I have a 2003 Ford Mustang (6er) that I just bought a couple of weeks ago. I can tell the guy loved the car. It is in pretty great condition but it does have 185k on it. So I am going through myself trying to anticipate any maintenance that may need to be done. I have to come up with this on my own because I cannot seem to find a maintenance checklist anywhere. Anyway, I am wondering whether I should rebuild, or I should say, get rebuilt the engine and transmission or replace them. I spoke to a transmission guy once before and he suggested a rebuild but he is a transmission guy so, what else is he gonna say?

What do you guys think? I have no problems with either right now but I don't like to wait for a breakdown before I get things done.

 

No point in rebuilding the motor or trans until they show signs of problems.
Just do regular upkeep stuff... change the fluids (oil, coolant, trans), filters (air filter, fuel filter, cabin filter), spark plugs/wires....

 

Have to agree with Lilroush on this one. Unless you are looking to install major upgrades, there is really no point to rebuild something that is having no problems.

Just save the money for the day when it does go south on you.

If it aint broke, don't fix it.

 

The little 3.8 is damn near bullet proof. I've been driving mine for 10k with a blown head gasket. I have an extra motor sitting around waiting for me to put it together, but the original is holding up well enough that I haven't made it a priority. I've driven it from Ga to Pa twice since the gasket blew (into the water jackets). Not that this is a good idea, but I also feel there is no need to replace a perfectly good motor that hasn't been abused or showing any signs of issues.

 

The essex 3.8L motor, as long as it's well maintained and left in stock to near stock form, can last a very long time until it needs a new motor/transmission. As stated no reason to rebuild the car unless you plan on building it up power wise as it shows no sign of wear.

 

Well okay then. I did want to put a dual exhaust in, but I assume when you guys are talking about a power build, you are talking about adding a supercharger. Eventually, I am gonna want to put in a performance 6 in her with P&P intakes and a cam, then possibly a supercharger but I guess the smart thing to do is just to sit back and save money for said upgrades.

 

It's all about your budget. Duel exhaust won't hurt a high mileage motor, but if this car is your daily driver and you can't afford both duel exhaust AND a rebuild if something happens then hold off. I'd save enough to rebuild the motor if needed and just leave it in the cookie jar, then use additional fun funds to mod her as you like. If you don't need the car to always work, or you have extra money then mod and run her till she breaks =-)