Extreme Maintenance for
the Merkur Scorpio

 

For the fanatical, adventuresome, committed, budget-conscious, or just desperate Scorpio owner/mechanic, here are a few procedures for keeping everything functional, including some items not covered in the excellent factory service manual. Some are no-brainers, and some are true meditations in patience and skill.

I've owned at least one Scorpio since 2000. This collection of fixes chronicles my effort in keeping them running as safely and economically as possible.

Ken Kizer
Disclaimer: the assumption here is that you have some skills in automobile work. Some of these repairs involve a fairly high degree of expertise and/or fabrication and can be dangerous if you don't know what you're doing, such as air conditioning system evacuation and recharging or anti-lock brake systems. Don't attempt them if you aren't familiar with the techniques. You have been warned! Merkur Club Home Page
Heating and Cooling:
Alternative a/c compressor
Alternative all-metal heater core
Blower motor replacement
Dash vent door motor repairs
No or low heat
Heater core dimensions

Radiator
Electric Engine Fan
Revised
24Aug08
14Apr07
18Aug07
14Apr07
14Apr07
19Dec06
14Apr07
22Apr10

Electrical:
Gauges

Odometer repair
VSS (Variable speed sensor for speedo)

Yellow headlamp lenses
Headlight shell retainers
Melting fuse box
Melting rear defog switch
Wiring Harness Terminal Connector Tools
Starter failure

 
03Aug11
03Aug11
14Apr07
14Apr07
07May08
29Jul08
18Dec06
02Jun09
25Mar14

Motor:
Permanent (inexpensive) fix for leaky valve covers
Alternative motor mounts
Alternative fan clutches
Easy valve adjustment
Oil quality and oil filters
 
14Apr07
14Apr07
21Nov06
14Apr07
04Jul10
Driveline:
Transmission cooler using an Aerostar unit
Transmission "hunts" for a gear at about 45 mph
 
25Mar14
14Apr07

Body:
Stop water leaks in the rear floor
Front Door vent shades

Sunroof rattle repair
Hood lift supports for the 88 model

 
21Nov06
14Apr07

13Feb08
30Apr08

Misc:
Differences between 88 and 89 models
Some part numbers
Cup holder for monster size beverages
Pictures and magazine articles
Keys: Order new ones or cut your own Tibbe blanks
Documentation suggestions
Special tools
Breakout box, home-made
Luxurious Scorpio furniture

 
16Dec08
05May07
14Apr07
31Jul08
23Jun12
05May07
09Dec09
25Mar09

14Apr07


25Mar14