Cougar Support Group - General Maintenance

stageleft · August 2000

Probably because owner's manuals are not written with enthusiasts in mind. They write for the lowest common denomonator: The "point A to point B"ers ...

badulah · August 2000

Yeah but those people usually drive civics.

fredly · August 2000

LOL

camelard · August 2000

I am going to assume that doing the oil change now won't do any harm whereas not doing it might.

blane · August 2000

If you check the owner's manuals of virtually ALL modern cars you will find that the manufacturers do not specify an early oil change after the initial engine break-in period. That initial early oil change made sense twenty years ago when engine design and manufacturing weren't computer controlled and internal tolerances and materials were somewhat more primitive than in today's engines.

fredly:

That "1,000 mile" FMC e-mail that you received was probably one employee's opinion, not FMC's position. I'll save my time and money and follow manufacturers' published schedules. I've put lots of miles on lots of cars and have never experienced any oil-related problems following the book.

camelard:

Clearly, more frequent oil changes won't do any mechanical harm. But don't worry yourself about unneccessary maintenance.

spartan93 · August 2000

If you follow the manufacturer's recommendations, you're covered by the warranty should anything go wrong (don't forget to keep your receipts). If it gives you piece of mind to change in a shorter interval, it is probably worth the 20 or so bucks to just be done with it.

Granted that they are not looking at the "break in" period, it is becoming widely accepted that the oil change interval is well beyond the Jiffy Lubes of the world's 3k as well as outside that of even the manufacturers' 5k interval, regardless of lubricant type. I have been told by those connected to the industry that the manufacturers' intervals will be going up significantly in the near future (using synthetics, naturally).

In short, balance your wallet, manufacturer's maintenance schedule, conscience and wealth of information available to you to make the decision that is best for you and your vehicle. You would go nuts trying to find the "right answer".

fredly · August 2000

Whether the 1000 mile oil change was Right or Wrong, I don't feel I wasted $20.
"Hell I just bought a ~18K car, I'm gonna take care of it whats 20$ for a little preventative
maintenence(even if its not recommended)"

badulah · August 2000

better to spend $20 now, than a few hundred/thousand later on.

Better safe than sorry (IMHO)

badulah · August 2000

I got my cat back from the dealership last night with no problems. They reprogrammed the computer in order to correct the stalling problem. I wonder why they had to reprogram it? I also wonder if they reprogrammed it with an updated program.

gustafsc · August 2000

Probably V2000.98.22/sub84-33-badulah:nostall

Skip G.

stageleft · August 2000

LOL!

badulah · August 2000

LOL!

I actually got a curtsey call from the service department last night. They wanted to know how the V2000.98.22/sub84-33-badulah:nostall software was working.

stageleft · August 2000

And they bowed?

badulah · August 2000

I told them it was working fine, but the next time I come in for service I want them to reprogram the computer with
V2000.98.22/sub84-33-badulah:goreallyfrigginfast 4.0 software.

fish8 · August 2000

LOL LOL LOL

gustafsc · August 2000

LOL LOL ;-)

Bad:

After you've done the Beta Testing of this new software, let us know how it works and make it available tothe rest of us!

Skip G.

badulah · August 2000

I will post my review on the CSG web page, along with the install guide.

>;-}

ccavsman · August 2000

Hey there, I've pretty much read all the postings
that are available in Edmunds about the cougar so im familiar with everyone.. Hi! - I just got the 2000 V6 and love it! Just wanted to check in, say hey - and be in touch!

Scott

camelard · August 2000

Welcome. Did you get the MTX or ATX?

johnluciano · August 2000

Hi Gang! I am new to the room as well as a new 2000 Cougar owner and I have a question about the 5-Speed Manual Gearbox. I have the I-4 model (don't laugh, y'all) and is it me, or does it shift in a very sloppy fashion? PS, I read in the TSB's that there was something to correct the sloppy shifting. Does anyone know about this???

stageleft · August 2000

Several folks in here have done what's being dubbed the "Throttle Hang Fix" that Contour enthusiasts have been doing for several years now. It's been reported to drop the RPM's faster and give a more sporting feel to the engine/transmission. I believe someone found the directions for this fix at www.fastcougar.com, but I'm not sure about the application for the I4.

Don't worry, no one's going to laugh John, a Cougar is always welcome, no matter the configuration.

You might also want to check out the Zetec (I4) specialists at: http://www.dunnell.co.uk/

Good luck!

badulah · August 2000

ccavsman:
Congrats on your new purchase and welcome to the CSG!!

johnluciano:
There is also a short throw shifter available for the Cougar which can be found on www.nopi.com
Both of these mods should clean the shifting up nicely.

Rob
AKA "Badulah"
http://home.att.net/~cougarsupportgroup

ccavsman · August 2000

Only would buy a 5 speed! I'll tell ya, it was
pretty tough to find, the silver frost, v6, and
5 speed - I live in Ohio and the dealer said this was the last one in a five state area, they found it in Kentucky -I'm not sure if its true, does any one have any idea how many 2000's are left? Were they not pulling my leg?

I saw a few posts, but just to make sure, the rev limiter is set for 6800? I've got 600 miles on it, and plan to do conventional oil at 1,000 miles(for good luck) - conventional oil at 5,000 - and probably go with the synthetic at 10,000 and beyond.

badulah · August 2000

ccavsman:
Do you plan to attend Cougar Fest Y2K on September 16th? Since you live up that way it won't be that far of a drive.

ptailor · August 2000

johnluciano:

I've got the I4 also. For me, the smoothness of the shift depends on the engine rpm's. If you shift around 3000-4000rpm, it is alot smoother. Anything less, and anything more is just too jerky. But then again, I guess it also depends on the drivers shifting skills

ccavsman · August 2000

Yea I saw that it is in Michigan on Sept. 16th,
not too far from me... be a fun drive for the
Cougar..

gustafsc · August 2000

29 days and counting!!!

If you're coming, don't forget to register.

Skip G.

johnluciano · August 2000

You know....you're right. After I read your post, I realized that it is smoother at about 3000 to 4000. And "Throttle Hang" that's what that is! Otherwise, I like the Cougar I-4. It serves its purpose - a good looking, solid driving car. Also, I am considering replacing the stock headlamps with Xenon lamps because the stock lamps suck. Does anyone have experience with doing so and/or when can you find the lights? Do they make them?

Thanks,

John

John

johnluciano · August 2000

As I read and re-read your posts, I feel as thought I am having deja vu. At 1,000 miles I had to take the Cat to the Vet (a.k.a. Gapin Lincoln/Mercury) for the following items:

1. Driver side weatherstripping came loose
2. Cat pulls to the left
3. "Factory" wrinkle in the right quarter panel and bumper.
4. A/C blows hot
6. Trunk wouldn't open right

PS: Trunk STILL doesn't open right!

-John

gustafsc · August 2000

For items # 4&6 (where'd 5 go?) there are factory TSB's outlining corrections. See the NECO website at newcougar.org

After 4 tries, my trunk works 90% of the time, and all the A/C needed was the proper level of charge.

Hope this helps.

Skip G.

benisem · August 2000

Well, as you may know, the North East is being over taken by mosquitos that spread the West Nile virus. Apparently, my town has 26 dead crows with West Nile disease and now, we must start spraying the deadly mosquito spray.. Now what exactly can this pesticide that you should not breathe do to a car's finish? Since my car is not in a garage, I am a bit concerned.. Yesterday I applied an extra coat of wax & last night I hosed down the car so the car would be wet and dilute any chemicals that hit it, and then this morning I re rinsed the car with the hose. I guess, I am asking your thoughts on car covers and any other ideas you may have to avoid having the finish of my car eaten away by pesticide.

stageleft · August 2000

Benisem:

I think you're on the right pro-active track in taking these steps to avoid paint contamination. Although I am not sure what any of those harsh insecticides may do to paint, I'd worry all the same.

I suggest to just keep doing what you're doing, as a car cover (unless you really want one anyway) doesn't keep dust out, only rain and grime for the most part. Also, if there are any contaminates on the paint before you cover your car, they might engrain themselves into the finish while covered.

spartan93 · August 2000

benisem: If anything, you are overreacting (not a knock, I would probably do the same). Pesticides are chemicals that attack nerve and/or respiratory systems of animals. Generally, they are not corrosive in nature and should not harm your Kitty's surfaces. Extra wax and frequent rinsing/washing are excellent precautions, though.

gustafsc · August 2000

Depends on what the vehicle used to carry the insecticide is. (Vehicle: fluid used to carry active ingredient, not helicopter).

Wash ASAP aftrer spraying, should be OK.

At one time, they used to use kerosene & DDT. Now that could get corrosive.

Skip G

blane · August 2000

If anyone has these particular concerns, here are three and a half official Ford Technical Service Bulletins (TSB) related to brakes (there are several others, but I wasn't able to get copies):

TSB #12707

R1995-1999 Contour/Mystique/Cougar front brake groan

Some 1995-1999 contour/Mystique and 1999 SVT Contour and Cougar may exhibit a front brake groan. TSB 99-08-09 (front brake groan during city driving) can also be applied to the 1999 SVT Contour. However, this TSB should only be applied to Contour/Mystiques/SVT built before 06/1999 and for Cougar built before 05/1999. Vehicles built after these dates will already have the new front linings installed in production."

TSB #13900 :

"Rear brake grind/groan on first application after
parked overnight

Some 1999-2000 Cougars equipped with 4-wheel disk
brakes may exhibit a groan/grind noise from the
rear brakes on the first application after the
vehicle has been parked overnight. This noise is
unrelated to braking performance. Servicing the
rear brake pads and/or rotors results in little
improvement at the present time. Engineering is
developing a service procedure for this noise."

TSB#13974

"Brake pad wear sensor

When replacing front brake pads on a 1999 Cougar equipped with sensors, the sensor harness on the service part pad being installed on the right front brake may be cut off and discarded. The pad wear sensor system monitors only the rear brake pads and the left front brake for wear. Removal of the harness will not affect brake operation or pad warning lamp operation."

TSB#????

I was only able to retrieve this partial wording:

"... applications. To repair, replace the rotors with a non-dacromet rotor part number F8RZ-1125-CA and replace the front brake pads with P/N XS8Z-2001-DA (w/pad wear sensors) or P/N XS8Z-2001-CA (w/o pad wear sensors). Retest to verify repair. Note: This repair will not resolve brake grind noise concerns. Engineering is currently developing a repair for the brake grind issue and a TSB will be published as soon as a service procedure becomes available."

benisem · September 2000

My leather on my seats in two separate small areas are discolored and rubbing off. And when I say discolored, I mean I have gray seats and one spot looks almost reddish purple! What the hell should I do? I have not used any product what so ever on my seats yet and I am concerned. I have not used any cleaning product in my car either. The only thing that has touched my car is a Swiffer, which I was not impressed with. Does everyone here armor all? My dash feels like it is made of some funky material, not leather, not vinyl. I am perplexed by what to do with the interior of my Bella. Is the seat even covered by warranty?

Any ideas, suggestions?

badulah · September 2000

I personally would NOT recomment Armorall. I have found that over time it will actually crack and dry out your dash. I only use a swiffer on my dash, and occasionally some water with a tiny bit of soap in it. For leather care, you should contact Jimbo_G. He is the resident detailing expert.

fish8 · September 2000

Yes, you seat should be covered under warranty. Your leather seats should lasta long time. Take Bella to the dealer and have them fix the seats.

fredly · September 2000

Seats should be covered under warranty.

For leather care, I suggest Lexol I believe it comes in a tan and orangish bottles
Cleaner and Protectant... smells great isn't slippery and makes leather nice and soft.

coolchick · September 2000

What's the best procedure for touching up little chips in the paint? I've got two or three from rocks being thrown up. They aren't big but they're deep, and I want to fix them before I wax Adelaide next.

Should I remove all waxes/glazes first? Do two coats and a sealer top coat like I do with my nail polish?

All help greatly appreciated!

gustafsc · September 2000

Over the years, bottle touchup paint has never looked exactly like the original finish. At least on any color that I've had.

There are some companies that come to your car, and use airbrush for minor nicks and scratches. If they're any good, the finish should look like new when they're done.

Check the phone book for one close to you, and ask to check out thier work on other customers.

Skip G.

badulah · September 2000

Skip:
Sorry I didn't get to say good by to you and your wife. I kinda ran out the door in a hurry. It was nice meeting the both of you. Hopefully next time we will have more time to hang out and shoot the breeze.

blane · October 2000

Anyone owning a Cougar WITHOUT antilock brakes, built before March 17, 2000, should read this from www.blueovalnews.com:

Ford Motor Company will issue a safety recall concerning certain 1996 through 2000 model year Contour and Mystique models and 1999 through 2000 model year Cougars for a possible brake defect.

The vehicle's Brake Pressure Control Reducing Valve will be replaced under safety recall number 00S03. According to Ford, "on some of the affected vehicles, one or both of the brake Pressure Control Reducing Valves (PCRV) may malfunction due to corrosion. If both PCRVs malfunction, both rear wheels may lock up when braking, potentially resulting in loss of control."

The recall will include the following vehicles:

* All 1996 through 2000 Model Year Ford Contour and Mercury Mystique Vehicles without Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) with build dates 4/1/1996 through 2/4/00 at the Kansas City Assembly Plant and build dates 4/15/96 through 2/18/00 at the Cuautitlan Mexico Assembly Plant.

* All 1999 through 2000 Model Year Cougar Vehicles without Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) built from Job1 through 3/16/00 at Flat Rock Assembly Plant

krnch · October 2000

I was informed that this recall applied to my Cougar when I was last in for service. They had the parts in stock and fixed it. Apparently it's a pretty easy fix. I doubt anyone will have any problems like those experienced with the door latch recall (scratched window tint, etc., eh Badulah?). When it comes to important systems like brakes, I wouldn't delay in having it looked at if you own one of the Cat's referred to in Blane's post.

Andy.

gustafsc · October 2000

Well, mine came in the mail today, so I guess I'll see about getting it fixed sometime next week, and they can also do all that 15Kmi stuff (except for the oil which I had done before Cougarfest.

Skip G.

lmigliore · January 2001

Kerosene and DDT is very good with gin. It's so hard to get DDT these days I've almost forgotten how good it was.

crighto · January 2001

Has there been many compliants about the cougar transmissions? My 1999 V6 just lost its forward gears. The dealership said they has a heck of a time finding a replacement. They did get a new one, but I am looking at two weeks before I can get my car back ( they have given me a replacement until then).

This leads me to think that there is a great demand for trans or none at all. What do you think?

blane · January 2001

crighto:

There were only a few TSBs for Cougar transmissions. The folks posting on this site didn't have any significant problems with them. You might ask your dealer's service department manager to review this Technical Service Bulletin:

Service Bulletin Number: 0019
Bulletin Sequence Number: 122
Date of Bulletin: 0001
NHTSA Item Number: SB612301
Make: MERCURY
Model: COUGAR
Year: 1999
Component: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
Summary: INFORMATION REGARDING SEVERAL INTERNAL CHANGES THAT HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED ON THE MRX-75 TRANSAXLE TO IMPROVE SHIFT EFFORTS. *MJS

crighto · January 2001

Thank you.
crighto

gustafsc · January 2001

Have your service department check TSB # 99-14-08, if yours is a manual transmission. Or TSB#99-13--07 if it's an auto.

Skip G.

Cougar Support Group - General Maintenance

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