finally started fixing up the coug

[spider1178]

So far I've got the suspension and exhaust done. I chose the BAT Euro kit, and replaced the mounts, control arms, sway bar links, bushings, etc. while I was at it. Really loving the way it handles. For the exhaust I got the Trubendz 2.5" stainless Magnaflow dual setup.

Tonight starts the real fun. I'm got ahold of SVT upper and lower intake manifolds, and an optimized SVT throttle body, so I will be doing the SVT lite upgrade, along with a few other preventative maintenance items (plugs, valve cover gaskets, etc). I've read (and printed) all the walk-throughs on here and CEG, and bought a Chilton's just in case, but any words of wisdom would be appreciated. If I get it done tomorrow, I'll try and get it washed and snap a few pics.

[spider1178]

Well, I got it all done. It took forever doing this by myself, but it was a good experience...I learned a lot about my car. It sounds amazing. Didn't add much noticeable low end, but you can definitely feel a difference in the higher rpm range. While I was in there I also cleaned everything thoroughly, changed the plugs, and replaced every gasket, grommet, and o-ring I came across.



As you can see, I did manage to break that !@#$% vacuum line on the UIM, so I had to redneck engineer it with a small hose and some black tape, but this is only temporary until the replacement one comes in from the Ford dealer.



Here are a couple of the exhaust and tail light covers too. Sorry they're so dark, I'll try to get better ones in daylight later.

[wadespencer99]

Too much red under the hood for me, but nice work!!!

I'd argue that the suspension work made the car more fun

[spider1178]

Thanks Wade! (wow, that was a fast reply) And yes, the suspension has definitely made the biggest improvement out of anything I've done so far. The car is GLUED to the road.

[wadespencer99]

Smart move replacing everything at the same time. I just did the same thing: control arms, wheel bearings, F and R endlinks, mounts, bearings, bushings...new tires and alignment. I'll hopefully never have to touch the suspension again as long as I own it. Awesome.

[spider1178]

Yeah, I'm hoping for the same thing, other than better tires eventually. When I saw how much wear was on the ball joints and control arm bushings, and my mounts started making noise, I figured I may as well just do it all and fix it right the first time.

[blustreak]

Originally Posted by spider1178

...When I saw how much wear was on the ball joints and control arm bushings, and my mounts started making noise, I figured I may as well just do it all and fix it right the first time.

If you can, it's always better to things correctly the first time, especially when it comes to spending time and money on your car's suspension.

You did a great job cleaning, I like it but the different color reds & oranges look a bit strange.

[spider1178]

Again, thanks!

[Nemesis]

Get rid of the Weapon R filter, they have been known to break apart internally.

[spider1178]

Originally Posted by blustreak

You did a great job cleaning, I like it but the different color reds & oranges look a bit strange.

It's kind of an optical illusion in the pic because of the different materials...in person it all looks red.

Originally Posted by Nemesis

Get rid of the Weapon R filter, they have been known to break apart internally.

I know, I don't know why I ever bought that stupid thing. I've been questioning how well it actually filters compared to a K&N type filter anyway, so I will be replacing it soon. Was thinking about getting the Nautilus CAI if I can figure out a way to fit an AEM bypass filter on it to keep it safe during the winters here in Ohio.