Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Piston Inspection

Special Tool(s)

Scraper, Piston Ring Groove 303-D033 (D81L-6002-D) or equivalent

CAUTION: Do not use a caustic cleaning solution or a wire brush to clean the pistons or damage can occur.

1. Clean and inspect the (1) ring lands, (2) skirts, (3) pin bosses, and the (4) tops of the pistons. If wear marks, scores or glazing is found on the piston skirt, check for a bent or twisted connecting rod.

Piston Inspection

2. Use the Piston Ring Groove Scraper to clean the piston ring grooves.

  • Make sure the oil ring holes are clean.

Piston Inspection

    Crankshaft - Connecting Rod Journal Taper, Out of Round
    1. Measure the crankshaft connecting rod journal diameters in two directions perpendicular to one another at each end of the connecting rod journal. The difference in the measurements from one e ...

    Piston - Pin to Bore Diameter
    1. WARNING: Cover the end of the pin bore with a hand or shop rag when removing the retainer ring, since it has a tendency to spring out. Wear eye protection. NOTE: Piston and piston pins are a matc ...

    Other materials:

    Camshaft Roller Follower
    Special Tool(s) Compressor, Valve Spring (Intake) 303-452 (T93P-6565-AR) Compressor, Valve Spring (Exhaust) 303-567 (T97P-6565-AH) Removal 1. Remove the valve cover. For additional information, refer to Valve Cover LH or Valv ...

    Installation
    NOTE: Do not use a fiber disc to clean the surfaces. Fibers from the disc can get into the oil pan and oil and clog the oil bypass valve. 1. Clean and inspect the cylinder head for flatness. 2. Install a new head gasket on the cylinder block with the sm ...

    Auxiliary Power Points
    WARNING: Do not plug optional electrical accessories into the cigarette lighter socket (if equipped). Improper use of the lighter can cause damage not covered by your warranty, and can result in fire or serious injury. Note: If used when the engine is not runn ...