Safety Warning
DIY auto repair can cause serious injury, fire, or vehicle damage. These guides are for informational purposes only. Always follow OEM torque specs, wear PPE, and consult a certified mechanic if you are unsure. You are solely responsible for your safety.
1986 Ford Aerostar V6-183 3.0LFACTORY OEM SERVICE PROCEDURE
Ignition Control Module: Service and Repair
Open Bowl Distributor:
1. Remove distributor cap and adapter. Position cap and wires aside.
2. Disconnect TFI wiring.
3. Remove distributor from engine using tool T82L-12270-A or equivalent to remove security-type hold-down bolt, if equipped.
4. Place distributor on workbench and remove 2 TFI module screws, Fig. 2.
5. Pull right side of module down distributor mounting flange and then back up to disengage module terminals from connector in distributor base. Module may then be pulled toward flange and away from distributor. Do not attempt to lift module from mounting surface before moving entire TFI module toward distributor flange, as pins at distributor/module connector will break otherwise.
6. Coat metal base plate of TFI ignition module with 1/32 inch thick layer of silicone grease D7AZ-19A331-A, or equivalent.
7. Place TFI module on distributor base mounting flange. Carefully position TFI module assembly toward distributor bowl and securely engage 3 distributor connector pins.
8. Install 2 TFI module mounting screws and torque to 9---35 inch lbs.
9. Install distributor on engine.
10. Install distributor cap and adapter.
11. Connect TFI wiring.
12. Check and, if necessary adjust engine timing according to decal.
Factory Service Tools
Use the Manual With the Right Hardware
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When to See a Mechanic
Stop DIY work and contact a certified mechanic immediately if any of the following apply:
- • You smell fuel, burning insulation, or see smoke.
- • Brakes feel soft, pull hard to one side, or make grinding noises.
- • The engine overheats, stalls repeatedly, or misfires under load.
- • You are missing required tools, torque specs, or safe lifting equipment.
- • You are not confident in the next step or safety outcome.
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