However, distributor cap wire placement depends on the engine's orientation in the vehicle. There's no single answer without knowing the specific engine type and its orientation. The distributor cap itself will have markings (often numbers 1-6) indicating the cylinder it corresponds to. These markings *must* align with the firing order.
To find the correct distributor cap wire placement:
1. Identify your engine: Is it a 2.9L V6 or a 4.9L inline-6? This is crucial. V6s and inline-6s have completely different distributor cap arrangements. Check your engine bay for an engine ID tag.
2. Locate the distributor cap: This is usually a round cap atop the distributor.
3. Look for numbers on the distributor cap: These numbers represent the firing order position. If they're not there, consult a 1989 Ford repair manual specific to your engine.
4. Use the firing order (1-5-3-6-2-4): Connect the spark plug wires to the distributor cap terminals in the order specified, matching the number on the cap with the number in the firing order sequence.
Caution: Incorrect spark plug wire placement can damage your engine. If you are unsure, consult a repair manual or a qualified mechanic. A mismatched firing order will lead to very poor running, or even a complete engine failure.
