vtdave

Guys, I'm looking for some input on preventative maintenance for my '05 V6 4.0 convertible w/ 125k on the clock, above and beyond the scheduled maintenance. For instance, the scheduled maintenance never tells you to replace coolant hoses, but we know those don't last forever. I like to replace things before they break.

Here's what I already plan on doing this spring before she gets back on the road. The car is new-to-me last year, so history is a bit unknown.

1. Coolant flush (replace orig coolant), rubber hoses, t-stat, t-stat housing

2. Fuel filter

3. All oils (engine, rear end, manual transmission)

4. Serpentine belt and idler pulleys

5. Spark plugs and wires

Is it time to pull the fuel pump? Water pump? Other ideas from guys who've been there with the 4.0?

Thanks,
Dave

Alec

Brake fluid?

Unleashedbeast

Definitely do a brake fluid flush as stated above.

I wouldn't mess with the water or fuel pump until they go south. The coolant flush/replacement should revive the water pump a bit. The new fuel filter takes a lot of strain away from the fuel pump, assuming it's clogged.

It also would be good to perform a good top engine cleaning using seafoam BEFORE you change the oil. If you don't know how to do it, google search the topic.

vtdave

Thanks for the suggestions everyone.

JimC

I have 164,500 on my car - just changed the water pump this weekend because it was leaking and making noise. No need to touch it unless you have a problem with it, same with the fuel pump. Still using the original hoses though (other than the top one because that was replaced when I put the Xcharger on the car), they still seem to be fine. Still using the original thermostat too.

Can't answer on the belt and pulleys because I replaced those with the Xcharger, and have since changed to different sizes also. At least inspect your belt and idler pulley.

Get the coolant flushed and filled since you are over 100,000 miles.

Definitely do the fuel filter - if you haven't changed it before you are overdue.

Spark plugs are also due now for you. The standard autolite 5143 are all you need - don't be sucked in by the "they cost more so they must be better" thinking on spark plugs. In fact, some of the more expensive ones will run worse on the 4.0 than the stock set up because of the waste spark system used.

Wouldn't be a bad idea to swap the fluid in the rear differential at 125,000 miles either.

Mustangmaster

I have 94,000 on mine and just got my front end thunk (sway bar link broken) fixed by a local shop. I told the guy that I might be taking a trip across the country in a couple of months and to check it over for safety. He said they already did. He said he is a Mustang fanatic and knows everything about Mustangs. I said what about the serpentine belt and hoses. He said they looked great and should be fine. Told me to keep doing what I'm doing because everything looks superb.

I've never flushed my coolant. Never changed rear end fluid. He said I'm good to go. I'm liking how this car is holding up so far. It's not a rag doll that falls apart at 75,000 miles. Nice to know.