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 Journal - Clearance, Plastigage Method
    Special Tool(s) Plastigage 303-D031 (D81L-6002-B) or equivalent NOTE: The camshaft journals must meet specifications before checking camshaft journal clearance. 1. Remove the camshaft bearing cap and lay Plastigage across the surface. Refer ...

    Digital Transmission Range (TR) Sensor
    Special Tool(s) Alignment Gauge, TR Sensor 307-351 (T97L-70010-A) Removal 1. Disconnect the battery ground cable. For additional information, refer to Section. 2. Raise and support the vehicle. For additional information, refer to Sectio ...

    Actuator - Speed Control Servo
    1. CAUTION: Electronic modules are sensitive to static electrical charges. If exposed to these charges, damage may result. Disconnect the battery ground cable. 2. Remove the LH wheel and tire; refer to Section. 3. Position aside the LH front splash shie ...