
AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT
AIR CONDITIONING TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC AIR CONDITIONING TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
HEATER SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC HEATER SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Broken lead or loose soldered connectionsRepair wire or wire
connections as necessary
Solenoid Plunger Vibrates When Switch is Engaged
Weak batteryCharge or replace battery as
necessary
Solenoid contacts corrodedClean contacts or replace
solenoid
Faulty wiringCheck all wiring leading to
solenoid
Broken connections inside switch coverRepair connections or replace
solenoid
Open hold-in wiresolenoid
Low Current Draw
Worn brushes or weak brush springsReplace brushes or brush
springs as necessary
High Pitched Whine During Cranking Before Engine Fires but Engine Fires and Cranks Normally
Distance too great between starter pinion and flywheelAlign starter or check that
correct starter and flywheel are
being used
High Pitched Whine After Engine Fires With Key released. Engine Fires and Cranks Normally
Distance too small between starter pinion and flywheelFlywheel runout contributes to
the intermittent nature
WARNING:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. T he purpose of this T rouble Shooting inform ation is to provide a list
of com m on causes to problem sym ptom s. For m odel-specific T rouble Shooting, refer to SUBJECT ,
DIAGNOST IC, or T EST ING articles available in the section(s) you are accessing.
CONDITIONPOSSIBLE CAUSE
Compressor Not WorkingCompressor clutch circuit open.
.....Compressor clutch coil inoperative.
.....Poor clutch ground connection.
.....Fan belts loose.
.....Thermostatic switch inoperative.
.....Thermostatic switch not adjusted.
.....Ambient temperature switch open.
.....Superheat fuse blown.
Excessive Noise or VibrationMissing or loose mounting bolts.
.....Bad idler pulley bearings.
.....Fan belts not tightened correctly.
.....Compressor clutch contacting body.
.....Excessive system pressure.
.....Compressor oil level low.
.....Damaged clutch bearings.
.....Damaged reed valves.
.....Damaged compressor.
In su fficien t o r No Co o l in g; Co mp resso r
WorkingExpansion valve inoperative.
.....Heater control valve stuck open.
.....Low system pressure.
.....Blocked condenser fins.
.....Blocked evaporator fins.
.....Vacuum system leak.
.....Vacuum motors inoperative.
.....Control cables improperly adjusted.
.....Restricted air inlet.
.....Mode doors binding.
.....Blower motor inoperative.
.....Temperature above system capacity.
NOTE:This is GENERAL inform ation. This article is not intended to be specific to any unique situation or
individual vehicle configuration. T he purpose of this T rouble Shooting inform ation is to provide a list
of com m on causes to problem sym ptom s. For m odel-specific T rouble Shooting, refer to DIAGNOST IC,
or T EST ING articles available in the section(s) you are accessing.
Page 6 of 36 MITCHELL 1 ARTICLE - GENERAL INFORMATION Trouble Shooting - Basic Procedures
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GENERAL INFORMATION
Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) Warning - Basic Inform ation
* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
INTRODUCTION
All Electrostatic Discharge (ESD) sensitive components contain solid state circuits (transistors, diodes, semiconductors) that may become
damaged when contacted with an electrostatic charge. The following information applies to all ESD sensitive devices. The ESD symbol shown
in Fig. Fig. 1
may be used on schematics to indicate which components are ESD sensitive. See Fig. 1. Although different manufactures may
display different symbols to represent ESD sensitive devices, the handling and measuring precautions and procedures are the same.
Fig. 1: Sample ESD Symbol
HANDLING STATIC-SENSITIVE CIRCUITS/DEVICES
When handling an electronic part that is ESD sensitive, the technician should follow these guidelines to reduce any possible electrostatic
charge build-up on the technician's body and the electronic part.
1. Always touch a known good ground source before handling the part. This should be repeated while handling the part and more
frequently after sitting down from a standing position, sliding across the seat or walking a distance.
2. Avoid touching electrical terminals of the part, unless instructed by a diagnostic procedure.
3. DO NOT open the package of a new part until it is time to install the part.
4. Before removing the part from its package, ground the package to a known good ground source.
CHECKING STATIC-SENSITIVE CIRCUITS/DEVICES
1. Solid State circuits in electronic devices are shown greatly simplified in schematics. See Fig. 2. Due to the simplification of the NOTE:T his article is intended for general inform ation purposes only. Contents are generic in nature and all
inform ation m ay or m ay not apply to all vehicles.
NOTE:T his article is intended for general inform ation purposes only. Contents are generic in nature and all
inform ation m ay or m ay not apply to all vehicles.
NOTE:T his article is intended for general inform ation purposes only. Contents are generic in nature and all
inform ation m ay or m ay not apply to all vehicles.
NOTE:T his article is intended for general inform ation purposes only. Contents are generic in nature and all
inform ation m ay or m ay not apply to all vehicles.
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electronic devices on the schematic, resistance measurements could be misleading or could lead to an electrostatic discharge. Always
follow the recommended diagnostic procedure.
Fig. 2: Sample Schematic Showing Typical ESD Sensitive Device
2. Only measure resistance at the terminals of the devices when instructed by the recommended diagnostic procedure.
3. When using a voltmeter, be sure to connect the ground lead first.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00130228
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SCREW TYPE SEAL CANS
Ensure can tap is fully closed. Screw refrigerant can into can tap fitting until tight. This will pierce the can. Connect tap to center hose on
manifold gauge set. DO NOT open tap until ready to dispense R-12 into system.
CONNECTING LINES & FITTINGS
1. A new "O" ring should be used in all instances when connecting lines and fittings (dip "O" ring in clean refrigeration oil and make
certain it is not twisted during installation). Always use two wrenches to avoid twisting or distorting lines and fittings, tighten coupling
nuts securely.
2. Ford spring-coupling fittings require a special coupling tool (Motorcraft YT-1056) to open or close. Use the following procedure to
connect or disconnect the spring-coupling fitting.
Ford Spring-Coupling Fitting
1. Discharge system using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment. Place proper end of tool over refrigerant line. Tool fits both
3/8" and 1/2" fittings. Push tool into fitting cage to release spring inside. Pull lines apart and remove tool.
2. Before connecting, check internal spring for damage. If necessary, pry spring out and replace it. Clean fittings and install new "O" rings.
Fig. 1: Assembling Ford Spring
-Coupling Fitting
PLACING SYSTEM IN OPERATION
After component replacement and/or system servicing has been completed and all connections have been made, proceed as follows:
1. Evacuate the system using a vacuum pump.
2. Charge the system with new R-12 (refrigerant) according to each individual vehicle as outlined in the GENERAL SERVICING article.
Also see Refrigerant Capacity in this Section.
3. Leak test the system, with particular attention to all new connections and components.
4. Make a performance test of the system. Never assume that a recharging has automatically corrected a problem.
COMPRESSOR REMOVAL INFORMATION - ISOLATION METHOD
On systems which have compressors equipped with stem-type service valves (Tecumseh), it is possible to isolate the compressor for removal.
Isolating
Turn both high and low pressure manual valves to extreme clockwise (front seat) position. Loosen cap on high pressure manual valve
connection to compressor and allow gas to escape until compressor is relieved of pressure.
COMPRESSOR REMOVAL INFORMATION-DISCHARGE METHOD
This procedure is to be used on vehicles which have compressor equipped with Schrader service valves. In these cases, the compressor cannot
be isolated and the system must be discharged, using approved refrigerant recovery/recycling equipment, prior to compressor removal. WARNING:DO NOT open high side hand valve while air conditioning system is in operation. T his high pressure
could rupture can or fitting at safety can valve, resulting in dam age and personal injury.
CAUT ION: Use ONLY "O" rings designed for these Ford fittings (Motorcraft YF-982). Norm al refrigerant "O" rings
will NOT seal.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00039191
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Fig. 6: Identification Label Locations
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
SERVICE LABOR TIMES
WHEEL & TIRE SPECIFICATIONS
TIRE INFLATION
Tire inflation pressure is listed on a decal attached to right door pillar.
WHEEL TIGHTENING
Tighten wheel lug bolts to 65-87 ft. lbs. (88-118 N.m). If wheels are equipped with locking type lug nuts, ALWAYS position the "keyed" nut
opposite the valve stem.
BATTERY SPECIFICATIONS
All 1988-92 models use a BX-35 battery. The 1993 Festiva uses a 50D 20L standard battery.
CAUTIONS & WARNINGS
BATTERY WARNING
REPLACING BLOWN FUSES
NOTE:For 1990 and newer vehicles, labor tim es are provided, where available, within appropriate SERVICE
INT ERVAL table in SCHEDULED SERVICES article.
CAUT ION: When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with com puters m ay lose m em ory data. When battery
power is restored, driveability problem s m ay exist on som e vehicles. T hese vehicles m ay require a
relearn procedure. See COMPUT ER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in the GENERAL INFORMAT ION
section.
WARNING:When battery is disconnected, vehicles equipped with com puters m ay lose m em ory data. When battery
power is restored, driveability problem s m ay exist on som e vehicles. T hese vehicles m ay require a
relearn procedure. See COMPUT ER RELEARN PROCEDURES article in GENERAL INFORMAT ION
section.
CAUT ION: Before replacing a blown fuse, rem ove ignition key, turn off all lights and accessories to avoid
dam aging the electrical system . Be sure to use fuse with the correct indicated am perage rating. T he use
of an incorrect am perage rating fuse m ay result in a dangerous electrical system overload.
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BRAKE PAD WEAR INDICATOR
CATALYTIC CONVERTER
COOLANT (PROPYLENE-GLYCOL FORMULATIONS)
ELECTROSTATIC DISCHARGE SENSITIVE (ESD) PARTS
ENGINE OIL
FUEL PUMP SHUTOFF SWITCH
This switch stops flow of fuel to engine after a collision. The impact does not have to be great for switch to be triggered. Switch must be reset
after collision. Switch is located under left rear speaker in luggage compartment. Press button to reset switch.
FUEL SYSTEM SERVICE
HALOGEN BULBS
PASSIVE RESTRAINTS
RADIATOR CAP
RADIATOR FAN
WARRANTY INFORMATION
BASIC NEW CAR LIMITED WARRANTY
All parts of the vehicle, except tires, are covered against defects in factory-supplied materials and workmanship for 12 months or 12,000 miles, CAUT ION: Indicator will cause a squealing or scraping noise, warning that brake pads need replacem ent.
CAUT ION: Continued operation of vehicle with a severe m alfunction could cause converter to overheat, resulting
in possible dam age to converter and vehicle.
CAUT ION: T o avoid possible dam age to vehicle use only ethylene-glycol based coolants with a m ixture ratio from
44-68% anti-freeze. DO NOT use 100% anti-freeze as it will cause the form ation of cooling system
deposits. T his results in coolant tem peratures of over 300° F (149°C) which can m elt plastics. 100% anti-
freeze has a freeze point of only -8° F (-22°C).
CAUT ION: Propylene-Glycol Mixtures has a sm aller tem perature range than Ethylene-Glycol. T he tem perature
range (freeze-boil) of a 50/50 Anti-Freeze/Water Mix is as follows: Propylene-Glycol -26° F (-32°C) - 257° F
(125°C) Ethylene-Glycol -35° F (-37°C) - 263° F (128°C)
CAUT ION: Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol Mixtures can cause the destabilization of various corrosion inhibitors.
Also Propylene-Glycol/Ethylene-Glycol has a different specific gravity than Ethylene-Glycol coolant,
which will result in inaccurate freeze point calculations.
WARNING:Many solid state electrical com ponents can be dam aged by static electricity (ESD). Som e will display a
warning label, but m any will not. Discharge personal static electricity by touching a m etal ground point
on the vehicle prior to servicing any ESD sensitive com ponent.
CAUT ION: Never use non-detergent or straight m ineral oil.
WARNING:Relieve fuel system pressure prior to servicing any fuel system com ponent (fuel injection m odels).
WARNING:Halogen bulbs contain pressurized gas which m ay explode if overheated. DO NOT touch glass portion
of bulb with bare hands. Eye protection should be worn when handling or working around halogen
bulbs.
CAUT ION: Before operating vehicle, securely fasten passive shoulder restraints to the em ergency release buckles.
T he buckle fits in only one way. Ensure to position it properly.
CAUT ION: Always disconnect the fan m otor when working near the radiator fan. T he fan is tem perature controlled
and could start at any tim e even when the ignition key is in the OFF position. DO NOT loosen or rem ove
radiator cap when cooling system is hot.
WARNING:Keep hands away from radiator fan. Fan is controlled by a therm ostatic switch which m ay com e on or
run for up to 15 m inutes even after engine is turned off.
CAUT ION: Due to the different warranties offered in various regions and the variety of after-m arket extended
warranties available, please refer to the warranty package that cam e with the vehicle to verify all
warranty options.
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Fig. 7: Fuse Panel Identification
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Fuse Identification
1 - 15 Amp License Plate Light, Rear Side Marker Light, Front Parking Lights, Cluster and Tail Lights
2 - 15 Amp Horn, Brakelights, High-Mount Brakelight
3 - 15 Amp (1988-89) Safety Belt Warning, Turn & Hazard Warning Flasher Lights, Radio, Trunk Light, Ignition Key Reminder Buzzer
15 Amp (1990-93) Safety Belt Warning, Turn & Hazard Warning Flasher Lights, Ignition Key Reminder Buzzer
4 - 15 Amp Audio System, Cigarette Lighter, Remote Control Mirror
5 - 15 Amp Rear Wiper/Washer, Daytime Running Light System (Canada)
6 - 15 Amp Heater & Air Conditioner
7 - 20 Amp Heater & Air Conditioner, Cooling Fan System
8 - 10 Amp (1988-89) Interior Courtesy Lights
10 Amp (1990-93) R a d io , In t e r io r C o u r t e sy Ligh t s, Lu gga ge C o mp a r t me n t Ligh t
9 - 15 Amp (1988-89) Front Wiper/Washer
15 Amp (1990-93) Front Wiper/Washer, Shift-Lock System (ATX), Engine Control System
10 - 10 Amp Charging System, Emission Control System
11 - 10 Amp (1988-90) Safety Belt Warning, Turn & Hazard Warning Flasher Lights, Back-Up Lights, Instrument Cluster, Warning
Lights,
10 Amp (1991-93) Safety Belt Warning, Turn & Hazard Warning Flasher Lights, Back-Up Lights, Instrument Cluster, Warning Lights,
Shift-Lock System
12 - 15 Amp Rear Window Defroster
13 - Not Used (1988-89) Spare
30 Amp (1990-93) Passive Restraint System (Automatic Seat Belt)
In-Line Fuse Identification
15 Amp (1990-93) Condenser Fan Motor (A/T Models Only)
10 Amp (1990-93) A/C System (located on left side of heater case)
FUSIBLE LINK BLOCK IDENTIFICATION
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SERVICE INDICATOR & WARNING LIGHTS
1988-92 MAINT ENANCE Ford Motor Co. Service Indicator & Warning Lights
SERVICE INDICATOR & WARNING LIGHTS
Fig. 1: Identifying Dash Gauges & W arning Lights
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT
If functioning properly, the Check Engine warning light comes on when ignition switch is in the ON position and goes out after engine is
started. If light fails to glow with ignition on or remains on when engine is running, a malfunction exists in the electronic engine control
system. System needs to be checked and serviced.
CHARGING SYSTEM WARNING LIGHT
Light comes on when ignition switch is in the ON or START position and goes out after engine is started and alternator is charged. Light may
also glow when there is a heavy electrical load on the system. If light remains on after reducing electrical load, check electrical system.
OIL PRESSURE WARNING LIGHT
Light should come on briefly and go out after engine is started. If light remains on with engine running, oil pressure is low. Check oil level.
ENGINE COOLANT TEMPERATURE GAUGE
Gauge should register within the NORMAL band under regular operating conditions. If gauge rises into the HOT range, stop engine, allow it to
cool, and then check coolant level.
BRAKE WARNING LIGHT
The Brake light indicates one of 2 conditions: parking brake is engaged, or malfunction exists in the dual braking system. If functioning
properly, light should come on briefly with ignition switch in the ON position and then go out after engine is started and parking brake is
released. If light remains on, a malfunction is indicated. Service brake system.
Copyr ight 2009 Mitchell Repair Information Company, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Article GUID: A00062872
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