30k service on an 02 GT

[fourpointsixgt]

Had it three years now and only done the oil/filter changes, runs like a dream but according to the Haynes manual at 30k it needs tranny fluid and filter, fuel filter,coolant change, brake fluid plus of course the engine oil/filter. Had a garage do the brake fluid last Oct when he fitted new calipers. Are the other jobs easy for the competent diy-er, nothing in the manual states anything specialist only or fancy tools so might order all the stuff and wait for a dry weekend, I've got axle stands and ramps. Anything to beware of ?

[LuS1fer]

fourpointsixgt said:

Had it three years now and only done the oil/filter changes, runs like a dream but according to the Haynes manual at 30k it needs tranny fluid and filter, fuel filter,coolant change, brake fluid plus of course the engine oil/filter. Had a garage do the brake fluid last Oct when he fitted new calipers. Are the other jobs easy for the competent diy-er, nothing in the manual states anything specialist only or fancy tools so might order all the stuff and wait for a dry weekend, I've got axle stands and ramps. Anything to beware of ?

Not done a Mustang but the transmission fluid and filter were easy enough on the Camaro - just read the instructions about getting the old O-ring out before fitting the new filter. Messy more than anything. You Tube will give you a good idea - this is a Taurus but the principle is the same:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7r01_13uh7w&fea...

The fuel filter is again messy and on the SN95 corrosion can affect the ease of removal (on the 05-on the fuel filter is much better located) but it should in theory unclip and the new one clip back on. Don't forget to depressurise the line. Just don't set fire to yourself.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6g0PpNYOCmY
1. locate the fuel pump shut-off swich in the trunk (little grey box with a red botton, located in the behind the right tail light), and shut it off.
2. Try to start the car, with the fuel pump shut off (to relieve pressure in the fuel lines).
3. jack up the cars rear, and find the fuel filter. (The fuel filter is located between the fuel tank and rear axel.)
4. Using a flat head screw driver remove the clamps on each side of the fuel filter.
5. Disconnect the hoses going in to the fuel filter. (Be careful not to get fuel in your eyes or on you for that matter)
6.Loosen the tensioner on the fuel filter.
7. There are two screws holding the fuel filters mount in place, unscrewing one of them and turning the mount down wards torawsd you, will make it easier to pull the fuel filter out of the mount.
8. pull the old fuel filter out and put the new one in

Coolant is easy enough but make sure you get the right stuff to avoid sludge forming. I use Prestone which mixes with all types and use a 50% solution though the pre-mix avoids the hassle of buying distilled water - probanly need two but it lasts 5 years:
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/PRESTONE-READY-USE-ANTIF...
Garages can do this with pressure equipment to ensure full emptying and avoid airlocks on refill. To avoid airlocks, fill the rad then run the engine, cap off until the thermostat opens and then gently rev the engine until the air starts to gloop out. Squeeze hoses to encourage the air to escape but remember coolant gets hot and can do a mini geyser and is poisonous if you drink it.

I always leave brake fluid to garages though it's not difficult, just strips paint if you get it wrong. Just bleed the furthest away from the master cylinder first. Garages have the kit to pressure change it so much more easily though.

You should change the cabin filter if you have one too. Usually by the wipers somewhere.

[LuS1fer]

Should add you may wat to practice using words like "sh*t", f*ck" and "bast*rds!" and handy phrases like "Come off you f*ck*r".
Best tip ever is when you get annoyed, have a cup of tea and come back to it.

[fourpointsixgt]

Thanks for that, not doin the brake fluid, but the rest sounds well within my skill level, the trans fluid's got to be Mercon V, is this redily available or will I have to get it from the Ford dealer along with the gasket and filter ? the oil filter is a motor factors job, same as a V6 mondeo one.

[LuS1fer]

Not sure. Should be readily available. I recommend the K&N filters on ebay as they have a nut on the end which makes them far easier to get off.

Part numbers and other stuff here may help you:
http://www.s197.co.uk/s197/forum/phpBB3/viewforum....

[Fartgalen]

I believe the auto gearbox pan filter is re-useable.

[fourpointsixgt]

My local Ford dealer was pretty useless regarding the Mercon v, but found this

http://www.commaoil.com/productsguide/view/6/180

Can get it quite easily from the motor factors place 2 miles away, says it's a suitable equivelent so might get this instead.