MK1 Capri. Need some advice please

**Kingsley** · 02-11-2007, 07:45 PM

I've got a MK1 Capri that will in the next few months will be getting a rebuild. Panel and paint are not a problem, it's my trade, and time isn't a factor either.
So far I've managed to source a couple of manuals, each as useless as the other when it come to the black art of wiring. I'm after a good wiring diagram for this model in both GT and standard form. Any suggestions?
Are ther any decent books on Capri's ? In particular, setting up the suspension for amatuer motorsport, and any other tricks former or current racers used to employ back in the 70's.
Finally, what is totally involved in a V8 conversion? The car currently runs a Pinto 4, which isn't too bad, but I'm curious to what's involved to update to a Windsor. I probably won't go the V8 route, but I'd like to know anyway. Thanks guy's and girls.

whooligan · 03-11-2007, 09:56 AM

Obviously, your first Capri??? Welcome to the nightmare.
Starting with the electrics....They're crap and if you can afford to have the whole loom replaced, do it. I can supply with a pdf of the electrical diagram from the workshop manual, but it ain't too flash. Send me an email at maxrnb70@hotmail.com
As for V8 conversions, it basically down to gutting it and starting from scratch. You can buy chassis kits, but most of them don't fit to well, depending on how many stacks your car has had over the years....most Capris have had at least one front-ender as the brakes were/are crap.
Suspension wise, they are pretty simple, so any improvement (including renewing whats there) makes a massive improvement. All the adjustable gear is still available from Bilstein/Koni/etc as its mostly the same as Escorts. You can get 4 link kits from the UK, but freight usually puts it out of most people's budget....Like I say, they are pretty simple cars and most specialist places can sort you out with the right gear.
Contact your local Capri Club. I'm sure there is some guru in just about every area. We are lucky enough to have engineers, suspension specialist, engine builders and a dedicated parts officer in out club (CCC of Vic) so there's always some expert on hand to nut out your problem.
Check out our website

www.capricarclub.org.au

**Kingsley** · 03-11-2007, 10:41 AM

Thanks whooligan! Yep first Capri!!!. So I'm just beginning to appreciate the marvel of British engineering!!!
I'm fairly convinced that keeping the Pinto may be the way to go for now. I also believe the cross member would have to be changed for a V6 too. Is that correct?

whooligan · 04-11-2007, 07:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kingy351

Thanks whooligan! Yep first Capri!!!. So I'm just beginning to appreciate the marvel of British engineering!!!
I'm fairly convinced that keeping the Pinto may be the way to go for now. I also believe the cross member would have to be changed for a V6 too. Is that correct?

On a purely budget point of view - Pinto is always the way to go. You can get parts, you can register them, they go like stink and they still handle. Changing the crossmember is the least of the worries with a V8 conversion. Personally, I think its a waste of a good crossmember that good be used to preserve a genuine V6 car.

Brock071 · 04-11-2007, 04:14 PM

Kingy, the NSW Club can be found at:

www.capricarclubnsw.org.au

They will be invaluable to you with regard to sourcing parts in Sydney, much closer to you in Newcastle. Our site that Whooligan suggested gives you plenty of historical data about the Capri, the car you always promised yourself! Personally, I'd also suggest sticking with the Pinto and spend the money saved from upgrading to the V6 or a V8 on it and the body/paintwork.

Cheers, Terry

**Kingsley** · 10-11-2007, 12:17 PM

Thanks guy's!!

ClevoCapri · 17-11-2007, 04:48 PM

Go the v8 conversion. Its not that hard or expensive.
You dont need to destroy the crossmember so you can put a v6 in if your that way inclined. Or get a cossie turbo. That would be fun.

whooligan · 18-11-2007, 08:04 AM

Cossie turbo.....Now, there's a nice cheap conversion....I think not!

:

Brooky1 · 18-11-2007, 07:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kingy351

I've got a MK1 Capri that will in the next few months will be getting a rebuild. Panel and paint are not a problem, it's my trade, and time isn't a factor either.
So far I've managed to source a couple of manuals, each as useless as the other when it come to the black art of wiring. I'm after a good wiring diagram for this model in both GT and standard form. Any suggestions?
Are ther any decent books on Capri's ? In particular, setting up the suspension for amatuer motorsport, and any other tricks former or current racers used to employ back in the 70's.
Finally, what is totally involved in a V8 conversion? The car currently runs a Pinto 4, which isn't too bad, but I'm curious to what's involved to update to a Windsor. I probably won't go the V8 route, but I'd like to know anyway. Thanks guy's and girls.

Hi Kingy my name is Ian and cant really help you with your problem. I have just bought a mark 3 capri with no engine or gear box, keep me in mind if your getting rid of yours as long as its no smaller than a 2 ltr and preferably a mannual wish I could be of help

All the best and good luck with your project I get mine Tuesday

Ian

whooligan · 19-11-2007, 08:42 AM

G'day Brooky. Welcome aboard the forum. Always good to meet another Mk 3 owner.