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:

    Connecting Rod - Bushing Diameter
    1. Measure the inner diameter of the connecting rod bushing, if equipped. Verify the diameter is within specification. Refer to the appropriate section in Group for the procedure. If out of specification, install new components as necessary. Refer ...

    Transmission fluid check
    Checking Automatic Transmission Fluid Note: Transmission fluid should be checked and, if required, added by an authorized dealer. The automatic transmission does not have a transmission fluid dipstick. See your Scheduled Maintenance Information for scheduled ...

    Installation
    1. Position the fuel charging wiring in the vehicle and attach to the rear of the intake manifold. 2. NOTE: Make sure the locking clips are fully engaged into the bracket. Reposition the accelerator cable and the speed control cable (if equipped) and ...