njzx3 - perhaps carrier driver is looking for an alternate route into n.j. given how you had de- scribed the drivers there. was i just seeing things on that one post?......just kidding!
Afraid I haven't been stopping by to read the boards in a while, been really busy with work...anyway, I've got a situation with my ZX3, and thought maybe someone could give me some input on. I don't think I'll be able to check the boards again for a little while, so please email any input to me at: jedifromga@aol.com. Thanks so much for anyone that helps!
Here's the situation: I lost my keys the other day. I don't have a backup key...when I bought my car back in March (first new car I've ever bought, so I didn't know too much about the whole process), I didn't get two sets of keys like I was supposed to. I found out about two weeks after I bought the car that I was supposed to get another key/remote fob. I called the dealership (Jim Tidwell Ford in Kennessaw, GA - I do not recommend this dealership to anyone, was a horrible experience) and told them I didn't get my second set of keys. Each time I called, they gave me the runaround and avoided the issue until finally, about two months later, I called again and asked to speak to a Sales Manager, and I talked to him (at least I think it was the Sales Manager, some dealerships use tactics where they have a senior-ranking salesperson pretend to be the Sales Manager)...and whoever I talked to HUNG UP ON ME. So I gave up on the dealership. I was going to buy a key from another Ford dealership and program the keys myself. I did not realize you have to have two sets of keys (already programmed) in order to program another key. I should have read the darn manual. So now, I lost my one key. I had someone call Jim Tidwell Ford for me, and they asked for the GM of the dealership. They talked for a bit and the GM said I certainly was owed another key and that he would have one of his guys make a copy for me. That was yesterday...today, whoever was going to make a copy of the key called and said that he has to have the car up there so he could program the key and "could I drive my car to the dealership so he can do it". Well, apparently they didn't listen...I lost my one key that I have and, therefore, I cannot drive my car. So he told me to call Ford Roadside Assistance and have them tow the car to the dealership. He didn't know if I would be charged for this, though. Now, he said they might have to charge me for the programming of the key (which is like 60+ bucks). He said that if I had gotten the 2nd set of keys when I bought the car, they would have already been programmed and it wouldn't have been a problem. But he said unclaimed keys get reprogrammed and used for other cars they have on the lot, so now I would have to pay for the programming of the key.
Now this is where I ask for advice (whoa, that was a long message...sorry y'all!). Should I have to pay for the towing fee or the cost of programming the second key (which I was owed in the first place!). When my salesman checked off the items on my Delivery form, he checked off "gave customer two sets of keys".
I apologize again for the long message and I hope that someone might be able to give me some good advice...email any thoughts or suggestions to: jedifromga@aol.com.
Thanks very much!
Clint A Proud ZX3 Owner (even when surrounded by Idiot Ford Customer Service Representatives)
Gee Clint, After reading your post, forgot what I was going to post. Sure one of the guys or gals will help you out!
Oh ya, Silver Bullet. Thanks for jogging my memory on the clutch thing. Been a while since I've had a auto clutch out, or even for that matter, had a concern over one.
Oh, talking about jogging memory, I've been driving heavy trucks off and on since 1970. Think I know what's been happening out on the highway. Our driving habits have gotten progressively worse over the years. Hate to tell you guys that. Not saying we're bad drivers, but that we are in to much of a hurry and lack courtesy. And it's not gender related. Even the newer truckdrivers are bad. Way back when I started driving, drivers in this country (USofA) drove "defensively" while drivers on the other side of the pond were noted for their "offensive" driving skills. It was wild trying to learn to drive over there for one of us who was trained to drive in the US. Today we are what I would call very sloppy offensive drivers. Maybe careless would be better. In addition to driving, we're talking on phone, reading newspaper, eating, shaving, combing hair, looking at person (or baby) in back seat, looking at person we're talking to, playing with radio, along with other things I don't dare mention on this conference. I've seen it all and it's getting worse. Our mind isn't on our driving, unless of course one is an foci enthusiast.
Enough out of me, still gotta get my pax side carpet dryed out.
silver_bullet, red line oil site gives the following explanation:
"Another use of this product is as a break-in additive for drive axles using hypoid gears. Used in the proper proportions, Red Line Limited-Slip Differential Friction-Modifier/Break-in Additive will significantly reduce the friction between gears during the break-in process of a new drive axle. High temperatures can be encountered during break-in that can damage the hardening of the gear teeth. The softened teeth will, then, rapidly wear to the point of failure. This product can reduce temperatures by as much as 50° F during break-in. Friction Modifier/Break-in Additive is compatible with petroleum-based and synthetic gear lubricants." Comments?
jedimaster1 - When you were given your one key, it should have had a white plastic number tag attached to it, and your sales guy should have told you to put that number tag in a safe place. The dealer can create a new key from that number.
They should give you one set with no charge. You will pay to replace the lost set.
--
Driving - My worst experiances with awful drivers have been in Massachusetts. Every time I visit that state I see at least one wreck and a handful of scary driving examples.
Several years ago I was on a bus with a friend heading into Mass, and I told him about the bad drivers and wrecks. Just as the bus crossed the state line it passed a car that had recently plowed into a tree.
Driving back from Cap Cod on my last trip I was on a twisty two laner doing 55 to 60 when someone pulled up on my bumper. He was obviously in a bigger rush then I. A few moments later I glanced in the mirror and he was gone. I was trying to figure out where he was, when I spotted him, on my right - in the grass - passing me - driving with one hand on the wheel and one out the window flipping me the birdy. I was doing at least 60 at the time!
A few miles down the same road a car came up behind me and passed me - on a solid line curvy hilly section. As the car passed I could see the women driving was putting on her lipstick in the rear view mirror.
I totally aggree... over the past 3 months i've had th drive through mass to get to my girlfriends place in NH several times... and it is almost like as soon as you cross that mass border, you have to put up the defensive driver shields and watch out on every turn... i'd definately say that Mass drivers are just as CrapTastic as NJ drivers.
I have some experience with this additive - you DON'T want to add it to your transaxle. It is designed to be added to conventional rear-drive differentials with hypoid bevel gears, not transaxles like ours, I'm fairly sure. Call the Redline tech number and clarify this with one of their reps. I would just stick with a swap to Redline MTL or D4 ATF and see what difference that makes before adding a friction modifier like Ford offers - you can always add 2 oz. of the additive later.
BTW, I made a quick attempt to find the drain plug, and I'm still not seeing it. I have the Ford Service Manual CD coming, so I'll post what I find there. Once I learn how to navigate around the CD, I'll be happy to look up service procedures or tech info for those of you who are interested - maybe I can fax you a needed diagram as well!
Well, I got my new set of same size Z Wheels, they are the house brand of NTB but were pretty cheap and good looking and have the letter Z on the center section. yay!
And while this is way old, getting back to Alpha and American Drivers being bad. Just ask Alph how many drivers there are in Europe. I know in Germany it is under 50% of the people 30 and under and it costs like 1000.00 to get a license... I perfer the land of the free and home of the brave my own self.
pat- you make a good point.americans in general do not lack basic driving skills.however,i will agree there is an increase of discourteous drivers. there was a time when the truck drivers were known as the "knights of the highway".they were respected for the rigs they drove and the payload they hauled.they were greatly admired for the driving skills they possessed and exhibited in their daily runs.truck drivers at one time were the most courteous drivers on the road.you are right,there are many,many distractions drivers are preoccupied with.this does not mean that they lack basic driving skills but simply common sense.just sheer stupidity.
jimmy-from one fellow pennsylvanian to another. thank you!it is never way old to defend americans. in my 45 yrs. i can count zero the number of americans wanting to leave to live in europe.i will defend those the right to express opposing views as well as my own right.one can reasonably assume from reading the post that the majority of folks here have either bought a focus,are waiting for delivery or are considering purchasing one.then you have one individual who spews verbal garbage regarding how americans lack basic driving skills. this person admits to not owning a focus and has lived here only one year.the only thing thats way to old is reading about people complaining about americans,even if it only has to do with driving. although i appreciate the contributions and comments made by this person,i do not care for the negative overtones directed at americans.i wish to keep the conversation on topic but i am compelled to respond in kind. by the way,enjoy your new wheels!
I don't own a Focus. And if you read my posts in this column, it has been more often than not to defend a car which I truly find attractive. Too many posters in these columns argue from the point of view of the car they own and like to criticize all others. That's not my case. As to 'spewing verbal garbage' - I think you overdo it a bit (and I believe a lot of the readers will agree). I also 'qualified' my earlier post, if you had only read it. As to exagerated patriotism, I personally think it stinks no matter which country you're from. With that, I wish you a good day. Also, I never infringed on your right to express your opinion, and I believe that we probably socialize in different circles. Most Americans I know have travelled a lot to Europe (or elsewhere) and when we get together, we often have some entertaining debates comparing living experiences in different countries. In fact, if you look around, you'll find that more often than not, Americans have roots in many different countries (including mine, Norway).
Now people, can we share our opinions about the ZX3 without wrapping ourselves up in our respective countries' flags and getting our proverbial panties in a wad? With this being an election year, I for one am VERY tired of political rhetoric - I come to this forum for non-political car talk The fact that we have the right to gather online and speak our minds says it all, don't you think?
Here's a news page pertaining to the WRC - and if you scroll around on the page, there are several articles relating the Focus Team's performance. Apparently, they are doing really well - 3 Foci in the first four in Rally New Zealand last month. Not bad. Rally Finland, one of the more demanding rallyes, starts tomorrow, and Ford is set on scoring some winning points.
This is very true, One of my best friends lives in holland, and about a year ago when I started looking at the zx3, I told him about it... he just junda chuckled and had no comment. But, lo and behold... a short while ago when the focus was dubbed the world rally car (i think it was the Martini car?) he suddenly sent me a message over ICQ and mentioned that he is now lookin to buy a euro Z (the 5 door one) as his first car ever... I'm impressed
Silver bullet,I agree and disagree with you at the same time. I agree that this forum should be a strictly Focus oriented. On the other hand I'd like to know what is going on it the rest of the world, focus is a global car and internet is global superhighway. It's almost impossible to completely avoid politics, flags, and other national elements. I think that with presence of folks from different parts of the world our Forum can only get better, and more interesting. It can be very educative as well. That's my subjective opinion and I truly respect your point of view in our rather democratic forum.
silver_bullet, the plug IS there!!! In the exact same location as the picture shows. It was already dark when I got an opportunity to take a look. I easily found it with help of a flashlight. Regardin oil. It seems that D4 ATF will be a good choice. This weekend I will visit one of the distributors in my area.
alfaromeo, thanks for the links. Loved the video. The sound of the exhaust is just awsome. Will the speedvision channel include the Finnish stage in their programming?
Honestly, I don't know about the speedvision channel programming ...for the simple reason that my wife and I have chosen to be without a TV for the last year! It's worth checking out though. When you own a car which 'competes' in such an exciting event, it becomes quite involving!
silver_bullet, I used ramps. Without them it's next to impossible to find the plug, 'cause it sits in a some kind of a cavity on the passenger side of the tranny casing. So you need to get as close as possible to it in order to be able to see the plug.
Thanks - that is what I suspected. It must be recessed right behind the lower trans. bracket. BTW, I've written to Redline asking their recommendation on using MTL vs. D4 ATF. I'm leaning toward using the MTL, as I've had lots of good luck with that product in my climate (HOT).
Thanks. The Eurasian store prices seem to be very good. MTL or D4 ATF. Hmm... I'll e-mail the redline site with this question. Strangely the owner's guide shows that the non-zetec tranny is using "synthetic manual transmission fluid", while ours is MERCON ATF.
Just called Redline Oil and spoke with David. He suggests D4 ATF just because the manufacturer requires ATF. Here is a quote from the redline technical information page:
" In transmissions which recommend Dexron or Mercon fluids we recommend our D4 ATF which is very similar to the MTL, being a GL-4 Gear Oil also. The D4 ATF will provide better low-temperature shiftability, and the MTL would provide better wear protection for racing use.
The place is called Durham Sunroofs. It's over on Lenora. If you go to http://www.solairesunroofs.com and click on "installers" then "Washington" they're one of two official installers in Seattle. They seem very friendly.
Regarding the keys and coding, one thing no one has mentioned is that it depends on which keys you have. I do not know if "securikey" comes standard- I think it is optional- but if you have this feature the dealer has to have 2 coded keys in order to make a 3rd. If you lose 1 key they have to hook your car up to Ford by satellite and some guy in a room somewhere has to reprogram your car to accept the new key codes. So it really depends on whether or not your car has this feature. Otherwise the "key code" on the white label will work. My dealer went into great depth on this and even suggested we might want to consider a 3rd key at a cost of around $20 to avoid having to do the satellite hook up thing if we lost one of the keys it came with. Sounds like jedi-guy had a bum dealer.... BTW if the salesman checked "gave customer 2 keys" and you didn't argue then, you don't have recourse now, you will probably have to suck in up and pay for the new keys. The towing should be provided free as part of your 3/36 roadside assistance...that will take you to the nearest dealership at no charge. Hope all works our for you....
I know this is a bit behind, but this board fills up fast. I just wanted to let you know that they do not neccesarily treat the SUV buyers better, it really depends on the dealership. My husband an I recently purchased both a 2000 4runner and a 2000 zx3 kona. Believe it or don't but the Ford people treated us a hell of a lot better for buying a car that cost half as much, so you just can never tell. Hope you get your car soon... Post and let us know.. if you ever can pry yourself away from the wheel after it arrives....
21 years old and have to have my tonsils out... im not a happy person right now =(
Konagrl: you are absolutely right about the treatment being different from dealership to dealership... unfortunately, the area I live in is a SUV hell!! How do you like your kona? what color/transmission/options did you get?
I've seen the white gauges at focusperformance.com and like them, but I was reading the discussion group at Club Focus that there was a white guage face that had blue illumination for all the text at night. Any idea where I might find this? I think someone said it was made by MMR.
the last time i had checked this was the ford focus zx3 hatchback forum. say and believe as you wish.one can never overdo for ones country. why would one post here about a car they chose not to buy? sure, i will talk-up the z, i bought one. its a great car. my impression is that you want to ingratiate yourself with the other z owners to share a passion about a car you chose not to buy. makes no sense at all. i dont look to others here to agree or disagree with me,im my own man.i do however enjoy everyones input and have found very valuable information and exchange of ideas about the z.ive never read one post in the this forum complaining about folks from overseas.thats the difference here,thats all,nothing else. america is a generous country,whose sons + daughters have given the ultimate sacrifice.i choose never to forget it.this is not political,this is the truth. my point is,i read this forum for sharing experiences about the ford focus zx3 hatchback. not about someone who claims not to have bought a focus but wants to post about how americans lack basic driving skills. you brought the subject up i had responded,now you want to qualify it. i will qualify this for you. it makes no difference whether others here agree or disagree but we agree to disagree.thats my $0.002 worth. actually,its sort of overpriced.
ZX3Beast, thanks for noticing me, I didn't even get counted in the Manny and Auto count =(
I like my new wheels and tires, quite unintentionally it raised the car up a tad and seems to have given it a "rally car look"... At least while parked in the gravel "Park n Ride" parking lot. As to the WRC Focus, Ford Dealerships had big posters with the car and my salesman is soooooo cool, he pulled it off the wall and let me take it home! It is now hanging on my wall!
Lest I be accused of wrapping myself in the Red and Green flag of LaLa Land, 100% of the drivers in my humble land have passed a 130 point safety test.... Or is that our used cars?
jimmy- are there any pics of your wheels? you men- tioned they gave the z a lifted look.are they a slightly higher profile than the stock wheels? are they a brushed flat finish or shined chrome look? as far as count goes, togneter was keeping count. tog,whats the current tally?
ZX3beast - are you really Al Gore in disguise??? (I'm my own man) How cool!! Sorry, just trying to interject a little lightheartedness into this very heated debate. However, your patriotism is appreciated.
Silver Bullet RE: - shiftability in cold places. Does that go for automatic transmissions too?
I had my tonsils out at 21 too...I thought it was kinda strange but I had to get it done. One thing, don't let them lie to you and say you can eat all the ice cream and jello you want...it hurts like hell to swallow. One thing that my mom gave me was warm cream corn...believe it or not it was the only thing I could eat...good diet though. Good luck!
njzx3: I LOVE my kona focus. It kicks [non-permissible content removed]. I got the "dirt" color. I couldn't pass it up since it matches the seat covers and the bike. I had to go with the auto tranny, manual would probably be more fun, but no one had it and you can't order a kona for some reason. As far as options, I think it has all the options available except for the abs or side air bags. I was a little bit disappointed with the milage on the first tank of gas, but that should *hopefully* improve as the engine gets broken in.
Anyone know if the roof/bike rack would preclude installing a sunroof? Obviously it would have to be inbuilt if at all, any input appreciated. Also, have any of you guys seen the Hella replacement lamps for the front? They rock!
Let's not turn this into a Political debate when everyone knows that the jab they made in jest may have hurt the personna that they posted to.
These things manifest and GROW into what i see on most forums. UGLY, MEAN and CRUEL.
Nuff said on that.
Update on my ZX-3,
Didn't drive on my 'long' trip as i was picked up by my Bro in a company car (gas paid). Fished and rode a Jet-Ski(3 seater Sea-Doo...Boring)and am now due for my oil change? Sorry Ford...Only got 1560 km on da Tblue beast...I'll let YOU know when i am coming in.
Now for some serious stuff?
Reverse. I read about problems and i see now why. I also have problems in reverse and my concept was wrong. Yikes!!! I say i am wrong!
My darling woman friend will NOT allow me to put the car on ramps. WHAT!
She says that i bought the car because i wanted something i did'nt have to work on.
Okay Babe that is true. End of story?
Nah.....'Babe' i says in my most humble voice...I built the Factorys that build the cars! I now maintain the machinery that the builds the cars in the Factory that i built!
Guess what i didn't build? The Patio (interlock are piled up beside a mound of limestone) Kitchen light (under the kitchen table) New tools HIDDEN? in the Computer room (manno do i like new tools) and so on .......Oh she says 'and YOUR Stereo room' just what the heck is that on the floor? An engine? Better be for the lawnmower that broke!
Bless the world for Garage door openers! I got a Kit Plane in there and she only found the engine!!
Truth be told i also bought a top of the line Sears 6.5 hp lawnmower...Welders hooked up and i DID fix the home air condu.....
This weekend i WILL do what i know should be done.
Then? Ramps are out and i'm checking the Z out.
Might even have a box o' brew cold nuff for a bro or two handy!
And i can here it now. 'What happened to the fridge that was in the basement"?
For cryin out loud people... This whole flag debate thing has got to STOP!! it got old very quick... Dont take things so personally people. I personally think that Alfa has had numerous interesting posts about the Z and I have enjoyed reading them. I also enjoy everyone elses posts, but when the posts go from talking about the Z to non stop chatter about "politics & flags" we lose what we are here for in the first place. So all of you that are involved in this little debate, please.. DROP IT ALREADY! we are all grown adults.
To MiniZX3: Thanks for the tip on the tonsil removal diet. I'll definately keep that in mind.
To Konagrl: I'm glad you are enjoying your Z, sounds like a great car. Did you get the bike yet? I heard that there was a recall on the bikes due to a faulty gear or somethin lol.
Anyways people, Lets not forget that we are here to talk about our cars and other FRIENDLY conversation.
I, too, had my tonsils out. I was a bit younger than you though - I think I was about 13 - but I remember it well 20 years later. And, no, you will NOT want to eat ice-cream and, as a matter of fact, it will hurt if you do. Definitely go for nice luke-warm (not hot) soft stuff. Are they taking the adnoids too? "They" say that helps with snoring. Good luck with your operation. Hope you have a speedy recovery!
Ok, so wishing to quickly change the topic from politics to much more interesting things.....
I've been bitten by the bug for new headlamps in my zx3. I dunno why, just have. So, I gather (and feel free to correct me on this folks...) that I need H4-compatible bulbs. The 60/55w power is fine for me; I'm worried about going to higher wattage - I like my lenses the way they are, thanks ! My question is, why on autotoys.com can I buy a pair of Hiper 9003 H4 hiperwhite 3800K bulbs for $19.90, but a pair of PIAA 9003 H4 Plasma/Superwhites cost $66.50. Do you folks think the PIAA's are worth the extra cost ? As I say I don't want to go to higher wattage; I wanna remain legal. Similarly, has anybody replaced their fog lamps ? Some other discussion boards recommend replacement PL893 bulbs (which on autotoys cost $28.50 for a pair of superwhites), which apparently do fit the zx3.
Will appreciate any recommendations, even for other online websites for getting replacements. Thanks. Treva
Regarding the Ford Focus Car Owners' Club, I have confirmed with gabegarwick and silverbullet that they still wish to act as your spokespersons and informed Bonnie Rick, Town Hall Community Manager, as she requested. So little wheels are turning. I won't say anything more until I have something definite. Let's let it be a surprise!
Synthetic ATF will improve the cold weather shiftability of automatics too. Go to www.redlineoil.com and read some of their tech info on synthetic ATFs. Your tranny will thank you in the long run.
Yes, I got the bike the same time I took delivery of the car. I will be going to the bike shop this weekend to switch sizes though. Apparently they come in small, medium and large and are just assigned to a car randomly. The kona bike dealer said it could just be switched for a smaller size. I don't know if there are any problems with the bike, I'll give you an update after I actually get one sized to ride...
Comments
scribed the drivers there. was i just seeing things
on that one post?......just kidding!
Afraid I haven't been stopping by to read the boards in a while, been really busy with work...anyway, I've got a situation with my ZX3, and thought maybe someone could give me some input on. I don't think I'll be able to check the boards again for a little while, so please email any input to me at: jedifromga@aol.com. Thanks so much for anyone that helps!
Here's the situation: I lost my keys the other day. I don't have a backup key...when I bought my car back in March (first new car I've ever bought, so I didn't know too much about the whole process), I didn't get two sets of keys like I was supposed to. I found out about two weeks after I bought the car that I was supposed to get another key/remote fob. I called the dealership (Jim Tidwell Ford in Kennessaw, GA - I do not recommend this dealership to anyone, was a horrible experience) and told them I didn't get my second set of keys. Each time I called, they gave me the runaround and avoided the issue until finally, about two months later, I called again and asked to speak to a Sales Manager, and I talked to him (at least I think it was the Sales Manager, some dealerships use tactics where they have a senior-ranking salesperson pretend to be the Sales Manager)...and whoever I talked to HUNG UP ON ME. So I gave up on the dealership. I was going to buy a key from another Ford dealership and program the keys myself. I did not realize you have to have two sets of keys (already programmed) in order to program another key. I should have read the darn manual. So now, I lost my one key. I had someone call Jim Tidwell Ford for me, and they asked for the GM of the dealership. They talked for a bit and the GM said I certainly was owed another key and that he would have one of his guys make a copy for me. That was yesterday...today, whoever was going to make a copy of the key called and said that he has to have the car up there so he could program the key and "could I drive my car to the dealership so he can do it". Well, apparently they didn't listen...I lost my one key that I have and, therefore, I cannot drive my car. So he told me to call Ford Roadside Assistance and have them tow the car to the dealership. He didn't know if I would be charged for this, though. Now, he said they might have to charge me for the programming of the key (which is like 60+ bucks). He said that if I had gotten the 2nd set of keys when I bought the car, they would have already been programmed and it wouldn't have been a problem. But he said unclaimed keys get reprogrammed and used for other cars they have on the lot, so now I would have to pay for the programming of the key.
Now this is where I ask for advice (whoa, that was a long message...sorry y'all!). Should I have to pay for the towing fee or the cost of programming the second key (which I was owed in the first place!). When my salesman checked off the items on my Delivery form, he checked off "gave customer two sets of keys".
I apologize again for the long message and I hope that someone might be able to give me some good advice...email any thoughts or suggestions to: jedifromga@aol.com.
Thanks very much!
Clint
A Proud ZX3 Owner (even when surrounded by Idiot Ford Customer Service Representatives)
After reading your post, forgot what I was going to post. Sure one of the guys or gals will help you out!
Oh ya, Silver Bullet. Thanks for jogging my memory on the clutch thing. Been a while since I've had a auto clutch out, or even for that matter, had a concern over one.
Oh, talking about jogging memory, I've been driving heavy trucks off and on since 1970. Think I know what's been happening out on the highway. Our driving habits have gotten progressively worse over the years. Hate to tell you guys that. Not saying we're bad drivers, but that we are in to much of a hurry and lack courtesy. And it's not gender related. Even the newer truckdrivers are bad. Way back when I started driving, drivers in this country (USofA) drove "defensively" while drivers on the other side of the pond were noted for their "offensive" driving skills. It was wild trying to learn to drive over there for one of us who was trained to drive in the US. Today we are what I would call very sloppy offensive drivers. Maybe careless would be better. In addition to driving, we're talking on phone, reading newspaper, eating, shaving, combing hair, looking at person (or baby) in back seat, looking at person we're talking to, playing with radio, along with other things I don't dare mention on this conference. I've seen it all and it's getting worse. Our mind isn't on our driving, unless of course one is an foci enthusiast.
Enough out of me, still gotta get my pax side carpet dryed out.
Pat
red line oil site gives the following explanation:
"Another use of this product is as a break-in additive for drive axles using hypoid gears. Used in the proper proportions, Red Line Limited-Slip Differential Friction-Modifier/Break-in Additive
will significantly reduce the friction between gears during the break-in process of a new drive
axle. High temperatures can be encountered during break-in that can damage the hardening of
the gear teeth. The softened teeth will, then, rapidly wear to the point of failure. This product can reduce temperatures by as much as 50° F during break-in. Friction Modifier/Break-in Additive
is compatible with petroleum-based and synthetic gear lubricants."
Comments?
They should give you one set with no charge. You will pay to replace the lost set.
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Driving - My worst experiances with awful drivers have been in Massachusetts. Every time I visit that state I see at least one wreck and a handful of scary driving examples.
Several years ago I was on a bus with a friend heading into Mass, and I told him about the bad drivers and wrecks. Just as the bus crossed the state line it passed a car that had recently plowed into a tree.
Driving back from Cap Cod on my last trip I was on a twisty two laner doing 55 to 60 when someone pulled up on my bumper. He was obviously in a bigger rush then I. A few moments later I glanced in the mirror and he was gone. I was trying to figure out where he was, when I spotted him, on my right - in the grass - passing me - driving with one hand on the wheel and one out the window flipping me the birdy. I was doing at least 60 at the time!
A few miles down the same road a car came up behind me and passed me - on a solid line curvy hilly section. As the car passed I could see the women driving was putting on her lipstick in the rear view mirror.
Of course traffic lights are optional in Mass.
I'm always so glad to leave the state alive.
BTW, I made a quick attempt to find the drain plug, and I'm still not seeing it. I have the Ford Service Manual CD coming, so I'll post what I find there. Once I learn how to navigate around the CD, I'll be happy to look up service procedures or tech info for those of you who are interested - maybe I can fax you a needed diagram as well!
And while this is way old, getting back to Alpha and American Drivers being bad. Just ask Alph how many drivers there are in Europe. I know in Germany it is under 50% of the people 30 and under and it costs like 1000.00 to get a license... I perfer the land of the free and home of the brave my own self.
Jimmy
not lack basic driving skills.however,i will agree
there is an increase of discourteous drivers.
there was a time when the truck drivers were known
as the "knights of the highway".they were respected
for the rigs they drove and the payload they hauled.they were greatly admired for the driving
skills they possessed and exhibited in their daily
runs.truck drivers at one time were the most courteous drivers on the road.you are right,there are many,many distractions drivers are preoccupied with.this does not mean that they lack basic driving skills but simply common sense.just sheer stupidity.
thank you!it is never way old to defend americans.
in my 45 yrs. i can count zero the number of americans wanting to leave to live in europe.i will
defend those the right to express opposing views
as well as my own right.one can reasonably assume from reading the post that the majority of folks here have either bought a focus,are waiting for delivery or are considering purchasing one.then you
have one individual who spews verbal garbage regarding how americans lack basic driving skills.
this person admits to not owning a focus and has
lived here only one year.the only thing thats way
to old is reading about people complaining about americans,even if it only has to do with driving.
although i appreciate the contributions and comments made by this person,i do not care for the negative overtones directed at americans.i wish to
keep the conversation on topic but i am compelled
to respond in kind.
by the way,enjoy your new wheels!
Thanks for the tip on white plastic number tag - my salesman recorded the number but I don't recall him telling me to hang on to it.
togneter,
which business in Seattle has sunroofs on sale ?
my comment on current driving: I'd much rather
have a hand available for switching gears than
holding a cell phone
As to 'spewing verbal garbage' - I think you overdo it a bit (and I believe a lot of the readers will agree). I also 'qualified' my earlier post, if you had only read it.
As to exagerated patriotism, I personally think it stinks no matter which country you're from.
With that, I wish you a good day. Also, I never infringed on your right to express your opinion, and I believe that we probably socialize in different circles. Most Americans I know have travelled a lot to Europe (or elsewhere) and when we get together, we often have some entertaining debates comparing living experiences in different countries. In fact, if you look around, you'll find that more often than not, Americans have roots in many different countries (including mine, Norway).
Case closed - let's get back to car talk.
Here are some pics from the press unveiling last year of the Focus rally car. Racing is an essential component of marketing for car manufacturers in Europe, especially in the 'small car segment' where competition is fierce. Success or failure in rallyes often makes or breaks the success of a specific model, and the effect often trickles down onto other cars in the range. The video streams may take time to download, but it's kind'a fun to hear and see the Focus on its trial track run (turn up your volume):
text:
http://www.rallycar.co.uk/focus/text.html
pics:
http://www.specialstage.com/issue5/images/focus13.jpg
http://www.specialstage.com/issue5/images/focus16.jpg
http://www.rallycar.co.uk/focus/g.html
video:
http://www.rallycar.co.uk/focus/2.mpg
Rally Finland, one of the more demanding rallyes, starts tomorrow, and Ford is set on scoring some winning points.
http://www.fortunecity.com/silverstone/lancia/58/gallery/ford/focus_cosworth.htm
I agree that this forum should be a strictly Focus oriented.
On the other hand I'd like to know what is going on it the rest of the world, focus is a global car and internet is global superhighway. It's almost impossible to completely avoid politics, flags, and other national elements.
I think that with presence of folks from different parts of the world our Forum can only get better, and more interesting.
It can be very educative as well.
That's my subjective opinion and I truly respect
your point of view in our rather democratic forum.
the plug IS there!!! In the exact same location as the picture shows. It was already dark when I got an opportunity to take a look. I easily found it with help of a flashlight.
Regardin oil. It seems that D4 ATF will be a good choice. This weekend I will visit one of the distributors in my area.
alfaromeo,
thanks for the links. Loved the video. The sound of the exhaust is just awsome.
Will the speedvision channel include the Finnish stage in their programming?
I used ramps. Without them it's next to impossible to find the plug, 'cause it sits in a some kind of a cavity on the passenger side of the tranny casing. So you need to get as close as possible to it in order to be able to see the plug.
MTL or D4 ATF. Hmm...
I'll e-mail the redline site with this question.
Strangely the owner's guide shows that the non-zetec tranny is using "synthetic manual transmission fluid", while ours is MERCON ATF.
He suggests D4 ATF just because the manufacturer requires ATF.
Here is a quote from the redline technical information page:
" In transmissions which recommend Dexron or Mercon fluids we recommend our D4 ATF which is
very similar to the MTL, being a GL-4 Gear Oil also. The D4 ATF will provide better
low-temperature shiftability, and the MTL would provide better wear protection for racing use.
Konagrl: you are absolutely right about the treatment being different from dealership to dealership... unfortunately, the area I live in is a SUV hell!! How do you like your kona? what color/transmission/options did you get?
NJ
Brian
focus zx3 hatchback forum. say and believe as you
wish.one can never overdo for ones country. why
would one post here about a car they chose not to buy? sure, i will talk-up the z, i bought one.
its a great car. my impression is that you want to ingratiate yourself with the other z owners to
share a passion about a car you chose not to buy.
makes no sense at all. i dont look to others here
to agree or disagree with me,im my own man.i do however enjoy everyones input and have found very
valuable information and exchange of ideas about
the z.ive never read one post in the this forum
complaining about folks from overseas.thats the difference here,thats all,nothing else. america
is a generous country,whose sons + daughters have
given the ultimate sacrifice.i choose never to
forget it.this is not political,this is the truth.
my point is,i read this forum for sharing experiences about the ford focus zx3 hatchback.
not about someone who claims not to have bought a focus but wants to post about how americans lack basic driving skills. you brought the subject up
i had responded,now you want to qualify it. i will
qualify this for you. it makes no difference whether others here agree or disagree but we agree
to disagree.thats my $0.002 worth. actually,its
sort of overpriced.
I like my new wheels and tires, quite unintentionally it raised the car up a tad and seems to have given it a "rally car look"... At least while parked in the gravel "Park n Ride" parking lot. As to the WRC Focus, Ford Dealerships had big posters with the car and my salesman is soooooo cool, he pulled it off the wall and let me take it home! It is now hanging on my wall!
Lest I be accused of wrapping myself in the Red and Green flag of LaLa Land, 100% of the drivers in my humble land have passed a 130 point safety test.... Or is that our used cars?
Jimmy!
here sooner rather than later.thanks for the link.
tioned they gave the z a lifted look.are they a
slightly higher profile than the stock wheels? are
they a brushed flat finish or shined chrome look?
as far as count goes, togneter was keeping count.
tog,whats the current tally?
Silver Bullet RE: - shiftability in cold places. Does that go for automatic transmissions too?
it was the only thing I could eat...good diet though. Good luck!
Anyone know if the roof/bike rack would preclude installing a sunroof? Obviously it would have to be inbuilt if at all, any input appreciated. Also, have any of you guys seen the Hella replacement lamps for the front? They rock!
Let's not turn this into a Political debate when everyone knows that the jab they made in jest may have hurt the personna that they posted to.
These things manifest and GROW into what i see on most forums. UGLY, MEAN and CRUEL.
Nuff said on that.
Update on my ZX-3,
Didn't drive on my 'long' trip as i was picked up by my Bro in a company car (gas paid). Fished and rode a Jet-Ski(3 seater Sea-Doo...Boring)and am now due for my oil change? Sorry Ford...Only got 1560 km on da Tblue beast...I'll let YOU know when i am coming in.
Now for some serious stuff?
Reverse. I read about problems and i see now why. I also have problems in reverse and my concept was wrong. Yikes!!! I say i am wrong!
My darling woman friend will NOT allow me to put the car on ramps. WHAT!
She says that i bought the car because i wanted something i did'nt have to work on.
Okay Babe that is true. End of story?
Nah.....'Babe' i says in my most humble voice...I built the Factorys that build the cars! I now maintain the machinery that the builds the cars in the Factory that i built!
Guess what i didn't build? The Patio (interlock are piled up beside a mound of limestone) Kitchen light (under the kitchen table) New tools HIDDEN? in the Computer room (manno do i like new tools) and so on .......Oh she says 'and YOUR Stereo room' just what the heck is that on the floor? An engine? Better be for the lawnmower that broke!
Bless the world for Garage door openers! I got a Kit Plane in there and she only found the engine!!
Truth be told i also bought a top of the line Sears 6.5 hp lawnmower...Welders hooked up and i DID fix the home air condu.....
This weekend i WILL do what i know should be done.
Then? Ramps are out and i'm checking the Z out.
Might even have a box o' brew cold nuff for a bro or two handy!
And i can here it now. 'What happened to the fridge that was in the basement"?
Oh Oh,
5 speed Manual
DEEP tint.
Nothing more at this time.
Peace,
And nothin wrong with Alfa's!
W
To MiniZX3: Thanks for the tip on the tonsil removal diet. I'll definately keep that in mind.
To Konagrl: I'm glad you are enjoying your Z, sounds like a great car. Did you get the bike yet? I heard that there was a recall on the bikes due to a faulty gear or somethin lol.
Anyways people, Lets not forget that we are here to talk about our cars and other FRIENDLY conversation.
Thanks,
NJ
I've been bitten by the bug for new headlamps in my zx3. I dunno why, just have. So, I gather (and feel free to correct me on this folks...) that I need H4-compatible bulbs. The 60/55w power is fine for me; I'm worried about going to higher wattage - I like my lenses the way they are, thanks !
My question is, why on autotoys.com can I buy a pair of Hiper 9003 H4 hiperwhite 3800K bulbs for $19.90, but a pair of PIAA 9003 H4 Plasma/Superwhites cost $66.50. Do you folks think the PIAA's are worth the extra cost ? As I say I don't want to go to higher wattage; I wanna remain legal.
Similarly, has anybody replaced their fog lamps ? Some other discussion boards recommend replacement PL893 bulbs (which on autotoys cost $28.50 for a pair of superwhites), which apparently do fit the zx3.
Will appreciate any recommendations, even for other online websites for getting replacements. Thanks.
Treva
carlady/host