins after 12 months or 12,000 miles. See
copy of warranty for specific components covered and length of coverage.
BUMPER-TO-BUMPER COVERAGE
All 1992-93 vehicles have complete warranty coverage against defects in materials and workmanship for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever
occurs first. There is no deductible with this warranty. Items not covered include tires and parts that are subject to normal wear and tear, such
as windshield wiper blades, brake linings, brake pads, clutch linings and scheduled maintenance items. There is no extended powertrain
coverage included in this warranty.
BATTERY COVERAGE
Begins at warranty start date and lasts up to 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever occurs first. For the first 12 months in service (less than
36,000 miles), battery will be replaced at no charge. After that, battery will be replaced on a customer-participation basis: For the 13th-24th
month in service, Ford will pay 50%; for the 25th-36th month, Ford will pay 25%. Labor is covered for 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever
occurs first.
SAFETY RESTRAINT SYSTEM COVERAGE
Begins at warranty start date and lasts for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first. Covers safety restraint problems not related to
comfort or appearance. Coverage for model years earlier than 1990 is 3 years with unlimited miles.
CORROSION COVERAGE
Begins at warranty start date and lasts for 6 years or 60,000 miles, whichever occurs first. 1992-93 models are covered for 6 years or 100,000
miles, whichever occurs first. Covers any holes in body sheet metal caused by corrosion.
EMISSIONS DEFECT & PERFORMANCE WARRANTIES (EXCEPT CALIFORNIA)
Defect Warranty ensures that vehicle meets applicable EPA regulations and that vehicle's emission control system is free from defects in
materials and workmanship for a period of 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
The Performance Warranty covers all costs of repairing or adjusting any components or parts as needed for the vehicle to pass a Federally
required state or local emissions test.
Other emission control parts related to these components are covered by the Performance Warranty, where applicable. If another part fails due
to the failure of one of these components, both parts are covered. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items co vered .
Performance Warranty coverage is limited to fewer components after 2 years or 24,000 miles.
EMISSIONS PERFORMANCE WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
If vehicle fails a Smog Check inspection, all necessary repairs and adjustments will be made by manufacturer to ensure that vehicle passes the
inspection. Warranty begins at warranty start date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
EMISSIONS DEFECT WARRANTY (CALIFORNIA)
If any emission-related part on the vehicle is defective, the part will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer. Warranty begins at warranty start
date and lasts for a period of 3 years or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.
Some emission-related parts are warranted for 7 years or 70,000 miles whichever occurs first, and will be repaired or replaced by manufacturer
if found to be defective in material or workmanship. See customer's copy of warranty information for specific items covered.
FUSES & FUSIBLE LINKS
FUSE PANEL & FUSIBLE LINK BLOCK LOCATIONS
The vehicle has a fuse block with fusible links and a fuse panel with circuit fuses. The fuse panel is located behind the instrument panel, left o
f
the steering column. The fuse block is located under the hood.
FUSE PANEL IDENTIFICATION NOTE:Powertrain Warranty varies in coverage length (4 years/50,000 m iles or 6 years/60,000 m iles) depending
on model year.
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and disconnect cable from lock housing. Using slim-nose locking pliers, grip and remove round headed shear screws securing column
lock housing and cap to column jacket. See Fig. 2
.
2. Remove lock housing. To install lock housing, position lock cylinder and cap on column jacket. Using new screws, tighten only enough
to hold lock housing in position. Use ignition key to ensure lock works correctly without binding. Adjust switch if necessary. Tighten
shear screws until heads break off. Install ignition switch in cylinder. Reverse removal procedures to complete installation.
STEERING COLUMN
Removal & Installation (Capri)
1. Place wheels in a straight-ahead position. Remove ignition key and lock steering wheel. Disconnect negative battery cable and air bag
back-up power supply. Back-up power supply is a Blue rectangular unit located behind glove box, attached to instrument panel.
2. Remove air bag module from steering wheel. Remove steering column access cover and trim panel. Remove defroster duct connecting
hose. Remove steering column lower shroud. Loosen lower steering c o l u mn r e t a in in g n u t s. R e mo ve st e e r in g c o l u mn u p p e r r e t a in in g
nuts.
3. Remove ignition lock shield and ignition switch mount screw. Disconnect all necessary electrical connectors. Mark and remove steering
shaft universal joint bolt. Remove steering column from instrument panel. To install, reverse removal procedure. Once steering column
is completely installed, check all switches and functions for proper operation.
Removal (Festiva)
1. Disconnect battery ground cable. Place wheels in a straight-ahead position. Remove steering wheel, upper and lower column covers,
combination switch, ignition switch and harness connectors.
2. Remove steering column shield and air duct from below steering column. Remove 2 steering column upper mounting bracket-to-
instrument panel crossmember nuts.
3. Lower upper end of column as necessary to gain access to intermediate shaft upper "U" joint. Mark steering shaft and upper "U" jo in t fo r
reassembly reference.
4. Remove "U" joint attaching bolt. Loosen 2 steering column hinge bracket-to-clutch/brake pedal support nuts. Remove steering column
with upper "U" joint by pulling toward passenger compartment.
Installation (Festiva)
1. Align marks made during removal and install column with intermediate shaft upper "U" joint over intermediate shaft. Install, but do not
tighten, "U" joint clamp bolt.
2. Install and tighten hinge bracket nuts. Install shim clips on column upper bracket flanges (if removed). Position upper end of steering
column to instrument panel mounting studs.
3. Install upper bracket retaining nuts. Turn steering wheel lock-to-lock several times to align "U" joint splines. Tighten "U" joint clamp
bolt.
4. Install air duct and instrument panel brace. Install harness connectors, ignition switch, combination switch, upper and lower column
covers and steering wheel.
OVERHAUL
STEERING COLUMN
Disassembly & Reassembly (Capri)
1. Remove steering column. See STEERING COLUMN under REMOVAL & INSTALLATION. Position steering column in soft-jawed
vise. Using Steering Wheel Remover (T67L-3600-A), remove steering wheel. Put 2 strips of tape on air bag clockspring, to avoid
rotation.
2. Remove 3 clockspring retaining screws and remove clockspring. With ignition key installed, rotate tumbler to Run position while
pushing tumbler release pin with .125" (3.17 mm) drift. Remove tumbler and upper column shroud. Remove key warning switch.
3. Remove bearing plate. Remove and discard snap ring located at front end of steering column. Remove multifunction switch. Remove
column lock and upper bearing using a suitable bearing puller. To reassemble, reverse disassembly procedure.
Disassembly (Festiva)
Disassembly of steering column assembly is not recommended by manufacturer. If any components are found defective, replace steering
column assembly.
Inspection (Festiva)
1. Measure steering shaft for signs of collapse. Steering shaft length should be between 23.86-23.94" (606-608 mm). If measurement is not
within specification, replace steering column assembly.
2. Check for steering shaft side play. Any detectable side play can adversely affect steering control. If side play in excess of .03" (.75 mm)
is present, bearings are badly worn. Replace steering column assembly.
Reassembly (Festiva)
NOTE:If steering rack and interm ediate shaft are also rem oved, "U" joints and interm ediate shaft m ust be
m arked for reassem bly reference. Both ends of shaft are identical.
CAUT ION: If steering shaft shear pins break during housing or bearing rem oval, the com plete shaft and colum n
m ust be replaced. T o determ ine if pins have sheared, m easure steering shaft from top end of shaft to
center of U-
joint bearing. If length is less than 24.23" (615.7 m m ) or greater than 24.66" (617.7 m m ), pins
have sheared.
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1983-95 WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Pre-Alignm ent Inspection Procedures
PRE-ALIGNMENT CHECKS
Before making wheel alignment adjustment, perform the following checks:
1. Tires should be equal in size and runout must not be excessive. Tires and wheels should be in balance, and inflated to manufacturer's
specifications.
2. Wheel bearings must be properly adjusted. Steering linkage and suspension must not have excessive looseness. Check for wear in tie rod
ends and ball joints.
3. Steering gear box must not have excessive play. Check and adjust to manufacturer's specifications.
4. Vehicle must be at curb height with full fuel load and spare tire in vehicle. No extra load should be on vehicle.
5. Vehicle must be level with floor and with suspension settled. Jounce front and rear of vehicle several times and allow it to settle to
normal curb height.
6. If steering wheel is not centered with front wheels in straight-ahead position, correct by shortening one tie rod adjusting sleeve and
lengthening opposite sleeve equal amounts.
7. Ensure wheel lug nuts are tightened to torque specifications.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00060347
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Fig. 2: Compressing Band Apply Servo

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
DIFFERENTIAL OIL SEALS R & I
Removal
1. Raise and support vehicle. Drain transaxle fluid. Carefully raise staked portion of axle nut. Apply brakes and loosen, but DO NOT
remove, axle nut. Remove lower control arm ball joint clamp bolt. Pry downward on lower control arm to separate control arm from
knuckle.
2. Insert pry bar between transaxle case and axle flange. Carefully apply force to pry bar until axle circlip is disengaged. Slide knuckle
assembly off axle shaft, and remove axle from vehicle. Quickly install appropriate plug in transaxle. Using appropriate puller, remove
seal.
Installation
1. Apply lubrication to new seal. Using appropriate driver, install seal. Install new circlip on transaxle end of axle. Remove transaxle plug,
and carefully install axle into transaxle. Ensure circlip snaps into retaining groove.
2. Install axle into hub. Install NEW axle nut. Tighten bolts to specifications. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS
. Stake NEW axle nut
with blunt nose chisel. To complete installation, reverse removal procedure. Fill transaxle fluid to correct level.
OIL COOLER FLUSHING
Contaminates MUST be removed from oil cooler before transmission is put back into service. Replace cooler supply tubes if leaking.
Thoroughly flush oil cooler and lines if a major service or transaxle removal has occurred. It is recommended that a mechanically agitated
cleaner, such as Rotunda (014-00028), be used.
VACUUM THROTTLE VALVE DIAPHRAGM (MODULATOR) R & I
Removal
1. Drain transaxle fluid. Disconnect vacuum hose from modulator. Unscrew modulator from transaxle. Remove control rod. With beveled
side out, insert Vacuum Diaphragm Rod Gauge (T87C-77000-A) into mounting hole until gauge bottoms out.
2. Place gauge rod through opening of gauge until rod bottoms out against vacuum throttle valve. Tighten lock knob on gauge and remove
tool. Using depth gauge, measure distance from flat surface of gauge to end of rod. See Fig. 3
. Select proper length throttle valve rod.
See THROTTLE VALVE ROD DIMENSION CHART
.
THROTTLE VALVE ROD DIMENSION CHART
Installation
Install selected throttle valve rod. Coat threads of modulator with appropriate sealant. To install, reverse removal procedures.
NOTE:If replacing m odulator, it is necessary to replace throttle control valve rod.
Measurement In. (mm)Applicable Rod Length In. (mm)
1.0 (25.4)1.16 (29.5)
1.0-1.02 (25.4-25.9)1.18 (30.0)
1.02-1.04 (25.9-26.4)1.20 (30.5)
1.04-1.06 (25.9-26.4)1.22 (31.0)
1.06-1.08 (26.9-27.4)1.24 (31.5)
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inspect and repair circuit between switch harness connector and fuse panel.
5.Check Kickdown Switch

Turn ignition off. Check continuity between kickdown switch terminals. Continuity should only exist with accelerator fully depressed. I
f
switch is functioning correctly, go to next step. Replace switch if it failed testing. Road test vehicle to verify repair.
6.Check Circuit Between Kickdown Switch & Kickdown Solenoid

Ensure ignition is off. Disconnect kickdown switch harness connector. Disconnect kickdown solenoid harness connector. Check
continuity of White/Black wire between switch harness connector and solenoid harness connector. If continuity does not exist, inspect
and repair open circuit as needed. If continuity exists, check continuity between White/Black wire terminal at solenoid harness
connector and ground. If continuity exists, inspect and repair short circuit as needed. If continuity does not exist, replace kickdown
solenoid.
VACUUM THROTTLE VALVE DIAPHRAGM (MODULATOR) TEST
1.Check System Integrity

Inspect all vacuum hoses and connections for leaks or damage. Disconnect vacuum hose at diaphragm connection and inspect for
leaking ATF. Repair as needed. Go to next step.
2.Check Vacuum At Modulator

Ensure ignition is off. Disconnect vacuum hose at modulator valve and connect vacuum gauge to hose. Start and run engine at idle.
Vacuum should be 15-22 In. Hg. If vacuum is not within specification, inspect and repair vacuum hose. If vacuum is within specification,
go to next step.
3.Check Modulator Valve Function

Turn ignition off. Remove modulator valve from transaxle. Connect hand-held vacuum pump to valve. Apply 16-20 In. Hg of vacuum.
Ensure vacuum is held by valve. Release vacuum and verify that valve moves freely. If valve is functioning correctly, go to next step.
Replace valve if it fails testing.
4.Check Vacuum Diaphragm Rod

With modulator removed, measure depth of vacuum throttle valve (dimension "N"). See Fig. 5
. Measure length of throttle control valve
rod. Ensure correct length rod is installed. Refer to the THROTTLE VALVE ROD DIMENSION CHART
. If correct rod is installed
in transaxle, inspect operation of vacuum throttle valve in valve body. Install correct rod length as needed.
THROTTLE VALVE ROD DIMENSION CHART

Fig. 5: Measuring Vacuum Throttle Valve Depth

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
STALL TEST
Testing Precautions
When testing, DO NOT hold throttle open longer than five (5) seconds. Shift to "N" and allow engine to idle for at least two (2) minutes
between tests to cool transaxle. If engine speed exceeds specification, release accelerator immediately as clutch or band slippage is indicated.
"N" Dimension: In. (mm)Rod Length: In. (mm)
1.0 (25.4)1.16 (29.5)
1.0-1.02 (25.4-25.9)1.18 (30.0)
1.02-1.04 (25.9-26.4)1.20 (30.5)
1.04-1.06 (25.9-26.4)1.22 (31.0)
1.06-1.08 (26.9-27.4)1.24 (31.5)
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LINE PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS (ASPIRE)
LINE PRESSURE TEST SPECIFICATIONS (ALL EXCEPT ASPIRE)
LINE PRESSURE CUT-BACK TEST
1. Connect oil pressure gauges to line pressure and governor pressure ports. See Fig. 6
. Position gauges so they can be seen from driver's
seat.
2. Connect a hand-held vacuum pump to vacuum modulator. See Fig. 6
. Position vacuum pump so it can be operated from driver's seat.
With shift lever in "D", gradually increase engine RPM and observe pressure gauge readings. Record results.
3. With shift lever in "D", gradually increase engine RPM, and apply 8 in. Hg to vacuum modulator. When line pressure reading suddenly
decreases, observe the governor pressure gauge. Refer to LINE PRESSURE CUT
-BACK TEST SPECIFICATIONS .
4. If governor pressure gauge readings are not within specifications, ensure rod in vacuum modulator is installed. If a rod is installed, rod
length may be incorrect or vacuum throttle valve is sticking. See VACUUM THROTTLE VALVE DIAPHRAGM (MODULATOR)

under TESTING.
LINE PRESSURE CUT-BACK TEST SPECIFICATIONS
GOVERNOR PRESSURE TEST
1. Attach oil pressure gauge to governor pressure check port. See Fig. 6
. Position gauge so that it may be seen from driver's seat. Shift
transaxle into "D" and road test vehicle.
2. Accelerate vehicle smoothly and record governor pressure readings at 20, 35 and 55 MPH. See GOVERNOR PRESSURE
SPECIFICATIONS . If pressure gauge readings are not within specifications, check for fluid leakage in line pressure hydraulic circuit
and/or governor pressure hydraulic circuit. Also check for a faulty governor.
GOVERNOR PRESSURE SPECIFICATIONS
REMOVAL & INSTALLATION
See the appropriate TRANSMISSION REMOVAL & INSTALLATION - A/T article in this section. Refer to the following menu:
TORQUE CONVERTER
The torque converter is a sealed unit and cannot be serviced. Check for cracked or worn ring in seal area. Measure bushing in converter boss.
If I.D. is larger than 2.090" (53.08 mm) on Aspire, 1.302" (33.075 mm) on Festiva and Tracer, replace torque converter. If metal particles are
found in ATF, replace torque converter. To clean torque converter, flush with solvent, drain and flush with ATF and drain ATF.
TRANSAXLE DISASSEMBLY
1. Remove torque converter. Attach transaxle to appropriate holding fixture. Remove park/neutral switch, kickdown solenoid and vacuum
modulator with rod. Remove oil dipstick and tube. Remove speedometer driven gear retaining bolt and lift out gear assembly. Remove
oil pump drive shaft and turbine shaft.
2. Remove oil pan. Remove valve body. DO NOT lose check ball and spring. Position transaxle with oil pump facing downward. With
flat-blade screwdriver inserted in wide slot between front clutch drum and sun shell, pry down on front clutch drum. Do this seve r a l
times as you rotate assembly 2 complete revolutions.
3. Using a feeler gauge, measure front clutch drum end play. See Fig. 7
. Check clearance of small slot between front clutch drum tabs and
Applicationpsi (kg/cm2 )
At Idle
"D"46-54 (3.2-3.8)
"2 "150-166 (10.5-11.7)
"R"76-95 (5.3-6.7)
At Stall Speed
"D"141-157 (9.9-11.0)
"2 "150-166 (10.5-11.7)
"R"251-262 (17.6-18.4)
Applicationpsi (kg/cm2 )
At Idle
"D"43-57 (3.0-4.0)
"2 "114-171 (8.0-12.0)
"R"57-110 (4.0-7.0)
At Stall Speed
"D"128-156 (9.0-11.0)
"2 "114-171 (8.0-12.0)
"R"228-270 (16.0-19.0)
Vacuum Pump ReadingGovernor Pressure psi (kg/cm2 )
0 in. Hg (Atmosphere)14-23 (.98-1.6)
8 in. Hg6-14 (.42-.98)
Applicationpsi (kg/cm2 )
Aspire & Festiva
20 MPH13-21 (.9-1.5)
35 MPH25-35 (1.8-2.5)
55 MPH58-70 (4.0-4.8)
Page 10 of 26 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - 1988-94 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Ford ATX Overhaul
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Fig. 10: Identifying Transaxle Oil Passages
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Fig. 11: Torque Converter Housing Components

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
COMPONENT DISASSEMBLY & REASSEMBLY
BAND SERVO
Inspection
Remove seal rings and inspect piston for damaged or worn piston. Ensure spring free length is 1.890" (48.00 mm). If less than specified,
replace spring. Install new seal rings on piston and servo retainer.
DIFFERENTIAL
Disassembly
1. Remove ring gear retaining bolts and ring gear. Using hammer and pin punch, drive out roll pin. See Fig. 12. Push out pinion gear shaft.
Remove pinion and side gears, with washers, from differential housing.
2. Using appropriate puller, remove side bearings from differential housing. DO NOT remove speedometer drive gear unless damaged.
Removal will damage speedometer drive gear.
Inspection
Check all gears for signs of excessive wear or damage. Check differential gear case for cracks or other damage. Replace as needed.
Reassembly
1. Reverse removal procedure to reassemble. Measure side gear and pinion gear backlash by inserting drive shafts into differential side
gears and supporting shafts in "V" blocks. Position dial indicator with plunger resting on teeth of pinion gear. See Fig. 13
. Measure
backlash. Repeat procedure with plunger on other pinion gear.
2. Backlash readings should be less than .004" (.10 mm). If backlash is not within specification, adjust backlash by changing thrust
washers. Thrust washers are available in .079" (2.00 mm), .083" (2.10 mm) and .087" (2.20 mm) thicknesses. Use thrust washers of t h e
same thickness on both sides whenever possible.
Page 13 of 26 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - 1988-94 AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Ford ATX Overhaul
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