Ford Mustang (1999-2004) Service Manual: Tracing Powder

Tracing powder is used to check both the uniformity of contact and the tension of a seal against its sealing surface. These tests are usually done when a suspected air leak/noise appears to originate from the seal area or during the alignment and adjustment of a component to a weatherstrip. Tracing powder can be ordered from Crest Industries as ATR Leak Trace. Carry out the tracing powder test as follows:

Tracing Powder

a. Clean the weatherstrip.

b. Spray the tracing powder on the mating surface only.

c. Close the door completely. Do not slam the door.

d. Open the door. An imprint is made where the weatherstrip contacted the mating surface seal.

Gaps or a faint imprint will show where there is poor contact with the weatherstrip.

Tracing Powder

    Vibrate Software
    Vibrate Software (Rotunda tool number 215-00003) is a diagnostic aid which will assist in pinpointing the source of unacceptable vibrations. The engine's crankshaft is the point of reference for vib ...

    Index Card
    Place an index card or a piece of paper between the weatherstrip and the sealing surface, then close the door. Slowly withdraw the index card or paper after the door is closed and check the amount o ...

    Other materials:

    Connecting Rod - Bearing Journal Clearance
    Special Tool(s) Plastigage 303-D031 (D81L-6002-B) or equivalent NOTE: The crankshaft connecting rod journals must be within specifications to check the connecting rod bearing journal clearance. 1. Remove the connecting rod bearing cap. 2. ...

    Rear Spoiler
    Removal and Installation 1. Open the luggage compartment lid. 2. Disconnect the high mounted stoplamp electrical connector. 3. Remove the screws and the nuts. 4. CAUTION: Use care not damge the pin-type retainers and pin-type retainer seals during re ...

    Axle Housing Bushing
    Special Tool(s) Axle Suspension Bushing Set 204-S030 (T78P-5638-A) Removal CAUTION: Suspension fasteners are critical parts because they affect performance of vital components and systems and their failure can result in major service expense. ...