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Ford Mustang (2004 and earlier)

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Comments

  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    I've always wondered about this, as I am a fairly tame driver. How hard on a car is it to drive it fast, revving it out, quick shifts, hard acceleration? I don't mean is burning the tires hard on the rubber, but what about engine life and health, transmission and clutch life, etc?
  • dad4kidzdad4kidz Member Posts: 3
    great thread, i'm looking at a red 2002 mustang convertible 6cyl, has all options, leather, power seat, i can add nice rims later, it has 5k miles and i can purchase for 15k... do i buy? thanks for your responses...
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    Price sounds about right, maybe even low (based on what I see where I live)...sounds like a good deal. If it's in good shape (i.e. if those 5k miles were done right), and not a rental car, I'd say snap it up. BTW what wheels does it have on it now? The bright aluminum 5-spoke ones with the exposed lugs, right? I've always thought those look good, and very appropriate to the car. I'd say keep the wheels, just get better tires. -John
  • gt4megt4me Member Posts: 58
    with reference to the V6 Price. Pick that thing up man!

    With regards to driving a car hard...As long as you know HOW to drive a car and it's done in a safe place (track, course, ect) under the right conditions, the only thing you'll have to worry about replacing are tires and brake pads. When driven correctly (which I've yet to master myself) and smoothly, the car should not take any kind of abuse. A good driver is a smooth driver. You shouldn't feel anything but acceleration and braking. Never should shifting or clutching be jumpy.
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    I checked out the Bullit exhaust sound track on MustangExhaust.com and it sounds great. I have just picked up a new 02 Gt and I'd really like to install this system. I've been to the local ford dealer and these pipes and mufflers are available but his information resources seem to be limited. Please help? Will this system bolt on to the H pipe the same as the original system without modifications, will it be a suitable installation with the stock 4.6L V8,(don't want to do any other mods right now) and will it effect the emisson standards. thanks
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    on Mustangexhaust.com and I agree it sounds great. However, the Mustang specialists in town here have said that in reality the Bullitt exhaust does not sound that much better or different than other aftermarket exhausts. For this reason, I am considering an X-pipe with some type of turbo syle mufflers instead of just adding the Bullitt mufflers to the existing exhaust. I understand that the X-exhaust system raises the perfomance and horsepower of the car significantly, and it should sound good too. Also, I understand it is high quality, stainless steel or chrome or something and should last as long as the car. Total cost on the system including X-exhaust and mufflers should be about $600. I don't have the answers and am still learning, I love the Bullitt exhaust sound in the movie but I believe I will probably end up going with the X-exhaust and flowmasters or something similar. Good luck.
  • demonspeeddemonspeed Member Posts: 75
    Bassani makes the best quality x-pipes. Dr. Gas is another reputable company. I have a BBK x-pipe on my 93 GT and I love it. I am running a flowmaster catback with 2 chamber mufflers and it's definetly a great sound w/o being obnoxious. Stangnet.com should be all of your best friends!
  • cuteeric17cuteeric17 Member Posts: 43
    I was thinking of getting an '03 Mustang next year, should I wait?
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    so if you like the design, you should go for it. I am a little concerned, often as not they mess the cars up as they "evolve". Look at the Camaro, the Z cars, etc. Maybe the price will go up. Also, it normally takes several years for a manufacturer to get a new model "right". Look at how the current generation kept getting better in terms of looks and performance, and have peaked with the 02-03's. Yes, I am prejudiced.
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    Has anyone gotten the $300 interior upgrade option from the factory? I was just wondering what you thought of it.
  • gt4megt4me Member Posts: 58
    is the $300 interior upgrade?
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    I'm with 'Flag on this one. Also, it might depend on what you want out of your Mustang. The new one will undoubtably have better performance, handle better (standard IRS?) and probably continue the retro look in some fashion. It'll be a great car that will keep the Mustang tradition going strong; I can't wait to see it.

    But I love my 2002 GT because it is such a dinosaur: the live rear axle, the truck-like shifting, the musclecar, "floaty" feel to the handling...not to mention that pull-out light switch! But I admit to being in the minority as an enthusiast who values feel/driving experience over total performance. I bet the new Mustang "upgrades" a lot of things I like about mine; I'm glad I got this model while I could. An odd p.o.v. perhaps, but not totally unreasonable I think.
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    I think he means the package that gives you the Bullitt edition shiny things (shift bezel and knob, pedals, etc.) It's a 2003 option, right?
  • gasguzzler007gasguzzler007 Member Posts: 70
    DOnt buy it. Get a GT. You will never have as much fun in a V6. Its a fact. V8 is the ONLY way to go. The V6s are slow and not very fun to drive. And if its an auto, forget about it...
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    a 2003 GT, but I think there is an interior option available, which can be installed by the dealer, it looks like it might really improve the look of the interior, that is what I was inquiring about.
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    There is an interior trim that has four parts. Guage cluster, door trim around power windows and locks and a piece that surrounds the heater control and radio. It comes in wood grain (ugh), brushed aluminum and carbon fiber. I will probably opt for the carbon fiber as the interior needs something, I think. Aluminum may be a little to much. Check out the Bullit pedal accessories. I just put some on and they look great.
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    Did you get the Bullitt pedal accessories from the Ford dealer? I heard that they were hard to install, were there any problems? What about cost? I have seen pictures, they look great!
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    I found a Ford Accessory parts catalogue on the internet (that the local Ford Dealer didn't even have) and found the part number for the bullit pedals directly from ford. The part #9G757 is for the gas pedal assembly which is held on by two small bolts and the brake and clutch pedal covers. The cost was $153.00 (Cdn). Ford didn't offer the Bullit foot rest pedal with this kit. I saw on CaliforniaMustang.com that they have a kit that looks exactly the same but has the four pieces for $80.00 (US). They do look sharp!
  • gt4megt4me Member Posts: 58
    the burled walnut dash with faux cheeta seats. See if you can find that one in your Ford Catalogue :-)

    Seriously...would be cool if they had a few more options. I'd pay another 2-3 Grand for a sweet interior. Would you?
  • cuteeric17cuteeric17 Member Posts: 43
    Thanks for the info guys. I guess if everything goes well, I can go ahead and get that '03 sometime next year, and if I like the '04 model, maybe I could do a trade in, eh?
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    Didn't see anything that you are looking for in the information that I have. I was in a Canadian Tire Store (PeP Boys) one day, they have those kinds of things and I am sure they would probably be a lot cheaper...
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    Re the "Mustang Cheeta" edition...maybe Ford will just re-badge leftover Mercury Cougars: "Ford presents the new, limited edition Ford Mustang Cheeta. No, that's not a cougar head badge; it's a cheeta!"

    evendal, what's the website for that internet Ford parts/accessories catalog that you mention? Thanks! -John
  • boggseboggse Member Posts: 1,048
    My mom has a 95 GT. I was thinking about getting her a set of shiny, new valve covers for Christmas. I was looking at what Ford Racing carries, but I cannot figure out what will work on her engine. I know it is a 302, but beyond that, I am clueless. Can anyone tell me what will fit? Part numbers or websites would be very helpful. TIA!
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    Web site is www.fordaccessories.com . You will have to click through on ford accessory titles until you get to the point where you can download the ford accessories cagalogue on the Acobat Reader. There are some truck and other ford acessories in these pages along with the mustang stuff. Hope this helps.
  • fdthirdfdthird Member Posts: 352
    Buy the V/6...if your ego can take it it's a fine car with lots of power. If not, buy the V/8!
  • demonspeeddemonspeed Member Posts: 75
    m-6582-b303 Chrome Stamped Steel w/Ford Motorsport Logo; smooth
    m-6582-a302 Polished Aluminum w/Ford Motorsport Logo; rippled
    m-6582-f301 Polished Aluminum "Mustang Powered By Ford"; rippled

    Those are the basic ones... there are more, but you should try and find a Ford Motorsport Cataloge... that's what i'm looking at right now
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    metal ball, it comes standard on the Mach 1, I think. Great website (Fordaccessories.com).
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    the 2003 model is about as perfect as you can ask for in the price range - I'd pick it up right away. I don't think you'll regret it. I have high hopes for the 2004 new design; but history has taught us that great things do not last forever. I would strike while the iron is hot.
  • gasguzzler007gasguzzler007 Member Posts: 70
    I suggest you check out www.corral.net and join the forums. There is so much information floating around there that you will have hours of reading to do. That is where all ford owners come together. I made the mistake of selling my 96 GT but will be looking for another mustang soon. V8 is the only way to go. You got to love the torque. :)
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    What exhaust do you recommend if I want one that will last as long as possible? Borla? Are there any others? X-pipe or H-pipe? Looking for an exhaust that will give the old musclecar sound but also last. Are most of the aftermarket exhausts stainless steel or chrome?
  • pixiepiepixiepie Member Posts: 1
    I have to admit I am curious to see what's in store for 2004 or 2005, but I'm not sure I'll rush out to get it.. I'd love to see the styling give a nod to the 60's Mustangs on the 2005. I do hope if Ford chooses to do so that they do not make the Mustang a 40K + car like the retro T-Bird. However, I too love my 2002 'Stang, and won't give her up too easily.. I made the jump from an '86 GT to the '02 GT Premium, and while I love my '02, I do miss the "sound" of my '86. Wait and see is all I can say..
  • fuzzywuzzyfuzzywuzzy Member Posts: 958
    New to this board, but I'm a member of other boards. A family member just bought a yellow 2002 Mustang. It's brand new, The V6 model with the auto.(man is it slow!) Anyway it only has 290 miles on it, & already it has a "service engine soon" light that won't go off. It's being dropped off to the dealer in the next few days. I already checked the gas cap, & it's fine. Any ideas on what's causing it?

    BTW-here a few pics of it..

    http://community.webshots.com/album/53605568ggDKJZ
  • evendalevendal Member Posts: 7
    Has anyone installed a Mac Stainless Steel Flow path muffler to their existing stock 2 1/4" exhaust system? How does it sound? Is there any loss in power? I want to get better than stock sound out of my GT but I hate to tear-up and get rid of my factory exhaust and tips. I am not really looking for any more power at this time, just a nicer sound. I checked out the Mac Cat Back system but I hear that it starts to rust out quickly and you are always having to clean the chrome tips. Comments!
    Thanks
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    New Mustang owners are going to be looking to get the right oil and oil change procedures. My question is what are your experiences with Lucas oil stabilizer? It is an oil additive that supposedly increases the efficacy of your oil and also protects against cold starts. I am all for this - does this stuff work?

    (Lucas oil has an incredible display, there are two plastic gears that you turn. One set has Lucas oil stabilizer added, one is plain oil. The one with the Lucas oil stablilizer turns much easier and smoother. If you haven't seen this display you should check it out! It makes you think.)
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    Hello fellow proud Mustang owners,I'm new to the sight but after reading all your praises of the Legendary Stang I could not take it anymore i just picked up (11/01/02) a True Blue 2003gt premium pkg. with interior upgrade. You guys were so right when you said Ford got it right!I have only 75 miles after 2 days,and i'm Hooked already! I came from a couple of past German cars. While ford still cant get the interior even close to my 2001 jetta glx (i just traded for the G.T.) they got most everything else real close.The handling is a pleasant surprise so far. How much $ for the mentioned Exhaust upgrades and which one has the deep throaty sound (but not to loud). Also if you upgrade the Exaust and do a chip ,and K.N. filter ,how much H.P. gain would be realized.
  • revdrluvrevdrluv Member Posts: 417
    Expect Ford interiors to change dramatically in the next few years. All their new european models are getting highly praised for their fit and finish.
  • gt4megt4me Member Posts: 58
    of seeing links to pics of the Euro Ford interiors?
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    Midlifer, we told you so! The exhaust question is much debated as to which is best, but most I have spoken with eventually have it done. I know one common choice is Flowmasters with an X-exhaust. I understand this raises your output about 25hp. I have done the K&N filter, and am very happy with that. I understand a chip does not do much on its own, but is useful sometimes in conjuntion with other mods.
  • revdrluvrevdrluv Member Posts: 417
    Ford Mondeo (Hard to see but materials are said to be an par with Passat) http://www.4car.co.uk/jsp/main.jsp?lnk=231_2&zoom=ftmonint.jpg


    Ford Fiesta (Not Veedub quality but close) http://www.4car.co.uk/jsp/main.jsp?lnk=231_2&zoom=rt02fiestaint.jpg


    Mazda6 (Not a Ford but in the bloodline and materials close to VW quality) http://www.4car.co.uk/jsp/main.jsp?lnk=231_2&zoom=rtmazda65.jpg

  • revdrluvrevdrluv Member Posts: 417
    And here are some picks (if you haven't seen them already) of what some think is the next mustang interior.


    http://bradbarnett.net/mustangs/

    concept/s197/Interior5.jpg


    http://bradbarnett.net/mustangs/

    concept/s197/Interior6.jpg

  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    Midlifer, you are the first person I heard who has it, does it include the steel or aluminum shifter handle? Was it installed by the dealer or did it come from the factory?

    That BradBarnett is an excellent website!
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    I think i will take your advice and get the K&N filter this week,did you get that cold air intake setup as well? $140.00 As far as the Exhaust goes i hear the Bisselli? is the best,but $$650.00 I hear the flowmasters are real loud?? and don't compare in quality? any experience with either? i don't mind spending the cash,but not if i don't need to. I will take your advice and stay away from the chip for now. I hear people say the stock Exhaust is Lame,but i got to tell you coming from 10 years of V.W.s and Expeditions,and a 2000 Maxima SE this thing sounds like a Nascar to me!!
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    It was on it from the factory. The pedals are great! real grippy on the feet, and it looks pretty hot to,the center console looks great also but $260.00 shifter looks like all the rest but it says on option list "Leather shifter" as though the others are not? I did not notice the $$ due to the great deal i got on the car 21,700.00 sticker was 25,575.00 with upgrade. but if i was going to spend $260.00 i don't think it would be at the top of the list. I want a Mach 1 shift knob,how much$.
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    The Aluminum shifter? possible that someone swiped it at dealership and they replaced it with regular one? If so i will be going back for it!!! That might be why i did not think it was worth $ no shifter?
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    Anyone have a clue? I was told by a Manager at Ford, who has a race team running 1/4mile 8.5s...55 year old ford guy swears that all motors are broken in on a stand in Dearborn,and from his experience after the rings seat he says let it rip? I've heard from outher engine builders, Baby now ,Baby for life? Anyone else
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    I kept it under 3000 rpms, no hard starts, varied speeds for the first 1000 miles. Then started opening it up more and more/pushing it harder and harder. I think (though not a car expert in the least) that gentle break-in, followed by using more and more of the power (up to and inc. redlining it) helps "season" the engine for all sorts of driving conditions. But I really have nothing to back up this view, other than it seeming logical to me.

    And Ford itself is of little help; I even called the tech line and they ended up reading the (unhelpful) sentence in the owner's manual to me...

    -John
  • americanflagamericanflag Member Posts: 400
    The interior group has got to be a nice touch no matter what though. Worst case you can purchase it aftermarket from Ford and have the dealer install it. You've got the shifter bezel with the interior upgrade so it should match. No matter what you are way ahead of the game.

    I'm not sure about getting the entire intake from K&N versus just the filter and removing the silencer. I've been wondering about that, and am going to send K&N an email on it. Anybody have experience with the K&N intakes?

    As for break-in, I would follow John's example to be on the safe side. The main thing I would recommend is to change the oil at 500 miles, to get rid of all the new engine particles in the oil. I made the mistake of waiting till 1500 miles, I would have preferred to have changed it at 500. But I admit I am a bit of a hypochondriac about my GT, it is love afterall...
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    That is actually what i have been doing,wind it up to 3000 steady and then let it back down slowly (5spd. of course),i will change the oil this weekend currently has 180 miles. My dad always broke in his motors (in his muscle car day) just as john has said. Better safe than burning oil...But it is so hard not to hammer it,there sounds like there is a monster under that hood Scoop that wants out!!!
  • midlifermidlifer Member Posts: 21
    Do you think they owe me one? i will call the dealer tommorrow and play dumb and ask if it comes with the upgrade.
  • john_324john_324 Member Posts: 974
    I'd be forward with the dealer and tell them that there seems to be a problem with the interior package that you ordered, that there's no aluminum shifter knob. Probably just an oversight, but I'm sure they'll make it right. After all, you DID pay for it.

    Re the break-in, I know what you mean...it was soo hard not to drop the hammer on the car during the break-in period. But I persevered, and that first burnout past 3K was soo worth the wait (the adolescent thrills of owning a Mustang are not to be understated). Nice color BTW...I have the same.

    -John
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