One of the things we are looking at doing on Project LS-GT, probably one of the last things due to the cost and complexity, will be to add a 6-speed manual transmission to the LS-8 to see what that will do to the car, in terms of performance and character. We also want to gauge public reaction to it. There are several very large obstacles that we have to design around, such as reprogramming the PCM to recognize a V-8 manual and a six-speed, etc. So don't expect to see this modification anytime soon.
I figured that title might raise a few eyebrows. Okay, the title is a gotcha, as I'm sure you should know that I would NEVER actually trade my Black LS-6 5M for a land yacht - at least not in this decade anyway :-) BUT.... yesterday was my youngest daughter's wedding and while it was a very small affair, it was lovely.
On the way to the chapel, I had my daughter, and her bridesmaid in the back of my LS plus my wife (fancy doooo and all) in the front with me. I'm not sure the rear doors on the LS were ever designed to accomodate the stuffing of one very nervous bride-to-be complete with flowing dress into the back seat. Even with my wife's seat all the forward, it was a tight fit to keep from producing any more wrinkles than we had to. We were quite a sight I must say though...
However, my new son-in-law decided to rent a Town Car for the ride from the chapel to the reception and this is where the Town Car really earns its strips in my opinion. There was no problem with room in the back seat of that thing. Even with my son-in-law at 6' 2" and 275 pounds!
So the next time you are tempted to chuckle at the TC as a rolling coffin, remember their size, ride and reputation are appreciated some times -- even by the likes of lead-foot Kinny here:-) And my daughter got quite a charge out the fact that she rode to the wedding in one Lincoln and back in another.
I just went for a Sunday afternoon lot-cruise and saw 3 new V6 automatics with the Sport package. Each of these cars had an item on the window sticker that said something like "CD discount" with a -$605 in the price column. The Sport package was shown at $1990, so the free CD changer thing is real, and the Sport package on these cars has a net retail of $1385.
What was odd about these cars is that they didn't have a build date on the window sticker. There was text in the bottom right-hand box, but instead of a date there was a code of some sort. I also saw a Sport that had a build date of 01 29 01 shown, and it did NOT have the CD discount. I assume this means that the cars with the discount were built in February. There were no V8s with recent build dates--this dealer usually has 40-50 LSs, but his stock has dwindled to about 20-25. I also saw several Navigators with February build dates that had a similar CD discount.
I may be wrong about this, but I believe that window stickers, at least in the US, must be supplied by the factory. I also believe that any equipment discount offered by the manufacturer to the end customer must be shown on the sticker. If it's a dealer incentive or a rebate in lieu of low-interest financing, it won't obviously appear on the sticker.
George: If the free CD deal applied to your car, it would've been on the window sticker. I assume it didn't because yours was built in January; or, perhaps it doesn't apply to manuals.
Frustrating, I know, but sometimes we're just victimized by bad timing. For example, the polished wheels on non-Sport cars, which used to be a $405 option, are no-charge on cars built after mid-December. This is the sort of thing that can be really irritating to those of us who keep up with the details, but most people are not likely to even notice it.
Kinny: Let me add my congratulations on your daughter's wedding! I agree w/your assessment of the Town Car; my mother has one, and it's very comfortable. I wouldn't want it as a daily driver, but it's quite nice in the right situation.
Yes, when we're talking about minor imperfections on our cars, or small problems at a dealership, or even hassles at work, it is easy to forget the really important things in life. Am I a proud dad? You bet!
I have the answer! I ordered the '01 console "top" with the redesigned cupholders last week. The part was $68 at my dealer. If it doesn't fit (not likely) or the color is wrong (not likely either), I won't have to pay. As long as all goes well, I'll have my choice of cupholders! I'll keep you all advised.
kinny: A hardy congratulations from the ezaircon4jc clan!! We have a few years as our daughter is "only" 10!
azlels: Welcome to the rabid LS club! I've got nearly 12k on my '00 V6 non-sport and the driving just keeps on getting better! The "lack" of storage has actually not been near the issue I thought it would. I already took care of the lack of a second power outlet. Enjoy!
How did you solve the second power outlet issue? I hope the new console fits. I think I read in an earlier entry that someone had made the switch just fine.
The 2001 console top will fit fine in the earlier cars. The only issue will be a small visible cut-out in the console bottom. This notch provided swing clearance for the swing-away cupholder and will leave a hole about 1/4 inch by 3 inches long uncovered. It is next to the park brake handle and is not very visible. I drove like that for 4 months with a protoype cupholder and no one noticed or mentioned it. The colors did not change for 2001 so it will match your interior as well.
Personally, if I had the 2001 cupholder, I would retrofit the 2000 if possible. Having them hidden as they are 90% of the time in my car is preferable for me. Now a second power outlet would be a great addition.
I have instructions on the owners site under the same post as speaker replacement. Here they are: with a small flat head screwdriver, pry off the top of the trim piece surrounding the ashtray. Pop off the top center console piece, there are no screws, just clips. The rear A/C duct piece just pops off. I bought the outlet from Radio Shack for about $10. Measure up the rear A/C duct piece enough to allow for the bracket that sticks up from the tunnel (I didn't and had to notch out the bracket without damaging the mounting hardware) there is enough room beneath the A/C vents, drill the hole for the outlet. For the wiring, I used the red wire from the lighter for power and a stud on top of the tunnel for the ground. I had to remove the ashtray assembly to access the lighter wiring. If you use one of those piggy-back connectors, before buttoning things back up, check for proper ashtray operation. I just laid the "hot" wire in the bottom of the console and ran it behind the mounting bracket at the front of the console. I have the deep charcoal interior and with the black outlet it looks factory, IMHO.
Hope this helps. If you need any more info, feel free to send an e-mail to me.
I ran my 2000 LS V8, with stock tires, without Advance trak, the last two winters in the Ann Arbor, MI area. Absolutely no problems with traction on acceleration, stopping, or cornering. The LS is a remarkably well-behaved car under almost any driving condition.
Just got a call Sat PM that my car has finally arrived! Of course I could't pick it up Sat as they were getting ready to close... Going sometime today - can't wait!!!
I'm looking at the LS as a possible next car. But I've had people discouraging me from buying a RWD due to the supposed "problems" with handling and stability of a RWD in snow. And living in Michigan, it becomes a major concern. I know the LS has the AdvanceTrac as an option, but is it effective in keeping the car stable? Has anyone had problems in the snow because of the RWD? I don't know if this question has been posted earlier, but I did look through the posts & didn't find an answer. Hopefully someone will help me out with this decision. Thanks.
Just a question. If RWD is such a "problem," what did we do prior to the FWD explosion in the 80's? Seems to me that we have many more years of experience driving RWD in inclimate weather than in FWD. At least in a RWD car you're not just along for the ride in a skid like you are in FWD. You have potentially 4 wheels working for you instead of just 2. I have slid in FWD cars in the snow and it wasn't any fun. Virtually no input works until the front wheels regain traction. I'd rather swap ends in a confined place as opposed to just keep sliding in a straight line. And on ice, even 4WD slides nicely. I don't live in snow now, but from the posts I've read earlier, a good set of snow tires work wonders.
The build date is on the very bottom line of the window sticker on the far right-hand side. It's the last six digits in format MM DD YY. This seems to be generally true for Ford products; however, I saw some new LSs yesterday that did not have this date. I'm not sure about non-Ford products, either--haven't paid attention to them recently. The window sticker format is probably government-regulated to some degree, but I don't know the details.
There's also a sticker affixed (on the LS) to the inner part of the driver's door opening below the A-pillar that has a month-year date on it, but I'm not sure about the significance of this date. This sticker has such things as tire and axle codes, weights, etc. along with a bar code.
My 2001 I just picked up has a date of 2/1 on the tag affixed inside the driver door on the body. Since my build date was supposed to be 1/29, I figure this is probably the real build date.
So, johnny, it would seem I should qualify for a free CD changer whether they started it in Jan or Feb, eh? My sticker has no indication of anything deducted for that. (In fact, all the numbers are added, none subtracted :>)
I just picked up my car - didn't check the build date - but it must be pretty recent; and there was no deduction for the CD changer either. I got a pretty good deal, so figured I would just leave it alone.
When you separate yourself from your new LS, fill us in on your experience with your dealer today and most of all what you think about the car. I bet you didn't drive straight home!
Read the manual ASAP. Every time I thumb through it I find something new.
Enjoy your trip to South Jersey tomorrow.
Good Luck, Tom....
PS, I would check into the discount with your dealers. This might be time for a call to Jim Rogers.
Hi all: You're right Tom - did not drive right back to the office. Took a slight detour to check out the car. Boy, I did not want to stop driving.
The dealer was great. Met the sales mgr again and he took an interest in my experience of picking up the car and getting all the paperwork done.
Business mgr was efficient in getting the paperwork completed and only tried selling me one thing. Something about not having to pay excess wear and tear. Wasn't really paying attention since I never have to pay wear and tear and I didn't want it. No pressure to do it - he just said OK.
Salesman took me to the service dept to introduce me to the service mgr and I got his card. They scheduled a first service visit for May, but I'm sure it was only a formality and I will not be suing that date. But I could be wrong.
Went to get the car and they were still detailing it. Perfectly washed with a full tank of gas.
Couldn't have had a better experience. Montclair Lincoln Mercury is the dealer.
Have two other cars coming off lease in the next couple of months (business partners) and will be going back there without a doubt. One partner drives Volvos and they happen to have a related Volvo dealership. Sales mgr said to give him a call with the salesman's name and he will arrange the deal.
From my first experience and first price to my return to negotiate a better price I couldn't have asked for more in terms of service, willingness to negotiate, etc. Hope the service is just as good.
Just got off the phone with one of the head SCCA full-time instructors on his way back from Mississippi. He just came from an autocross sponsored by a Lincoln dealer there. The LS was naturally the feature car. I thought you would be interested in his comments.
He said that he, along with the other instructors, were quite surprised at how well this four-door luxury sedan handled itself in the autocross. The pro drivers took turns going through the course with the LS cars and timing themselves against the course top qualifying time, which was against a Corvette. While they didn't expect to beat the time of this sports car, they were very surprised that they were able to come, in his words, "pretty damn close". He said that the handling of this car was just as good as a M3/M5 and much better than a 5 series.
Just thought you'd like to know the opinion of someone who instructs people on high-performance driving on a daily basis.
Any tips on how to treat and handle my new V8 sport? I've heard not to go over a certain speed for a limited number of miles, vary speeds. Is this true? Any other tips? Should I keep away from the select shift for a while?
Hi Joe: Red is the color and I love it! Don't usually travel route 3. Live close to the office and travel Pleasant Valley Way to Bloomfield Avenue every day. When I'm not visiting other locations, that is.
will head on over to the llsoc site and sign up. Have been there but not signed in.
I'm certain that there are a lot of different opinions on breaking in The LS. You will notice that the engine is tight for a few thousand miles, then all of a sudden you will notice that it starts to really open up when you get on it. The way I broke my LS in was to drive it like I always drive, no different. If you take long trips on the interstate, maybe you should vary your speed. Any legal highway speed is certainly ok. I would avoid hard braking to allow the brake pads to break in (if your headed at the back of a tractor trailer screw the break pads). I think Mark would agree that you can use the hell out of the SST and it will only love you back (with the new software that is). When it comes to breaking in, cars these days are engineered so well they don't need as much loving care as (now I'm feeling old) they used to years ago. Any questions feel free to contact joe or me and I hope you join the NJ chapter LLSOC, you won't find better help with LS questions anywhere else.
Now that you mention the brakes I did feel like the brakes weren't as sensitive as I would like. Unless its just that I have to get used to these. Seems like you have to give quite a bit of pressure to stop the car. Then again I guess it could have been the speed I was going!
The breaks on the LS can be deceiving and there have been a few discussions about them. A few people including me felt they had too much fade or were soft. After getting used to them you will become very confident of there stopping abilities (they stop on a dime). Just press down and feel safe, you will get used to them.
Traction in bad weather is largely a function of weight over the drive wheels. That's why most FWD cars are better at going (not stopping or turning)than most RWD cars. Since the LS has less weight on the front wheels and therefore more weight on the rear (drive) wheels, it performs much better on slippery roads than most RWD cars. The traction control helps keep one drive wheel from spinning while the other does nothing. Almost 50% of the weight on the drive wheels combined with power to both drive wheels makes for a decent slippery conditions car from the will it go (not get stuck) perspective. Anti lock brakes and AdvanceTrac help control the car once it is under way. Hope this helps. The LS is a very balanced and responsive car. I love mine.
I started using Leather Cleaner and Conditioner from Zaino Bros. (I know... but I haven't joined the cult, yet.) I have used the cleaner & conditioner about once a month for the past year of ownership... (Happy LS Anniversary to me - one year ago today, I brought my baby home.)
Anyway, it honestly smells like a brand new car inside and with 14,000 miles, I believe it has a lot to do with keeping it clean and keeping the seats treated.
The 92 Continental that I bought had 130,000 miles on it, and I don't think the leather was EVER cleaned/conditioned, but after scraping all of the crap out of the cracks and turning a bucket of clean water brown, I was able to restore the seats pretty well with the Zaino products.
The transmission doesn't learn driving styles. It learns how long a particular shift lasts. It adjusts pressures for that shift to maintain the proper shift time. Driving hard or soft doesn't matter. It just learns for each shift you do.
The SST software in all the 2001 cars is the same. The TSB that is out does not change the SST shifts in a 2001 at all. They already have the latest.
Mike- I got a real kick out of your post #1016 B/C I was thinking precisely the same thing just the other day. How did we ever get through the winter before FWD? I then thought back to all of my RWD cars. I always insisted on anti-spin diffs. You know what? The times I was stuck were few and far between. Of course, I always had to order and wait for my cars, but this was something I just refused to compromise on. The cost in those days was something ridiculous like $43.00. Even in the context of the times, this was cheap and probably the buy of the century.
I must admit though, my first ever FWD commuter car (1982 Chevy Citation- I know, I know) got me home in a major snowstorm the first winter I owned it in about 2 hours, when some co-workers didn't get home 'til 9 that night. I remember driving up the side of the highway in the tracks of a Jeep Wrangler while the roadway was completely blocked with cars.
Now, fast forward to the LS. This has been a pretty bad winter around here compared to the last few. The LS is particularly well-balanced. Having just about 50/50 weight balance with the V6 really helps. The traction control works well as long as the road is flat. I thought it actually worked better on ice than snow. I must say though, that I have gotten stuck a number of times this winter. I was able to extricate myself once by disabling TC and rocking the car, as the OM recommends. One other time, I had to be pushed out by my cousin, whose house I got stuck in front of, even with using SST for 3rd gear start. I still would still like to have the option of anti-slip in conjunction with TC. IMO, this would make a more effective winter driving combo. All in all, however, the LS is still the most confidence-inspiring car I have driven in foul weather-rain or snow.
Congrats to the new LS owners. Welcome to the fold. It's especially good to see some more owners from the East coast (I'm on LI). Maybe we can get together some time.
Congrats also to kinny on your new "son." I can only wish you two the kind of relationship my late father-in-law and I had. Still miss him after 15 years.
For what it's worth: I noticed a distinct "loosening up" of my V8 shortly after 4,000 miles. Same amount of throttle = quicker revs, rather suddenly. I broke mine in very gently, kept it below 4000 rpm for the first 2000 or so miles, then eased into it. Funny thing, putting a lot of break-in miles on it when it was new was easy. Still is.
I am aware of the fact that the SST software on all 2001's is the same. What I meant to get across was that my 2000 LS before the Re-flash was not so forgiving or smooth for that matter. Now I find it smooth shifting and a joy to use. Thanks for your ongoing efforts to Improve the LS transmission.
Mark, now I'm a little confused. How does the tranny determine shift time? Also, how can you change it? I like quick, firm shifts. Not the longish 2-3 shift in my '96 Sable. That usually feels like a hesitation under light throttle.
Hi everyone: I am Don, living in Dallas, Texas. I am 27, and I just purchased my first luxury vehicle. It's a pearl blue LS V-8 sport with medium graphite interior. I haven't actually picked the car up yet - tomorrow is the big day. So, I can't wait to officially join the owner's club soon.
One of the first things I plan to do is upgrade the horrible speakers in my new car. I am not looking for a bass-thumpin' pimp mobile type system. What I want is a pretty powerful audio experience that sounds really clean when I turn it up good and loud.
I assume many of you have also upgraded the sound system. Any advice? I am particularly interested as to whether you think the Alpine deck is a solid deck that is simply wired to sub-par speakers, or whether I should replace the deck. My current plan is to keep the deck, put new JVC speakers all around, plus install an amp and a sub. Any opinions?
This looks like a great message board with lots of very active participants. So, I am really glad to be a part of this little corner of cyberspace. Any audio advice will be appreciated.
Hi Don, WELCOME TO THE CLUB!!!!! Isn't this a great car. Lincoln does have a goofy odometer as you run miles up way faster than you think :-)! That or the driving is just sooooo much fun! I have just shy of 12k and can't wait to get behind the wheel again.
I changed out my front speakers with Polk dX7 and the rear with Infinity Reference 5752cf. I have the base 4 speaker system and this was a vast improvment! I'm 44 and this set-up is fine with me. I can still crank up enough volume to give myself a headache! Someone, I can't remember who, has a system like you described. Check out www.llsoc.com and under the registry you may find out who upgraded their system like you suggested.
I am interested in what wax/polish you use. I am a Zaino convert finding it much superior to Zymol's Concours wax. But if there is something better than Zaino (easier to apply and long lasting) I will switch in a heartbeat. Please let me know what you use. Thanks.
The transmission has a speed sensor on the input shaft and on the output shaft. There is one in the middle, too, but that one is not used for adaptive.
The software can read the time a shift takes by looking at the speed sensors. The transmission ratio can be calculated by dividing the input speed by the output speed. All you need to do is measure how long the ratio change takes.
If the ratio change takes longer than it should, next time the software will ask for more pressure to make that shift. If it takes less time than is should there will be less pressure for the next one of those shifts.
Don. 27 yrs old with an old man Lincoln! Kidding. Lemme guess...was one of your alternate choices a new BMW 5 series? Mine was, and the value of the LS got me behind the wheel of a V6 Sport 2000. Had it new since 12/99, and been lovin it. While I have the original Alpine Audiophile which is PERFECT, in my opinion, there are those who may always want more in their stereo systems. In my experiences with previous automobiles, you would be surprised at the improvement you can make by simply getting more CLEAN power to your stock setup. Stock speakers may appear lightweight, cheap, inferior...but seriously...you may be surprised how well they perform with say, 30-50% more clean amp power. If I were looking for better sound, and a main priority were to keep things as stock looking as possible, I would visit a good car stereo shop, and have them plug in a nice Rockford Phosgate or Alpine amp into the stock system. Since your amp is under the rear decklid, they should be able to tap into the stock wiring without much problem, which would give you a good demo without a purchase. If you like what you hear, let them do the install for you.
Just a suggestion...enjoy your LS. After 28,000 miles and 14 months, I can assure you, that this is one serious performance sedan thats well thought out and put together.
I haven't checked my speakers yet for the famous whizzer cones, but the system has really grown on me and sounds good enough to leave alone. My V6 Sport (non-audiophile) has clean, decent sound at reasonable volume levels. I say reasonable from the perspective that I like to listen to music turned up, but not so the guy at the light next to me can hear it. Now, if I really turn it up, I get distortion in the low-end, but at half volume, it is fine.
I have ALWAYS performed major upgrades to my sound systems in the past, with subs, amps, component speakers in the doors, etc. (I am sure my hearing has deteriorated becuase of it as well.) One thing that happens is that once you replace speakers with a high quality type, you usually don't have enough power from your deck to drive them to their best output. You then end up putting an amp in to boost the speakers to their best range. Then, just a little more base would be good, so in goes an 8" to 10" sub and another amp.
At the end of the day, what you really have to decide is what floats your boat. If you want to upgrade, start with the front door speakers. If your happy with that, great. If you need more, dig out the plastic 'cuase it can get spendy.
I took my 2000 LS in today for an oil change (also to reflash tranny). 6000 miles of bliss and now it is time to change out the dino-oil to Mobil1.
While it is in the shop, I am having the radio looked at as to why it stays on when the key is removed AND AFTER the door is open. Also having the cruise control looked at becuase it won't step up and down. I will post a follow up message with the repairs done in case anyone else suffers from the same symptoms.
BTW, the Taurus loaner I have for the day really makes me appreciate the drive and quality of my LS. But it seems to be pretty snappy out of the gates!
Just took my LS in for 10,000 mile service and was told no tire rotation necessary as they had been rotated at 5,000. Yet the Lincoln website says tires should be rotated at 10,000, and again at 15,000. I asked the dealer to rotate, and they acted like I was smoking something goofy. Anyone care to clarify for me.
By the way, just returned from a quick trip from Evansville, IN to Bedford, VA via I-64. Started with about 8,800 miles on odometer. Was disappointed that first tank of gas yielded only 20 mpg. However, next two were just over 24 mpg. The car performed as expected - a great ride. Did encounter some very bad conditions crossing the mountains in W. Virginia. Heavy snow and ice. Handling was no problem! Spent consdierable time in the snow-covered left hand lane as the other lane was travelling at 25 mph. While appropriate for the locals, it was alittle slow for a native Michigander.
On the return trip, temp was around 60 and I decided to take a shortcut, using Rte. 311 from Salem, VA to White Sulphur Springs, W. VA., a beautiful two lane drive going over the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The car was a true joy as the curves and hills didn't even make it work hard. Was glad to have the manual transmission as it let me choose my gears for accelerating and braking. In my Explorer, it would have been a chore. In the LS, it was a blast.
A year into my lease, I'm still infatuated with this car.
I am victor and I just turned 26 on the 24th and also live in the BIG D. I took delivery of my Silver LS on the 23rd one year ago. It has been a pleasure to drive. Unfortunately I have had alot of little annoyances with trim but other than that great car. You need to go to the LLSOC site and that will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the LS.
Now Regarding Speakers. I have given this some thought but I would personally have installed some Clarion Pro Audio 5X7 up front and a pair in the back doors. Regarding the Rear Deck, if you cut the Aluminum you can place to 8 two 10 inch free airs, and an Amp in the Middle of the Deck.
Bonuses... tweeters in the rear pillars, A component set up front instead of front 5X7. Also for Multimedia go with an Alpine AVA-1505 I believe Tuner/TV Monitor up front, the DVD Player add on, and two Alpine TV Monitors one for each seatback headrest display. Another amp and a CD Changer couldn't hurt. By the Way I have seen the AVA-1505 installed in a Cutlass supreme. It is nice! I was watching Saving Private Ryan. Wow the Subs made the artillery blasts sound unreal! By the way MTX Thunder (Not Road Thunder line (Economy)), Orion, Phoenix Gold are great amps. I have had two MTX Thunder Amps in my Capri for 5 years with no problems. Still gowing strong!
I would like to do this for my LS but, I have been there done that, and I am waiting for the LS 6 Speed Manual, In which case I will trade in my current one, and also you would be looking at a 5K+ sound system..
Quite a few years ago, my Uncle introduced me to a polish, that I've only been able to find at the "Pharmor" drug stores. It is called Astro Shields and it comes in Liquid form, in a can. The can is yellow.
I've found that this stuff easily takes off tar and bugs/dirt and leaves your finish beading in the rain for a long time. It is just a heck of a lot more simple than the Zaino "12-step" (or whatever) program... although I probably will try the Zaino again this spring... since I have it!
The Zaino finish just doesn't seem to last like the Astro Shields does.
I looked on the internet, and there is a Pharmor in Ashland, KY... whether they have it or not is another question...
I will check into finding some Astro Shields and give it a try. As to Zaino's "12 step" (actually 6 step) process: that is only the initial application and I really enjoyed doing it! The follow up applications take about 10 minutes total and it is the easiest "wax" to remove that I have any experience with. But, if there is something better . . .
The pedal may not be as stiff as other makes, but I have nothing bad to say about the LS brakes. On the autocross course, I found the brakes very forgiving and easy to control - in fact, I was surprised at how late and hard I could brake approaching a corner and not get cones wedged under the nose. The ABS is smoother than most cars I have driven and the understeer tendency is easily offset with the gas pedal ;-D
OK, a little C240 comparison coming - scroll if you don't care. The new C (maybe all MBs for all I know) has an interesting feature designed to improve panic stops. I have activated it twice and still am undecided if I like it. It goes something like this: when the system detects a panic stop, the ABS applies 100% brakes until you let up on the pedal. The theory is that many people unconciously let off in the midst of a panic stop and plow right into something. In my first experience I can relate sort of - a guy just waited until I was 50 ft from an intersection and began to pull out so I nailed the brakes. As he again slowed, I let up a little but then he rolled out again. By the time I could let go the first F word, I was almost stopped because the system kept the brakes on until I completely let up and steered around the bozo. Anyway - was or is something like this considered for the LS? Even after two tries, I am still undecided if I like it or not. In panics, I usually have slow-motion syndrome and have no problem keeping control. So having brakes on full like that feels well sorta weird but it worked. Thoughts?
I have been reading a lot about the sound systems in the LS. When I get mine and don't like what is on the sports performance package...is there a reccomendation that my ford dealer can install on-site before I pick-up and sign away. My needs are fairly simple...I like a deep woffer(sp?)base sound with a high volume that won't rip the speakers up after hearing one of those favorite tunes that I can't resist to crank up all the way! I don't have time or patience to go to a third party audio house, and since it will be leased I prefer to use what ford has on site...any reccomendations
I'd love to try the MB brake assist technology. Reviews I've read have been positive and MB's research seems conclusive that they can be lifesaving due to the way people brake, even with ABS.
The lack of some of the more advanced safety features on the LS is becoming an issue. No rear airbags, no curtain airbags, no pretensioners & force limiters for all seatbelts, and no brake assist. And they deleted the adjustable rear headrests in the LS8? If a VW Passat, Audi A4, Volvo S60, etc. can have some of these and a MB C240 or BMW 3 Series have nearly all, then an LS8 pushing $40,000 needs these things as standard.
My wife is already leaning toward MB C-Class in order to get 'em. We've got small kids.
Comments
Brian
Brian
On the way to the chapel, I had my daughter, and her bridesmaid in the back of my LS plus my wife (fancy doooo and all) in the front with me. I'm not sure the rear doors on the LS were ever designed to accomodate the stuffing of one very nervous bride-to-be complete with flowing dress into the back seat. Even with my wife's seat all the forward, it was a tight fit to keep from producing any more wrinkles than we had to. We were quite a sight I must say though...
However, my new son-in-law decided to rent a Town Car for the ride from the chapel to the reception and this is where the Town Car really earns its strips in my opinion. There was no problem with room in the back seat of that thing. Even with my son-in-law at 6' 2" and 275 pounds!
So the next time you are tempted to chuckle at the TC as a rolling coffin, remember their size, ride and reputation are appreciated some times -- even by the likes of lead-foot Kinny here:-) And my daughter got quite a charge out the fact that she rode to the wedding in one Lincoln and back in another.
Brian
What was odd about these cars is that they didn't have a build date on the window sticker. There was text in the bottom right-hand box, but instead of a date there was a code of some sort. I also saw a Sport that had a build date of 01 29 01 shown, and it did NOT have the CD discount. I assume this means that the cars with the discount were built in February. There were no V8s with recent build dates--this dealer usually has 40-50 LSs, but his stock has dwindled to about 20-25.
I also saw several Navigators with February build dates that had a similar CD discount.
I may be wrong about this, but I believe that window stickers, at least in the US, must be supplied by the factory. I also believe that any equipment discount offered by the manufacturer to the end customer must be shown on the sticker.
If it's a dealer incentive or a rebate in lieu of low-interest financing, it won't obviously appear on the sticker.
George: If the free CD deal applied to your car, it would've been on the window sticker. I assume it didn't because yours was built in January; or, perhaps it doesn't apply to manuals.
Frustrating, I know, but sometimes we're just victimized by bad timing. For example, the polished wheels on non-Sport cars, which used to be a $405 option, are no-charge on cars built after mid-December. This is the sort of thing that can be really irritating to those of us who keep up with the details, but most people are not likely to even notice it.
Kinny: Let me add my congratulations on your daughter's wedding! I agree w/your assessment of the Town Car; my mother has one, and it's very comfortable. I wouldn't want it as a daily driver, but it's quite nice in the right situation.
>Congratulations on the wedding of your daughter!
Thank you!
>You sound like a proud dad!
Yes, when we're talking about minor imperfections on our cars, or small problems at a dealership, or even hassles at work, it is easy to forget the really important things in life. Am I a proud dad? You bet!
LS's come and go, but our kids are forever!
--Kinny
kinny: A hardy congratulations from the ezaircon4jc clan!! We have a few years as our daughter is "only" 10!
azlels: Welcome to the rabid LS club! I've got nearly 12k on my '00 V6 non-sport and the driving just keeps on getting better! The "lack" of storage has actually not been near the issue I thought it would. I already took care of the lack of a second power outlet. Enjoy!
Dick
Hope this helps. If you need any more info, feel free to send an e-mail to me.
Michael.
Going sometime today - can't wait!!!
'01 V8, sport package, moonroof, advance trac, heated seats, autumn red, parchment. Yippee!
There's also a sticker affixed (on the LS) to the inner part of the driver's door opening below the A-pillar that has a month-year date on it, but I'm not sure about the significance of this date. This sticker has such things as tire and axle codes, weights, etc. along with a bar code.
So, johnny, it would seem I should qualify for a free CD changer whether they started it in Jan or Feb, eh? My sticker has no indication of anything deducted for that. (In fact, all the numbers are added, none subtracted :>)
Perhaps I should make a call?
George
Read the manual ASAP. Every time I thumb through it I find something new.
Enjoy your trip to South Jersey tomorrow.
Good Luck, Tom....
PS, I would check into the discount with your dealers. This might be time for a call to Jim Rogers.
The dealer was great. Met the sales mgr again and he took an interest in my experience of picking up the car and getting all the paperwork done.
Business mgr was efficient in getting the paperwork completed and only tried selling me one thing. Something about not having to pay excess wear and tear. Wasn't really paying attention since I never have to pay wear and tear and I didn't want it. No pressure to do it - he just said OK.
Salesman took me to the service dept to introduce me to the service mgr and I got his card. They scheduled a first service visit for May, but I'm sure it was only a formality and I will not be suing that date. But I could be wrong.
Went to get the car and they were still detailing it. Perfectly washed with a full tank of gas.
Couldn't have had a better experience. Montclair Lincoln Mercury is the dealer.
Have two other cars coming off lease in the next couple of months (business partners) and will be going back there without a doubt. One partner drives Volvos and they happen to have a related Volvo dealership. Sales mgr said to give him a call with the salesman's name and he will arrange the deal.
From my first experience and first price to my return to negotiate a better price I couldn't have asked for more in terms of service, willingness to negotiate, etc. Hope the service is just as good.
He said that he, along with the other instructors, were quite surprised at how well this four-door luxury sedan handled itself in the autocross. The pro drivers took turns going through the course with the LS cars and timing themselves against the course top qualifying time, which was against a Corvette. While they didn't expect to beat the time of this sports car, they were very surprised that they were able to come, in his words, "pretty damn close". He said that the handling of this car was just as good as a M3/M5 and much better than a 5 series.
Just thought you'd like to know the opinion of someone who instructs people on high-performance driving on a daily basis.
Brian
Any thoughts appreciated.
You should be very pleased that your dealer experience was as good as it was. Good to know that there's an NJ dealer who is doing this well.
Don't forget to check out the LLSOC site and sign up on the owner's registry so that Tom and I will no longer be the lone NJ owners.
I regulary commute between Whippany and Clifton. What color is your new baby? Maybe we'll see each other sometime on Rt 3.
Joe
will head on over to the llsoc site and sign up. Have been there but not signed in.
Jaime
Jaime, just relax and enjoy the ride.
Tom....
Tom....
Hope this helps. The LS is a very balanced and responsive car. I love mine.
I started using Leather Cleaner and Conditioner from Zaino Bros. (I know... but I haven't joined the cult, yet.) I have used the cleaner & conditioner about once a month for the past year of ownership... (Happy LS Anniversary to me - one year ago today, I brought my baby home.)
Anyway, it honestly smells like a brand new car inside and with 14,000 miles, I believe it has a lot to do with keeping it clean and keeping the seats treated.
The 92 Continental that I bought had 130,000 miles on it, and I don't think the leather was EVER cleaned/conditioned, but after scraping all of the crap out of the cracks and turning a bucket of clean water brown, I was able to restore the seats pretty well with the Zaino products.
You have to go to their website http://www.zainobros.com and print out an order form.
I'm not so sold on their car polish products. They're good, but not the best.
The SST software in all the 2001 cars is the same. The TSB that is out does not change the SST shifts in a 2001 at all. They already have the latest.
Mark
I must admit though, my first ever FWD commuter car (1982 Chevy Citation- I know, I know) got me home in a major snowstorm the first winter I owned it in about 2 hours, when some co-workers didn't get home 'til 9 that night. I remember driving up the side of the highway in the tracks of a Jeep Wrangler while the roadway was completely blocked with cars.
Now, fast forward to the LS. This has been a pretty bad winter around here compared to the last few. The LS is particularly well-balanced. Having just about 50/50 weight balance with the V6 really helps. The traction control works well as long as the road is flat. I thought it actually worked better on ice than snow. I must say though, that I have gotten stuck a number of times this winter. I was able to extricate myself once by disabling TC and rocking the car, as the OM recommends. One other time, I had to be pushed out by my cousin, whose house I got stuck in front of, even with using SST for 3rd gear start. I still would still like to have the option of anti-slip in conjunction with TC. IMO, this would make a more effective winter driving combo. All in all, however, the LS is still the most confidence-inspiring car I have driven in foul weather-rain or snow.
Congrats to the new LS owners. Welcome to the fold. It's especially good to see some more owners from the East coast (I'm on LI). Maybe we can get together some time.
Congrats also to kinny on your new "son." I can only wish you two the kind of relationship my late father-in-law and I had. Still miss him after 15 years.
Art
Enjoy.
Scott
I am aware of the fact that the SST software on all 2001's is the same. What I meant to get across was that my 2000 LS before the Re-flash was not so forgiving or smooth for that matter. Now I find it smooth shifting and a joy to use. Thanks for your ongoing efforts to Improve the LS transmission.
Tom......
Thanks, Michael
I am Don, living in Dallas, Texas. I am 27, and I just purchased my first luxury vehicle. It's a pearl blue LS V-8 sport with medium graphite interior. I haven't actually picked the car up yet - tomorrow is the big day. So, I can't wait to officially join the owner's club soon.
One of the first things I plan to do is upgrade the horrible speakers in my new car. I am not looking for a bass-thumpin' pimp mobile type system. What I want is a pretty powerful audio experience that sounds really clean when I turn it up good and loud.
I assume many of you have also upgraded the sound system. Any advice? I am particularly interested as to whether you think the Alpine deck is a solid deck that is simply wired to sub-par speakers, or whether I should replace the deck. My current plan is to keep the deck, put new JVC speakers all around, plus install an amp and a sub. Any opinions?
This looks like a great message board with lots of very active participants. So, I am really glad to be a part of this little corner of cyberspace. Any audio advice will be appreciated.
-Don in Dallas
I changed out my front speakers with Polk dX7 and the rear with Infinity Reference 5752cf. I have the base 4 speaker system and this was a vast improvment! I'm 44 and this set-up is fine with me. I can still crank up enough volume to give myself a headache! Someone, I can't remember who, has a system like you described. Check out www.llsoc.com and under the registry you may find out who upgraded their system like you suggested.
Again, WELCOME!
Michael
Possibly a former cult member,
Jim.
The transmission has a speed sensor on the input shaft and on the output shaft. There is one in the middle, too, but that one is not used for adaptive.
The software can read the time a shift takes by looking at the speed sensors. The transmission ratio can be calculated by dividing the input speed by the output speed. All you need to do is measure how long the ratio change takes.
If the ratio change takes longer than it should, next time the software will ask for more pressure to make that shift. If it takes less time than is should there will be less pressure for the next one of those shifts.
Mark
Just a suggestion...enjoy your LS. After 28,000 miles and 14 months, I can assure you, that this is one serious performance sedan thats well thought out and put together.
I have ALWAYS performed major upgrades to my sound systems in the past, with subs, amps, component speakers in the doors, etc. (I am sure my hearing has deteriorated becuase of it as well.) One thing that happens is that once you replace speakers with a high quality type, you usually don't have enough power from your deck to drive them to their best output. You then end up putting an amp in to boost the speakers to their best range. Then, just a little more base would be good, so in goes an 8" to 10" sub and another amp.
At the end of the day, what you really have to decide is what floats your boat. If you want to upgrade, start with the front door speakers. If your happy with that, great. If you need more, dig out the plastic 'cuase it can get spendy.
While it is in the shop, I am having the radio looked at as to why it stays on when the key is removed AND AFTER the door is open. Also having the cruise control looked at becuase it won't step up and down. I will post a follow up message with the repairs done in case anyone else suffers from the same symptoms.
BTW, the Taurus loaner I have for the day really makes me appreciate the drive and quality of my LS. But it seems to be pretty snappy out of the gates!
By the way, just returned from a quick trip from Evansville, IN to Bedford, VA via I-64. Started with about 8,800 miles on odometer. Was disappointed that first tank of gas yielded only 20 mpg. However, next two were just over 24 mpg. The car performed as expected - a great ride. Did encounter some very bad conditions crossing the mountains in W. Virginia. Heavy snow and ice. Handling was no problem! Spent consdierable time in the snow-covered left hand lane as the other lane was travelling at 25 mph. While appropriate for the locals, it was alittle slow for a native Michigander.
On the return trip, temp was around 60 and I decided to take a shortcut, using Rte. 311 from Salem, VA to White Sulphur Springs, W. VA., a beautiful two lane drive going over the top of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The car was a true joy as the curves and hills didn't even make it work hard. Was glad to have the manual transmission as it let me choose my gears for accelerating and braking. In my Explorer, it would have been a chore. In the LS, it was a blast.
A year into my lease, I'm still infatuated with this car.
I am victor and I just turned 26 on the 24th and also live in the BIG D. I took delivery of my Silver LS on the 23rd one year ago. It has been a pleasure to drive. Unfortunately I have had alot of little annoyances with trim but other than that great car. You need to go to the LLSOC site and that will tell you everything you ever wanted to know about the LS.
Now Regarding Speakers. I have given this some thought but I would personally have installed some Clarion Pro Audio 5X7 up front and a pair in the back doors. Regarding the Rear Deck, if you cut the Aluminum you can place to 8 two 10 inch free airs, and an Amp in the Middle of the Deck.
Bonuses... tweeters in the rear pillars, A component set up front instead of front 5X7. Also for Multimedia go with an Alpine AVA-1505 I believe Tuner/TV Monitor up front, the DVD Player add on, and two Alpine TV Monitors one for each seatback headrest display. Another amp and a CD Changer couldn't hurt. By the Way I have seen the AVA-1505 installed in a Cutlass supreme. It is nice! I was watching Saving Private Ryan. Wow the Subs made the artillery blasts sound unreal! By the way MTX Thunder (Not Road Thunder line (Economy)), Orion, Phoenix Gold are great amps. I have had two MTX Thunder Amps in my Capri for 5 years with no problems. Still gowing strong!
I would like to do this for my LS but, I have been there done that, and I am waiting for the LS 6 Speed Manual, In which case I will trade in my current one, and also you would be looking at a 5K+ sound system..
Regards,
Airwolf1000
I've found that this stuff easily takes off tar and bugs/dirt and leaves your finish beading in the rain for a long time. It is just a heck of a lot more simple than the Zaino "12-step" (or whatever) program... although I probably will try the Zaino again this spring... since I have it!
The Zaino finish just doesn't seem to last like the Astro Shields does.
I looked on the internet, and there is a Pharmor in Ashland, KY... whether they have it or not is another question...
Has anyone else used this product?
Bill
The lack of some of the more advanced safety features on the LS is becoming an issue. No rear airbags, no curtain airbags, no pretensioners & force limiters for all seatbelts, and no brake assist. And they deleted the adjustable rear headrests in the LS8? If a VW Passat, Audi A4, Volvo S60, etc. can have some of these and a MB C240 or BMW 3 Series have nearly all, then an LS8 pushing $40,000 needs these things as standard.
My wife is already leaning toward MB C-Class in order to get 'em. We've got small kids.