Introduction

General information This Chapter is designed to help the home mechanic maintain his/her vehicle for safety, economy, long life and peak performance.

The Chapter contains a master maintenance schedule, followed by Sections dealing specifically with each task on the schedule. Visual checks, adjustments, component renewal and other helpful items are included. Refer to the accompanying illustrations of the engine compartment and the underside of the vehicle for the locations of the various components.

Servicing of your vehicle in accordance with the mileage/time maintenance schedule and the following Sections will provide a planned maintenance program, which should result in a long and reliable service life. This is a comprehensive plan, so maintaining some items but not others at the specified service intervals will not produce the same results.

As you service your vehicle, you will discover that many of the procedures can - and should - be grouped together because of the particular procedure being performed, or because of the close proximity of two otherwise unrelated components to one another. For example, if the vehicle is raised for any reason, the exhaust can be inspected at the same time as the suspension and steering components.

The first step in this maintenance program is to prepare yourself before the actual work begins. Read through all the Sections relevant to the work to be carried out, then make a list and gather together all the parts and tools required. If a problem is encountered, seek advice from a parts specialist, or a dealer service department.

    See also:

    Camshaft and cam followers - removal, inspection and refitting
    Note: A new camshaft oil seal and new rocker arm securing nuts should be used when refitting. 1.8 litre (R2A type) Removal 1 Remove the cylinder head. 2 Unscrew the securing bolts and remove the ...

    General information
    All models utilise a light alloy inlet manifold which on carburettor models is coolant heated to improve the atomisation of the fuel/air mixture. The exhaust manifold is of cast iron construction ...

    Sump - removal and refitting
    Note: New gaskets and sealing strips must be used on refitting. Removal 1 Disconnect the battery negative lead and drain the engine oil (see Chapter 1). 2 Refer to Chapter 5, Part A and remove th ...