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:

    Component Tests
    Drive Belt Noise/Flutter Drive belt chirp occurs due to pulley misalignment or excessive pulley runout. It can be the result of a damaged pulley or an incorrectly aligned pulley. To correct, determine the area where the noise comes from. Check each of the p ...

    Installation
    All vehicles 1. Using the special tools, install the crankshaft rear oil seal. Lubricate the oil seal using clean engine oil. 2. Using the special tool, install the crankshaft oil slinger. Manual transmission vehicles 3. Install the flywheel. For additi ...

    Changing the vehicle battery
    WARNING: Batteries normally produce explosive gases which can cause personal injury. Therefore, do not allow flames, sparks or lighted substances to come near the battery. When working near the battery, always shield your face and protect your eyes. Always pro ...