the computer controls are so adaptable they can mask minor problems. I
bought a 97XR7 that i love the car has always run very well. The gas mileage
was around 14.5 to 16 depending on the week and how and where i drove. This
week on a whim i pulled the number 5 plug (front on drivers side) easiest to
get at. OH MY GOD. the center electrode was no existent.I pulled the rest on
the drivers side gaps all ranged from .095 to bigger than my guage. Several
calls to auto parts stores to find motorcraft double platinums (recommended
replacement according to ford) paid $4.30 each. finished the job. what a
difference the car will now chirp tires on dry level road. gas mileage is
now around 19-20 (haven't run through the full tank yet!!) however now with
all cylinders firing all the time car started to overheat. had to change
thermostat (also original) I guess my point is that the flexability in the
computer will keep a car running and mask what used to be obvious. Add that
to the good ride and extensive sound deadening some problems don't really
manifest like they used to. So add some diagnostics to the usually routine
maintainence. Also drive the wifes/Kids car occansionally because most times
they are clueless until the car quits running.
bought a 97XR7 that i love the car has always run very well. The gas mileage
was around 14.5 to 16 depending on the week and how and where i drove. This
week on a whim i pulled the number 5 plug (front on drivers side) easiest to
get at. OH MY GOD. the center electrode was no existent.I pulled the rest on
the drivers side gaps all ranged from .095 to bigger than my guage. Several
calls to auto parts stores to find motorcraft double platinums (recommended
replacement according to ford) paid $4.30 each. finished the job. what a
difference the car will now chirp tires on dry level road. gas mileage is
now around 19-20 (haven't run through the full tank yet!!) however now with
all cylinders firing all the time car started to overheat. had to change
thermostat (also original) I guess my point is that the flexability in the
computer will keep a car running and mask what used to be obvious. Add that
to the good ride and extensive sound deadening some problems don't really
manifest like they used to. So add some diagnostics to the usually routine
maintainence. Also drive the wifes/Kids car occansionally because most times
they are clueless until the car quits running.