Engine - Knock at Low Speeds: Overview
87ford22 September 4, 1987Number: 0904198788
All Ford and Lincoln Mercury Dealers
Subject: Engine Knock Condition During Vehicle Warranty - 1987/88 Grand Marquis, Crown Victoria, Mark VII, Continental, Thunderbird, Cougar, Lincoln Town Car - Equipped with a 5.0L SEFI Base Engine
Important Service Information! Please Forward To Your Service Manager Immediately!
Some 1987/88 Grand Marquis, Crown Victoria, Mark VII, Continental, Thunderbird, Cougar and Lincoln Town Cars equipped with, a 5.0L base engine that was assembled prior to September 4, 1987, may experience an uncharacteristic engine knock noise. The knock is not evident on cold start, but may become apparent as the engine begins to warm up, and remains after the engine reaches normal operating temperature. It is most audible at engine speeds between 800-1500 RPM in neutral and in gear. The concern is identified immediately upon vehicle delivery, at the very latest, during the first two thousand miles. Durability of the engine is not affected.
If the knock condition is verified after conducting the diagnostic procedure, the engine assembly should be replaced rather than attempting normal service repairs. This will assure complete customer satisfaction to the customer upon the service visit. Vehicles are to be serviced within the guidelines of the new vehicle warranty. A $100.00 deductible is required for vehicles beyond 12/12 for powertrain coverage.
Replacement engines can be obtained by calling the Cleveland Engine Plant toll free phone number. Diagnostic and Warranty procedures are included in Attachment I.
Call your Ford Parts and Service District Office if any difficulties are encountered with this program.
Please forward this information to your Service Manager immediately.