General => User Rides => Topic started by: Bruce M on July 23, 2009, 09:03:29 PM
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2009, 09:03:29 PM
Will now that Im back on my feet I think its time to focus on my baby. Shes got 160K miles on her and she leaks oil. So Im going to start with the motor and I might have a mustang 8.8 in the works. I know its not as wide as the cougar rear but I might run spacers. As for the motor Ive got GT40 Lighting heads with screw-in stud and guide plats, a 93 5.0 truck short block, HO cam, and 19Ib injecters. Im getting a SpeedPro engine kit from summit and I'll be doing the machine work at my old bosses shop for FREE. The plan is to have the motor built by the end of December.
Parts list. TrickFlow valve springs-done hardend push rods-done SpeedPro engine kit with flat-top pistons-done roller timing set-done stock HO cam-done Profrom roller rockers-done water pump-done HO computer-DONE GT40 upper intake- SOLD GT40 lower intake W/O smog-SOLD
parts list after motor is built Headers DONE H-pipe DONE 65 mm TB Done fuel pressure reg. MSD billet dist.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: V8Demon on July 23, 2009, 10:52:32 PM
You don't need spacers.....Run an 8 inch wide rim with 4.5" backspace instead of 5.5" ;)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: massCougarxr7 on July 24, 2009, 10:24:45 AM
sounds cool,.. got any pics????
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 24, 2009, 03:55:15 PM
Quote from: V8Demon;283521
You don't need spacers.....Run an 8 inch wide rim with 4.5" backspace instead of 5.5" ;)
Thats a good idea, I planned on buying news wheels and running 235/60s front and 275/50s rear. Thanks
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 10, 2009, 06:11:46 PM
I think my plans might change a little. My neighbor has a complete GT40 explorer engine (oil pan to intake). I was thinking about buying it from him and doing a stock rebuild for my cougar. I have a couple questions though. Do the explorers have the ho firing order and do the hi-torque explorer cams work well in cougars? Has anyone ran an explorer cam?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: xjeffs on August 15, 2009, 03:35:43 PM
You'd want to change the cam as it is a truck cam and won't rev high well. Firing order will depend on the cam you select. You could get away with an HO cam.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on August 16, 2009, 06:19:29 AM
I think an H.O. cam would work well with that motor setup.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on September 11, 2009, 02:39:20 PM
Well the cougar has been put on hold for a little bit. I'm buying a 96 Explorer from my friend for 500 bucks. His customer brought him the truck a year ago because the trans was sliping. When he gave him the bad news the guy just left it. So Im going to buy it from him and I'm going to have my other freind rebuild the trans. He said he'd do it for $250 plus parts if I pull it. Plus my neighbor wants 1000 bucks for his motor so that not going to happen. So now Im thanking about just trying some bolt ons for now. If I get the UPR K-member kit with coilovers do ya'll thank the 200lbs drag springs would be too weak for a heavy cougar. Should I go with the 300lbs street springs. I was thanking about putting my cobra heads, HO cam, roller rockers, and mass air on my stock short block for now. Untill after the explorer is on the road.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on September 11, 2009, 02:54:27 PM
Buy the Explorer for $500.00 and use that engine and forget the tranny.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on September 11, 2009, 03:27:56 PM
I really wouldn't worry about coil overs too much unless you really want to change your ride height and springs quite a bit. You could always get some springs in there to drop it down, and get caster camber plates. I would also get sub frame connectors mocked up if your going to keep the car for a while.
If your gonna pull the parts and buy them, then why would you pay him $250 after you did all the hard work? Is he going to rebuild the one you pull?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on September 11, 2009, 04:48:30 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;290840
Buy the Explorer for $500.00 and use that engine and forget the tranny.
It has a 4.0. If it had a 5.0 that would happen for sure.
Quote from: Haystack;290843
I really wouldn't worry about coil overs too much unless you really want to change your ride height and springs quite a bit. You could always get some springs in there to drop it down, and get caster camber plates. I would also get sub frame connectors mocked up if your going to keep the car for a while.
If your gonna pull the parts and buy them, then why would you pay him $250 after you did all the hard work? Is he going to rebuild the one you pull?
The UPR K member comes with A arms and a coil over kit for $600. It going to be a drag/street car and the K member kit take out 72lbs. Plus Id like to remove the A/C and P/S. Im sure thats good for 50 or 60 lbs. If I didnt have the mustang and the explorer I wouldnt remove the A/C and P/S but both cars have A/C and the cougar is suppose to be my play toy. Its just an idea. I'll probably just do the heads, cam, intake, and mass air for now. I'm going to pull the trans out hes going to rebuild it and I'm going to reinstall the trans.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on September 11, 2009, 05:19:39 PM
Oh,I understand now.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 07, 2009, 04:51:09 PM
Well it looks like the Explorer isnt going to workout. I tried to title it and has a lean on it.:mad: I dont really need it anyways, my boss just bought me a 99 ranger for a work truck.:roxor: So my focus is back on the cougar again. For now Im just going to get a gasket set, timing chain set, and oil pump and re-seal the motor. Im going to us the gt40 heads, explorer intake, and 19lbs injecters also. I just picked up the upper intake today for 30 bucks. I still need a 65mm TB and HO computer.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on December 07, 2009, 05:00:05 PM
What cam are you using?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 07, 2009, 06:52:09 PM
Im either going to run the HO cam which I have or a 268H comp cam which runs $250. The comp is .460 lift.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 23, 2010, 08:36:48 AM
Well it seems like everytime I think that I'm going to be able to work on my car something happens and I get delayed. Loving to work on my car and not being able can get depressing sometimes. I going to try to follow Vinnies advice and start trading and saleing parts. What I really need to do is rebuild my engine. It is starting to leak worse. I would just reseal the motor but its got some piston slap now. My baby is falling apart.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 10, 2011, 05:28:12 PM
Will now that the cougar has been called back to DD duty and gas prices are climbing, I desided to change the 3.45 gears back to 2.73. I took the posi out too. I reset the economy gauge on the way home and now Im averageing 18 mpg, thats a 5 mpg improvement. I have also desided to start donating plasma (they pay $50 each time). Im going to use that money to get a timing set, oil pump, gasket set, and heater core. Im not going to do any performance stuff yet just patching it up for now. Maybe after I join the army I'll be able to do what I want with the cougar.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: RunninWild on January 10, 2011, 09:29:10 PM
They pay you 50 per visit there? Here they give you 30...
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 11, 2011, 07:53:59 AM
yup.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: jpc647 on January 11, 2011, 08:22:28 AM
What does it entail to donate plasma?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 11, 2011, 10:06:24 AM
I assume it's the same as donating blood. I havent done it yet. I'm going to look into it today, Ill get back to ya.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 20thanniver-ls on January 11, 2011, 04:55:14 PM
Quote from: jpc647;349249
What does it entail to donate plasma?
A really long wait and a needle in your arm....
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: V8Demon on January 12, 2011, 12:03:22 PM
Quote
I reset the economy gauge on the way home and now Im averageing 18 mpg, thats a 5 mpg improvement.
...and is on the low side still if most of your driving is highway IMO....
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 12, 2011, 12:35:29 PM
Ya, it needs a timing chain pretty bad. 169K on the stock chain. I've had to advance the timing three time in the last 60K and aleast 6-8* each time. I've checked the TPS voltage and replace a few other sensors and it still gets py milage. I think it might need o2 sensors but it just runs too good and it doesnt smoke so Im a little confused with the MPG. OH and there are no vacuum leaks eather.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 13, 2011, 12:20:28 PM
Well the gas mileage is back where it was with 3.45s and now its starting to act up. Its starting to buck and sputter when its cold. It also doesnt a little when its warm, but only at lower RPM. I dont know what Im gonna do with this car.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on January 13, 2011, 03:39:14 PM
Didn't you say it needs a timing chain? Put one on then go from there.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 13, 2011, 06:00:38 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;349586
Didn't you say it needs a timing chain? Put one on then go from there.
Im going to. I worked a deal with my parents so they're going to buy a timing set and full gasket set for me. It's really weird though, all I did was drive it about 20 miles and now it doesnt buck or sputter anymore. I let the car cool off and it does'nt do it when it cold either. I think I might have a TPS getting ready to go bad.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on January 13, 2011, 07:01:53 PM
Do you have a warm dry place to work? If not,wait til you find one. Keep us posted on the results and good luck.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 13, 2011, 07:51:41 PM
I have a cold dry place to work, with all the tools I'll need. I hope to have the timing chain and oil pan gasket done by the middle of next week. I'll keep yall posted.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 14, 2011, 05:08:16 PM
I got my timing set, oil & filter, and conversion set today. I had to order the conversion set but it'll be here tomorrow. I talked to a freind that owns a shop, he's going to let me use his lift tomorrow as long as I help him assemble a SB chevy. He's got heat too. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Cougartimingchain.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 15, 2011, 05:28:47 PM
I changed the timing chain, it wasn't that bad, took about five hours. It idles and cruises alot smoother. It doesn't spark knock anymore. But the fuel mileage still hasn't come up where it was when I bought it. At 65 mph im turning about 1600 rpm and its getting 21mpg. When I bought it it got 28mpg. I don't knoe the average mpg yet. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Cougartimingchain002.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 20, 2011, 12:34:19 PM
I got a heater core for the Cougar today. On the box it says that its for a 79-93 Mustang, 79-88 Capri, 80-88 T-brid, and 80-85 Cougar. I could be wrong but I thought that the T-bird and Cougars were the same from 80-88. Why does the box say that its only good for 80-85 Cougars? Is the box wrong? I'll post pictures soon.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 20, 2011, 05:08:22 PM
Does this look like the right one? (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Cougarheatercore.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 50tbrd88 on January 20, 2011, 08:04:00 PM
It looks like the same one I put in my car several years ago. If its for a 80-88 'bird, it will fit your car.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 20, 2011, 08:12:27 PM
Thats what I thought. I dont know why the box says 80-85 Cougar. Thank you.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: V8Demon on January 20, 2011, 11:18:27 PM
It's the correct one. Throw it in.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 22, 2011, 04:33:53 PM
I GOT HEAT!!!! Thanks to Cool Cats. The right up on Cool Cats was very helpful. It only took about three hours. I was also fortunate that my freind let me do it in his heated shop (29* today).
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on January 22, 2011, 05:04:32 PM
WOO-HOO !!!! Now,don't you feel better?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 22, 2011, 05:25:46 PM
Hell yea! After everthing I've done to the car, I'm the happyest about the heater core. The guy that let me use his shop gave me all the gaskets for the top end of the engine (still need head gaskets). After I find an exhaust valve for my GT40 heads Im going to reseal the top end of the motor. I've got SS 1.94s & 1.60s for the heads but thats for the next stage. Right now Im just going to put them on stock. I only have money to patch it up for now. Ford wants $63 for a 1.54 exhaust valve and I cant find it in any of the parts catalogs at the head shop (only can find 4-barrel windsor valves and they have the wrong tip length). Early model valves have .395" tip length and late models have .480". I haven't checked any part store yet.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on January 22, 2011, 05:33:19 PM
Go to any machine shop that does heads,they can hook you up. Autozone also has them and can get them for you cheap.. A valve is pretty cheap.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on January 22, 2011, 07:07:23 PM
I know I use to work at a machine shop for five years and what sucks is we were a cylinder head shop. I could'nt find it in my old bosses catalogs and he did'nt sound very interrested in helping me. The only listings were 1.45 GT40Ps and early model 1.55 4V windsors. It shouldn't cost more than about 7-10 dollars. I have all of the measurements 1.54X5.09 with .480 tip. I'm going to check with a local engine part supplier that I use to deal with (Factory Parts) but I think you have to have an account.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 07, 2011, 05:11:30 PM
Not much to add lately. I changed both U-joints today. The front joint was wasted, one of the cap didn't have any needle bearing left. They were a pain in the a$$ too. I don't know why but they were a pain.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 12, 2011, 05:29:25 PM
So, Im getting a good tax return and my lovely wife has agreed to let me build a short block for the cougar. Just a cheap stock rebuild with flat tops. Im also going to run ported E7s with GT40 intake valves. I gave my GT40 heads to a freind in trade he's going to balance my crank and stuff. The E7s are already done and this way I will'nt have to buy stud mount RR. I do need some stuff like a HO cam and computer. I thought I had the cam but it's gone. Do any of yall have a cam or computer.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 12, 2011, 05:40:45 PM
Those cams (stock H.O) usually go pretty cheap,and are actually very good cams. Check over on the Corral and post your needs. There will be someone there who has those parts. Do you have the injectors already? If you're doing a rebuild,check around for replacement pistons. H.O pistons are a direct swap (you need new rings anyway during a rebuild),and you'll have forged pistons with valve reliefs as well in case you decide to get a bigger cam down the road....which may just happen.. Ask around.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 13, 2011, 09:04:50 AM
I have injectors. I plan on running KB light weight pistons with two valve reliafs. They're only $300 and I dont plan on running nitrous or a blower. I have a set of HO pistons but my block needs to be bored.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 13, 2011, 10:21:57 AM
Sounds like you have a plan. Is the H.O cam what you're going to use,or possibly a step up from that? Mas Air is super easy to do,and super cheap. The meters can be had from most salvage yards,and then a good computer which can be found for about $125.00 or so.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 13, 2011, 03:13:05 PM
Im not sure. I might run the cam you have in your car. I think I'm going to get the HO for now. I can afford to upgrade everything else like the TB and exhaust. Maybe down the road someday I'd like to swap the heads, so I can change the cam than.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 13, 2011, 03:23:52 PM
I saw an H.O cam on Four Eyed Pride for $25.00 this morning.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 17, 2011, 08:55:15 PM
Well today I was going over some options with the wife. I was talking to her about buying a mint 92 Ranger XLT 2.3 with 82K miles instead of putting money into the Cougar. She threw me for a loop when she told me she would rather me get some much needed work done to the Cougar. She's so awesome! She gave me a list LOL. She wants me to fix the leak thats leaving a puddle in the rear floor board, rebuild the motor to fix the oil leaks, have the headliner redone, and have the interior detailed. She also told me that if I expect her to drive it that she wants to have it repainted. I think she's finally coming around.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 17, 2011, 09:00:53 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;352839
I saw an H.O cam on Four Eyed Pride for $25.00 this morning.
Thanks but I think I'm just going to do a stock rebuild for now. Im on a strict budget now. My wife wants to be able to do more than the motor now. Stage 2 might involve mass air, trick flow cam, Patriot heads, and so on. We'll see.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 18, 2011, 08:24:12 AM
Stock rebuild? That sucks. That's the time to install a cam and just do the H.O upgrade. Cheap,and you won't have to tear the engine down again to do the swap later.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 18, 2011, 07:41:22 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;353230
Stock rebuild? That sucks. That's the time to install a cam and just do the H.O upgrade. Cheap,and you won't have to tear the engine down again to do the swap later.
Yeah but its funny how things work out. I got a HO cam today for free so now all I need is the computer. SWEET!!! My heads are done too. I got the seats cut out for the GT40 intake valves and I put them together today. I'm hoping to get a engine kit next week. Im getting a speed pro kit for what the KB pistons cost so no KBs. I'll have pictures soon, I need a new card (all of my cards are full).
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 23, 2011, 02:06:54 PM
Man this sucks! I got my state return yesterday and I planned on going to the junkyard to get a low mile explorer motor. But now my son and I both have the flu. I hope I feel better by this weekend cause explorer motors dont last long in the yards around here.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 26, 2011, 01:41:47 PM
I made my summit order today!!!! I ordered the engine kit, pedestal mount roller rockers, push rods, and o2 sensors. Should be here next week. $750 (dont tell the wife). I still haven't made up my mind if I'm going to use the HO cam or not. I haven't located a computer yet and Im not sure if I want to hot rod the cougar or not. I think I'm going for a nice restored cruser. I would like to do some suspension work too. It already has poly control arm bushing, so I think my next summit order will be a poly bushing kit for the rear and koni springs. Other then that I plan on having the head liner redone and having the carpets shampooed. That should hold me over for a couple years tell I can afford to have it painted.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 26, 2011, 09:08:19 PM
For the money you're spending, you'd better be adding some power. If you don't want a hot rod, just don't push the gas pedal so hard. But when you decide you want some power, it'll be there.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 26, 2011, 10:37:44 PM
To each is own. I've got another build in mind. My Cougar has a lot of sentimental value and I think that this is the better option for her. Not everything I own can be a hot rod. I have the hot rod bug and I hot rod everything I have owned. I just want to some what restore her back to her old glory. When I got this car from my aunt and uncle it was in such good shape and was bone stock and it has really gone done hill fast in the last couple years. I am not happy with what I've done to the car since I've owned it and I really miss how nice it was when I first got it. Dont worry too much. It will have alittle more power than the stock SO. I will be running E7 heads, roller rockers, and a explorer intake. And it already has 2.25" true dual exhaust. It will be fine for me. Thanks for your concerns.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 27, 2011, 06:51:32 AM
Im off to the junkyard today to look for an HO computer. You win Vinnie but this is where I draw the line, no more go fast goodys. I figure what the hell, I have the cam and injecters, and to be honest it's still going to be a stock motor. Why am I reasoning with myself. This is how it always starts.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 27, 2011, 07:09:18 AM
Well, I understand where you're coming from. BUT, with an H.O engine, you still have super driveability, good gas mileage,plenty of power, and overall, a great all around engine.I don't mean to build a lopey,300 horse engine, just add some power since it costs the same as a base engine if you already have the parts. Speed Density H.O computers are on Ebay, the Corral, and probably a member here has one sitting around somewhere if you can't find one. Check the Mark VII's if you can,and the Stangs of course. Usually by the time I find a 50 Stang, they are already stripped. Good luck,and post pics as the progress moves along.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 27, 2011, 08:25:50 AM
I wouldn't mind getting one from someone here, but Im always worried that if I buy something from Ebay or from another forum that it will not be what they said it is. I "had" a freind that sold a truck cam to someone and told them it was an HO cam knowing that it came out of his bronco (so he knew it wasn't). I'll be sure to post pics I just got a new 4GB card so I've got a lot of space. My parts should be here next week. As for the other build I've got in mind, it will either be a 5.0 ranger or a 91-93 2.3 5spd mustang autocross car. That's at least a year off though, so no need even bringing it up I guess. I try to have a plan though. It changes day to day LOL.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 27, 2011, 01:39:03 PM
I had no luck at the junkyard. They had few explorers but the intakes were already robbed. I thought about getting a set of GT40Ps but that would open a whole other can of worms, headers and exhaust arent in the budget right now. They didnt have any fox t-bird/cougars. So I couldnt find a good headliner or dome light lense. The mark VII that my friend said was there was gone, so I couldnt get a computer either. If anyone has a good HO computer please PM me.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 27, 2011, 04:42:26 PM
There's a new one on the Corral for $50.00. I've never had any issues with anyone on the Corral. They always sent what they said they would. Just check to see how long they have been a member. and their feedback. If I can help,let me know. What kind of dome light lens do you need. I have a few. If I have what you need, I'll ship you one this week. No charge. I don't need it.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 27, 2011, 04:48:54 PM
Well, the cam sold. If you post a "want to buy" thread for the cam and speed density computer on the Corrral and here, someone will fix you up. I'll look around.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 27, 2011, 05:25:42 PM
Thank you Vinnie. I need the lense that goes between the map lamps in the headliner. I have a cam and there is a member here that has a 87 computer for $35. Im a little worried about the harnesses are different between the 87 and 88. Do you know if it will work without repinning?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on February 27, 2011, 05:42:21 PM
You should be fine. Install the components under the hood, replace the stock computer with the H.O computer, start the car.You should be fine.I do believe there are a couple of small differences between the '87 and '88 harness, but you are not swapping harnesses, so, you should be fine.
PM me your address and I'll get the lens to you this week.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 27, 2011, 06:18:49 PM
Thank you very much Vinnie.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 28, 2011, 10:29:08 AM
I filled the cougar up today. I guess my eco gauge is wrong. I went 138 miles on 8.5 gallons. The math comes out to 16.2 MPG. The eco gauge says 13.7 MPG. Anyone have any ideas to correct the gauge. There is still room for gas mileage improvement.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: thunderjet302 on February 28, 2011, 06:36:55 PM
Re-set the fuel econ gauge and see what happens.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on February 28, 2011, 07:09:08 PM
Yeah I did that about a month ago. I'll try it again.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 02, 2011, 09:32:17 PM
I had a awesome birthday. I got all of my parts today and my wife took me to dinner and it ended up being a surprize party. I haven't taking any pictures yet but I'll be sure to get some tomorrow. I might bore the block tomorrow if I can get the boring bar to work right. I'm going to have to deck the block too, these pistons have huge valve releafs. I'm excited now.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 03, 2011, 07:54:10 PM
We couldnt get the boring bar to work today so I dropped my block off at my other friends shop. He's going to bore it for $80. Other than that nothing new.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 08, 2011, 07:21:51 PM
I got my block back from my friend today. He did a great job, all of the cylinders are within a .0005 of each other. I still haven't polished my crank to see if its going standard. My rods are good. I might be able to build my short block this week. I still need to install the cam bearings, freeze plugs, and hang my pistons on the rods. I took pictures today but I forgot my camera at the shop. I'll post some pics tomorrow.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on March 08, 2011, 08:52:24 PM
Sweet. Pics are a must.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 09, 2011, 08:40:32 PM
I loaded some pictures today. My block. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures014.jpg) Here's some of the rough cut pics of the port job. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures009.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures010.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 09, 2011, 08:43:53 PM
And I cant forget Vinnie. You're my hero. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures016.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 10, 2011, 04:01:07 PM
I got my computer today. $50 (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures018.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Brucespictures017.jpg) Does anyone know if this is the right one? It says DA1 but there is a sticker on the bake that says 3.0 taurus. Its the warrenty sticker. I think they might have put it on so that they could keep the warrenty. I can tell its not the original cause I can see old glue from the old sticker.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 10, 2011, 04:06:10 PM
I just did a quick search, it's the right one.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 11, 2011, 05:42:02 PM
I GOT A JOB!!!! I'll have more money to get the car done, but I'll have less time to get it done. I'm going to have to work on it at night and on the weekend. I going to try to get the motor put together next week, but I'll only have about an hour a night to do what I need. I'll be working for the owner of our apartment complex as a maintenance tech/ machinic/ electrician.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on March 11, 2011, 05:58:05 PM
Congrats on the job. I feel the same way. no time and a lot to do. I'm going to take a couple of vacation days soon so I can get some stuff done and still have some time to do some chillaxin'.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on March 11, 2011, 06:52:18 PM
Good for you! That's awsome!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 15, 2011, 10:46:37 PM
I'm so happy about the job, but it's bitter sweat. I have no time to build my motor. All I have left to do is put it together. The job is much more important, but I just want to finish it.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on March 15, 2011, 10:49:54 PM
Take a half hour or hour at a time to work on the engine, and it'll get done before you know it. I took 4 months to build mine due to no time because of work, and mega limited funds. But it got done. 30 minutes here and there add up to something.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on March 16, 2011, 07:22:48 AM
Congrats on the new employment. Looks like the parts are coming together.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 18, 2011, 08:08:34 PM
Thanks guys. Nothing new really, just loving my job and wear and tear repairs this weekend. I have to change a wheel cylinder and front wheel bearings.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 15, 2011, 09:17:05 PM
OK, bad news, I got laid off again. They figured they could not afford me. Good news, I ported my lower intake, hung my pistons on my rods, and put my shory block together. I have to order head bolts, pushrods (had to return the others, they were non-roller), and a timing set. I'd like to go to the junk yard to get some sheet metal so I can get the engine as close to done as I can. I might order some polished valve cover too. Sorry I cant post pics yet, I had to move in with my sister so my computer is in storage.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on April 15, 2011, 09:37:08 PM
Hopefully your sister will let you stay until you find a new place and new job. Grab any job you can, work it til you find what you really want. Gotta have some kind of income. Good luck.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on April 16, 2011, 12:36:51 AM
That sucks! I'm sorry to hear this. I hope you can find something else soon.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 25, 2011, 12:36:11 PM
I GOT A NEW JOB TODAY!!! I start at the ship yard tomorrow as a machinist. One thing sucks though, I'll be working 64 hours a week. I'll have very little time to work on my car. On the up side, I will be able to afford a newer car so my cougar can become my toy again.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on April 25, 2011, 12:43:35 PM
Way to go! That's great news!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 26, 2011, 08:48:45 PM
First day at work was OK. We drilled holes in turn buckles for carter keys and we drilled pilot holes in 2'X2'X4' blocks of wood for cribbing. First time I ever machined wood.:mullet: I'm alittle bumed, we're not working overtime like I was told. Atleast I'll have time to work on my car. I got my ARP head bolts and pushrods today. Hopefully I can get my heads bolted on this week. Maybe some pics soon too.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on April 27, 2011, 08:26:10 AM
You have to take what you can get. Glad to hear you making some progress, though. Anything is a step forward.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on May 01, 2011, 12:34:18 PM
I got to spend some of my first pay check today. I got another explorer intake for $71 from pickin - pull. I also read the price sheet wrong. I thought it was going to be $31 but they charged me for the upper and lower so it ended up being more than I wanted to spend, but after spending 2.5 hours to pull it I couldn't leave it. I thought that if I got another explorer that I'd get one with a 5.0, I changed my mind. What a pain in the butt car to work on. I also got a zoom timing set yesterday for $42.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 20thanniver-ls on May 01, 2011, 01:15:37 PM
Same thing happened to me last weekend when I went to the pull apart.... the price sheet doesn't differentiate between intakes, it just says "intake manifold", not upper, or lower or complete. So I pulled the upper and lower off of an Explorer spent a whole hour in the rain doing it, thinking I was getting the upper and lower for 36 bucks, well that wasn't the case. They charged me for the injectors, the EGR, the upper and lower, the IAC, the throttle body, the TPS, the fuel rails(which were previously damaged - I didn't worry about pulling them off, I obviously wasn't going to use them) and the intake plate,,,, It was (according to them) well over 200 bucks worth of shiznit.... screw that, plus I noticed the lower was cracked (prob. by me...) so I just pulled the upper and paid 17 bucks for it and the intake plate.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Crash225 on May 02, 2011, 11:43:43 AM
I figured the explorer would be easy to work on since its a bigger vehicle right?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on May 02, 2011, 04:11:51 PM
Quote from: Crash225;359186
I figured the explorer would be easy to work on since its a bigger vehicle right?
There's no room under the hood. And I didnt have the right tools for the job, there at work now.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on May 02, 2011, 04:32:02 PM
For what you paid for the upper....basically nothing, you're still way ahead of the game. Just be patient and you'll come across a lower eventually. I see them on the Corral for a decent price quite often. It's too bad you had to go through all the effort to pull all of that and end up only with the upper,though. I had my very complete Explorer (well, Mountaineer) engine on the stand, and it still took quite a while to strip that thing down. Lot's of stuff. In the mean time, start polishing the upper. I've got one in the garage I'm about to start on in the next couple of weeks.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on May 02, 2011, 08:21:15 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;359210
For what you paid for the upper....basically nothing, you're still way ahead of the game. Just be patient and you'll come across a lower eventually. I see them on the Corral for a decent price quite often. It's too bad you had to go through all the effort to pull all of that and end up only with the upper,though. I had my very complete Explorer (well, Mountaineer) engine on the stand, and it still took quite a while to strip that thing down. Lot's of stuff. In the mean time, start polishing the upper. I've got one in the garage I'm about to start on in the next couple of weeks.
I got the lower too ($71 for both). I just had to spend more than I wanted to. I'll polish it but You will not be able to see my polish job.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on May 31, 2011, 10:33:01 PM
Well I finely got to work on my motor today. I got the valve covers cleaned, painted, and install. The lower intake is cleaned, painted, and installed. I got her ready to go in. Im going to have to swap the front cover, balancer, and oil pan from the motor thats in the car now. I'm not going to waste anymore time looking for parts, I'll just clean up whats on the old motor. It will just take a little longer to swap the motors. I desided to go black with this motor. The block, heads, and oil pan are black. The valve covers are black wrinkle and the intake, front cover, and brackets will be aluminum cast blast. Im really debating on having the factory exhaust manifolds coated but I'd like to have the HP from headers. I just think that smoothed coated manifolds would look killer on a black motor. At least it does in my head.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on June 23, 2011, 04:25:30 PM
I have a dumb question. Do ya'll think that a 70mm TB will be too big for my motor. I've got ported E7s with GT40 valves, roller rockers (1.6), explorer intake, HO cam, 9.1-1 comp ratio, and Im steping up to 2.5" exhaust. I want to get the 70mm for future upgrades. And yes Im going to port match the intake to the egr spacer. Im about to make a summit order for intake gaskets, motor mounts, trans mount, and the TB. Need to know if I should go with a 65mm. I hope to have it done soon, the shipyard is working out great so money is not the problem now just time.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on June 23, 2011, 08:07:53 PM
I think it's a little big, but, you'd have it for future upgrades. A 65 is plenty I'd think. I wish I had kept my 65 and not got the 70 for my car.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on June 23, 2011, 10:25:12 PM
Thanks Vinnie, I think Im going to go with the 65. It might take awhile for the future upgrades and if you're not happy with the 70 with your parts than I dought Id be happy with what I've got planed.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 22, 2011, 06:05:26 PM
Im REALLY not happy about it but it looks like I'll be trading my cougar in tomorrow. :( Its my only transportion and I need a more reliable car for my family. It might work for some but my only car cant play both rolls as a DD and project.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 22, 2011, 06:25:36 PM
I don't see why not. The Sport is my daily driver, hot rod, hobby car, and part of the family. If you trade it, you'll almost be giving it away. BUT, you gotta do what you gotta do. Sorry to hear the bad news.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on July 23, 2011, 12:53:22 AM
With it being your only car I don't blame you. And who knows you may get another fox later on. Good luck with your search.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 08:10:42 AM
Thanks, Im going to hang onto my engine so Im sure if I do trade it in Ill keep my eye open for something, either a ranger or something. I've always wanted a 5.0 ranger.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on July 23, 2011, 08:45:34 AM
Sorry to hear that it has to go. Good luck with the new car!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 02:48:08 PM
I've got good and bad news. Im keeping the cougar but I didn't get a new car. I was approved but they didnt have what Im looking for and they were only going to give me 300 for a trade in. So even if I get a new car Im not going to use the cougar as a trade in. I can save that much pretty fast. Im going to try to save atleast 1500 to 2000 for a down payment that way I cant get something nice with a good payment. I want a V6 Escape 4X4 or a four door Explorer 4X4, between 05 or 09 year.
So back to plan A. Im going to get the rest of the parts needed to install the motor next weekend. I need a motor mount, trans mount, oil & filter, antifreeze, and a gt40 intake gasket. Im about to head out the door to pick this stuff up. I think Im going to get a upper and lower rad. hoses too. I might need an electirc fan too cause I think it might be running a little warm to. I'll try to post some pictures but I dont know if I can down load them on my sisters computer.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: thewestie on July 23, 2011, 05:02:32 PM
I'm glad to hear the cougar stays
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 05:34:30 PM
Thanks. I understand its an old car but $300 for a trade in, come on. Im not letting my car go for chump change. I didnt want to trade it in anyways but now I know that it wouldnt help if I did so I get to keep my baby.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 23, 2011, 05:42:07 PM
Well, for the monthly payment on something else, you could have the Cougar fixed in no time, and still be way ahead. I have motor mounts with new cushions, and new cushions as well.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 23, 2011, 05:43:07 PM
The Cougar is better off with you anyway. I'm glad you're keeping it. What all do you need to make it road worthy, working a/c, and ready for action?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 06:15:52 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;363886
The Cougar is better off with you anyway. I'm glad you're keeping it. What all do you need to make it road worthy, working a/c, and ready for action?
It's road worthy, A/C works. I think its running a little warm with the A/C but the gauge reads fine and I have a check engine light and know one can seem to pull codes around here. It's just that it's 23 years old and my familys growing. I'm just worried its going to leave on the side of the road. But as I already said Im back on track the motors going in next weekend, maybe Im just a little overwelmed.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 23, 2011, 06:21:49 PM
Now that I have the Sport's cooling system figured out, I'd take it anywhere. Actually, all of the suspension and drive train has been swapped, new everything for the a/c,.heck, practically every part has been swapped out. It's almost a new car. I have a few small things to do (new struts and shocks, rear tires, and paint and recover the seats, then window tint). After that, I'll call it quits for a while and just drive all I can.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 23, 2011, 06:24:04 PM
Make sure all of the really important stuff is up to the task...brakes, bushings, drivetrain, and a/c and heat. Just work, as I'm sure you already know, patiently, and one piece at a time. Keep it highly functional. With the sport, It's my daily driver, so, I want performance, decent gas mileage, good looks, and can haul groceries and kids. It can do all that without a problem. I'm good with that.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 08:17:08 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;363892
Make sure all of the really important stuff is up to the task...brakes, bushings, drivetrain, and a/c and heat. Just work, as I'm sure you already know, patiently, and one piece at a time. Keep it highly functional. With the sport, It's my daily driver, so, I want performance, decent gas mileage, good looks, and can haul groceries and kids. It can do all that without a problem. I'm good with that.
Yeah, all of the important stuff is good. I've rebuilt the front end about two years ago. New poly bushings, new ball joints, new tie rods, new rotors & pads, and wheel bearings. I also need rear tires. I also need to redo the rear suspension and the rearend. I already have a rebuild kit for the posi, I just need 3.73s (or reuse my 3.45s) and an complete install kit. It also has new rear brakes. And the A/C blows pretty cool. I think it might be a little over charged because it doesnt seem to cool as good as I think it should.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 23, 2011, 08:30:04 PM
I just want to the parts store, I think I got everthing I need to swap the engine. I got new motor mounts, explorer intake gasket, spark plugs, oil & filter, thermostat, and antifreeze. I already got new O2 sensors too. The motor mounts are nice, theyre solid rubber not filled. Theyre Pioneer inc part # 2661SR. I didnt know they made them.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 23, 2011, 10:10:13 PM
Keep the 3.45 gears since it's your daily car. 3.73's are nice, but you'll be better off with the 3.45's in the long run with gas mileage. In the end, that has to be up to you. I have 3.55's, and am very happy with them. I had the 3.73 rear in for a while, not a big difference, but the rpm's were a lot higher. I still have the 3.73 rear (8.8) out in the garage on jack stands. It looks good siting there I suppose.LOL.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 26, 2011, 06:52:15 AM
Any progress, or are you waiting for fall so you don't spontaneously combust outside? It was 109 here yesterday.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 26, 2011, 04:11:37 PM
No progress yet. Im putting the motor in this weekend. I set it up with my old boss yesterday, hes going to let me use his shop and tools to install it. We just came out of a heat wave yesterday, it has been around 110 to 114 here.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Soul on July 26, 2011, 04:36:20 PM
GL and keep us posted.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: hwy73 on July 26, 2011, 08:24:32 PM
You mentioned it running warm and the A/C not cooling as well as it used to. This cropped up on mine this spring as well. Turns out the fan clutch (original mechanical fan) was on the way out. The A/C temp would rise as would the coolant temp gauge. Didn't put the two together until it started to make NOISE.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 26, 2011, 10:04:49 PM
My water pump, fan clutch and rad. are fairly new. I think Im having ECU problems cause my check engine light keeps coming on and I had three different people try to pull codes and the computers will not communicate. My temp gauge never went up I just thought that the hose felt hotter than norm. Im not to worried about it cause Im replacing the ECU and engine this weekend.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 27, 2011, 06:53:35 AM
Hopefully the swap will go really smooth. make sure you have everything done to the new engine you can before you install it...except the accessories. I'd leave them off until you drop it in. Makes a lot more wiggle room squeezing the 5.0 in over the core support. Triple check everything now before the big day. Are you nervous with excitement?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 27, 2011, 04:11:26 PM
Hell yeah Im nervous with excitement! The only things Im not putting before I drop it in are the upper intake, accessories, and exhaust manifold. I cant wait, I just hope nothing happens that well set me back again. I had planned on putting it last weekend.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 30, 2011, 07:13:27 AM
I've got the engine just about ready to pull. All I've got lift is unbolt the torque converter, starter, bellhousing, and motor mounts. I stayed up at the shop untill ten last night, I could have got it out but I was getting burnt out. I hope I can finish it today, it's going to be a long day.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on July 30, 2011, 07:20:31 AM
You are rolling now!
Just take your time and be careful. Don't get hurt swinging that bugger out of there.
Good Luck!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 30, 2011, 10:01:57 AM
I've always thought it was better to pull the tranny and engine as one unit, then install them as one unit. Just stab the tranny downward, and shove the whole assembly in. It worked for me. Good luck getting it all together. Do you have a helper? That comes in REALLY handy.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 30, 2011, 09:37:51 PM
I dont personally like pulling the tranny with the motor. It wasn't to hard to put it back in. It took alot longer to swap the off the old motor to the new one than I thought it would. All I've got left to do is install the power steering pump, A/C, alt., and upper intake. Then I should be ready to fire it up. Is the computer behind the PS kicker panel?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 30, 2011, 10:38:56 PM
Yes, the computer is behind the PS kick panel. Just a simple computer swap for Speed Density. There's a tiny green fastener up there in the kick panel holding the white plastic computer "bracket". It's easy to drop and possible never see again.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on July 31, 2011, 05:47:28 PM
I got everything back together and it wont start. I can hear the fuel pump and I've got spark. I pulled the plugs and Im only get fuel to two maybe three cylinders. Im not surprized the injectors set for at least five years and I could smell bad gas in them when I put them in. I hope I dont have to get a new set, they're $280 for a cheap set. Im going to check the junkyard tomorrow. Does anyone have a set of 19s just incase. Ive also read on here that someone got their injectors rebuilt, could someone inlighten me please.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on July 31, 2011, 10:57:08 PM
Bruce, I have an excellent set of low mileage 19's in my rolling tool box. Yours for $20.00 shipped.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 01, 2011, 07:43:32 PM
Thanks Vinnie, that's an awesome deal. I was going to come home and get your info, but I desided to go to the shop and pull mine out and clean them. So I sprayed them with crab clean and reinstalled them. Then it fired right up. Im SO lucky. I think I have a vacuum leak though, my vents dont work, its pops (under light throttle), and doesnt have the power it should. Crusing and full throttle it doesnt pop.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 01, 2011, 10:47:39 PM
I fixed the vent issue but it still pops under light throttle. I think the 2.73 gears are killing the power. When it gets in its power range its a beast. Im going to start getting parts to put my 3.45s back in, after I rebuild my posi.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 01, 2011, 10:48:33 PM
Thanks again Vinnie, you've helped more than you think.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 01, 2011, 10:53:06 PM
Get the 3.45's in there !!! Then you'll REALLY like it !!! Oh, you're welcome......although I have no idea what I could've done.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 02, 2011, 05:53:48 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;364489
Get the 3.45's in there !!! Then you'll REALLY like it !!! Oh, you're welcome......although I have no idea what I could've done.
Motivation and advice.
The 3.45s are going back soon. I think the popping is timing related, I think its retarded. After 500 miles Im going to switch to lighter oil, Ive got alot of oil pressure.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 02, 2011, 05:58:30 PM
Hey, I'll do all I can to help you. I'm easy to find. The 3.45's are what I had in my other Bird with the 7.5 rear. never had an issue with them, and great gears. I couldn't tell a difference between them and the 3.55's I had with the replacement rear. Good all around gearing. Now that I have my replacement hood, I'm getting motivated to do something. Now if the heat would just stop.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 02, 2011, 07:41:42 PM
Hey Vinnie you had an Explorer TB on your car didnt you? I can get a 65mm explorer TB for $20. What is involved in swaping it to the cougar. I think all I need to do is grind off the peened shaft and change the lever. But how is the lever held on? With a screw?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 02, 2011, 09:08:59 PM
You grind off the little pressed metal that hold the lever on. Once you grind it down enough and give the lever a pull (carefully), it'll pull right off, then replace it with your stock Fox lever, then tack weld it. Done. Watch how the lever installes and how the spring is located. Also, when doing the tack weld, be really careful not to melt the plastic insert with the spring. It takes the smallest weld to hold it...not much at all. Takes about ten minutes to do if you take your time.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 03, 2011, 05:43:40 AM
Quote from: vinnietbird;364535
You grind off the little pressed metal that hold the lever on. Once you grind it down enough and give the lever a pull (carefully), it'll pull right off, then replace it with your stock Fox lever, then tack weld it. Done. Watch how the lever installes and how the spring is located. Also, when doing the tack weld, be really careful not to melt the plastic insert with the spring. It takes the smallest weld to hold it...not much at all. Takes about ten minutes to do if you take your time.
Thanks!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on August 03, 2011, 05:45:22 AM
Glad to hear you got her running Bruce. Keep us posted on the popping issue.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 03, 2011, 04:14:35 PM
Im starting to think its a dist. problem. It doesnt do it all the time but its has NO guts at low RPM, which is weird because I advanced the cam 2*. I got cleaner in the dist. when I was cleaning it so hopefully its not screwed up. My brother is bringing a timing light home tonight so Im going to play with the timing. All of the oldtimers I hang out with are saying that I need more timing but I set it at 12* when I got it running.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 03, 2011, 06:34:14 PM
Its fixed!!!! My freinds timing must be off. I set it at 12* with his Snap on light and it was only at 7*. I advanced it with my brothers Matco light to 14*, WOW! What a improvement and no popping.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 03, 2011, 06:45:35 PM
Clean the distributor and see what happens. It'll be fine if you got some cleaner in there.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 03, 2011, 07:38:35 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;364582
Clean the distributor and see what happens. It'll be fine if you got some cleaner in there.
Its fixed, it was just a timing issue. My freinds timing light is off 5* ( I set it at 12* and it was only 7*). I used my brothers light and now it runs great! I SO glad I didnt get rid of my car. Now I need headers, 2.5" exhaust, gears, and I shift kit.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 03, 2011, 09:45:55 PM
i went through a company called WIT for my wife's shift kit to put in her Maxima. Great people to deal with and I had the package in less than 24 hours. I like that. Check the Corral forum for headers. They can be found really cheap over there quite often. I got mine, brand new a couple of months ago for about $10.00 less than I sold my used ones for. Also there are all kinds of exhaust parts. Check them out. Depending on your budget, it can be done really cheap if you shop around. Good to hear it was the timing. Simple fix. Now the fun starts.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 09, 2011, 05:45:07 PM
The car is running great. I think I had a bad o2 sensor before I changed the engine. With the new engine and new o2 sensors its getting about 19-20 mpg, thats 3-4 mpg better and I have about 75-100 more horses. I like having more power and gas mileage.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 09, 2011, 06:08:21 PM
I'd think your gas mileage should be better. I get a little better than that with my combo. Should improve a little more when I re-time the engine. Glad to hear yours is running great though. Get the gears in. What gears are in it now?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on August 09, 2011, 06:59:37 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;364856
I'd think your gas mileage should be better. I get a little better than that with my combo. Should improve a little more when I re-time the engine. Glad to hear yours is running great though. Get the gears in. What gears are in it now?
I had 3.45s in it for awhile but I started to get noise in the rear so I put the 2.73 back. The pinion was rubbing the carrier. When I have the money for a install kit, bearings, and rear control arm bushings Im going to pull the rearend and reinstall the 3.45s and bushings. I already have a rebuild lit for the posi. It might get better MPG, thats just what the dash says. The gauge might still be wrong, with the old motor the dash said 14 mpg and after doing the math it was about 16 or 17 mpg.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on August 09, 2011, 07:12:05 PM
Sweet. Sounds like you are really enjoying the car again. :D
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on August 09, 2011, 07:16:34 PM
The 3.45's will probably make the mileage go down a little bit. No big deal from what you'll get out of them, though.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on September 01, 2011, 06:00:10 PM
No updates, I've been focused on getting my new truck running good enough to insure it and tag it. I had it running good (it had a problem revving) but when I came back to it after the storm it started fouling the plugs. I pulled the plugs and three of them had oil on them. So Im going to pull the upper and valve cover to replace the valve seals then Im going to get it legal. I do have great news though. I just got another raise ($8 in four months) so Im moving into a three bedroom house with "wait for it" a TWO CAR GARAGE!!!! And if the over time keeps coming in Ill be able to do some more to the Cougar. I need to rebuild the rearend and I might need a distributor. It has a intermitting problem, sometimes its fast and sometimes it feels like the timing isnt advancing like it should.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on September 01, 2011, 09:16:53 PM
Congrats on the raise. I have a distributor if you need it. Works great. Yours for shipping charges. Needs the module and cap.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on September 02, 2011, 05:07:46 AM
Thanks Vinnie, I'll let you know.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on October 25, 2011, 07:25:34 PM
It's been awhile since I've been around. I moved into my new house and I just got the internet going. I havent got my truck on the road yet, the valves got stuck open and it bent three push rods. I just got the push rods today so I'll pull the head to do a valve job and mill it this weekend. I put some 235/60s on the back of the Cougar today too. She had a hell of a time hooking with the 215s. There are black marks in the street out front about a 100 feet long from pulling out of the driveway and flooring it. She really hauls now with the motor broke in. I cant wait to put the 3.45s back in with a fresh posi and bearings. I should get to it soon, I'm going to order new bearings for the rear real soon. It's so awesome that my job is working out so well. Im getting around 8-16 hours of over time almost every week. Two weeks ago I got 59 hours of over time (Im still hurting). So now Im finally getting to work on my car.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on October 25, 2011, 10:55:55 PM
I'm glad to hear things are working out so well, and the Cougar is getting some love. Keep us posted. Are you going to be a regular with us again?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on October 26, 2011, 06:16:35 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;371160
I'm glad to hear things are working out so well, and the Cougar is getting some love. Keep us posted. Are you going to be a regular with us again?
Yup. I dont like the tires I got yesterday. The side walls are too soft. I can feel the rear fishtall going down the interstate like they're drag tires. It might be the wind but I dont like it.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on October 26, 2011, 06:48:39 PM
Glad to hear the job is working out for you! It's a drag to not be home to play, but nice to have some cash when you are home!
What brand tire did you get?:burnout:
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on October 26, 2011, 07:30:35 PM
Pepboy special, futura GLS, 235/60-15. $95 each. I wanted BFG radial T/As but they were a pain to find and they were $120 each. I didnt want to spend that much when I plan on getting 17s in about six months. I've used GLSs on my ranger and they worked great, so I dont no why they're so loose on my car when it has a much tighter suspension.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on October 26, 2011, 11:18:29 PM
Do they have enough air in them? Maybe the wheels need to be tightened. I had a '79 XR-7 and when the rear would sway, lug nuts were loose. I never did figure out why they kept backing off. Got rid of it before it killed me. Wish I had kept it now.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on October 27, 2011, 06:12:50 AM
The lug nuts are tight and the tires have 33 pounds in them. I think its the sidewalls. You can push the rear side to side and see the sidewalls flex. I might pump the tires up to 35-36 pounds and see if it helps.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: 1Bad88tbird on October 27, 2011, 08:13:10 AM
Take them back before you put alot of miles on them. There might be a flaw in them. It's worth a shot.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on November 02, 2011, 05:09:26 PM
Well, the F-150 isnt going to work out. Im not going to pull the head. The valve are free now so Im going to put the new push rods in and get rid of it or give it back to the guy I bought it from. It has title issues that I want no part of. But I did buy a 90 Ranger, 2.3, 5spd, A/C, and P/S with 117,000 miles. I payed too much for it but its really nice inside and out and runs great which is a plus. Im so tried of buying projects, Im so glad I finally have something that doesnt need something. I'll try to post pictures tomorrow, I should be picking it up from the dealer tomorrow.
P.S. I cant wait to get good MPG again!!!!!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 01, 2011, 05:01:18 PM
I finally got around to swapping the throttle lever from the HO TB to the Explorer TB and got it installed today, WOW! what a difference. If I would have known I would done it sooner.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on December 01, 2011, 05:25:33 PM
Glad you got the t-body done, but it really wan't a secret that the Explorer 65mm upgrade was a good one. LOL.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 01, 2011, 06:06:42 PM
I know, its just been hard to have time to work on it. I've been working alot of over time. This has motivated me, I cant wait to get the 3.45s and posi back in. With the gears, shift kit, and exhaust done, I bet she'll fly. Compared to the SO anyways. I better keep street tires on it or the 7.5 wont stand a chance. I also think an electric fan is in the near future. The next step will be installing the gears. I plan on getting all new bearing, seal, and shims for christmas and maybe a shift kit if theres enough money left over after I take care of the kids and wife.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on December 01, 2011, 11:16:18 PM
One piece at a time.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on December 01, 2011, 11:30:23 PM
Quote from: Bruce M;371252
The lug nuts are tight and the tires have 33 pounds in them. I think its the sidewalls. You can push the rear side to side and see the sidewalls flex. I might pump the tires up to 35-36 pounds and see if it helps.
I had some old dry rotted tires on my bird, and it did the same thing. New set of tires, and it was fine after.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 02, 2011, 05:50:30 AM
Quote from: Haystack;374400
I had some old dry rotted tires on my bird, and it did the same thing. New set of tires, and it was fine after.
They're brand new. Maybe I got used to it because I dont notice it that much anymore.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on December 02, 2011, 03:50:26 PM
Try putting more like 38-40 psi in them. Or run what the tire says on the side.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on December 02, 2011, 07:15:25 PM
Run what the tires says to run. If you want stiffer tires, get tires with a lower profile and stiffer sidewalls.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 08, 2011, 09:21:38 PM
Im going to either start gathering parts for a T5 swap or a built C4. I held her in first gear for her first 6K RPM pull and when I shifted to second it slipped pretty bad. Im tired of AODs, this is the second trans I've put in this car. Im surprized it pulled hard to six grand, I held it until it flattened out which was about 5800. I thank I'm going to put a C4 in it with a 2400 - 2600 stall. A T5 would be funner to drive but with my future plans a T5 will not hold up.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 09, 2011, 01:01:01 AM
C4's<3 i don't care what anyone says, C4's are better than AOD's
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on December 09, 2011, 01:15:00 AM
As long as you don't care for overdrive.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 09, 2011, 01:54:30 AM
OD is nice.. for some people, but i think they suck, majorly.. you can make up for it with a performance lockup converter
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on December 09, 2011, 02:37:15 AM
4R70W FTW.
I am luvin' the one I got so far. Of course I haven't had a chance to abuse it, but it is the end result of Ford developing the AOD.
Bellhousing and trans set me back about $500.00
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 09, 2011, 05:45:03 AM
Do they make controllers for them?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 09, 2011, 08:06:58 AM
bauman does.. i can't know the 4R70W, ford got their game in order after the AOD and put together a decent transi just don't like the fact that it's computer controlled, but that's where the controllers come handy
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on December 09, 2011, 10:23:52 AM
Quote from: Bruce M;375070
Do they make controllers for them?
Yep, like Shadow said. Baumann Opti-shift is what I am using. It costs for the electronics, but then you save on the hard parts and gas.
If a person wanted/needed OD, I believe all the best arguments would be for the 4r70.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 09, 2011, 11:53:46 AM
Quote from: flylear45;375088
If a person wanted/needed OD, I believe all the best arguments would be for the 4r70.
agreed.. i posted a thread on SBF tech asking about AOD upgrades and everyone praised the 4R70W, so i looked into them.. definitely a better trans by a long shot. if you add it all up, it's cheaper to get a 4R70W with a controller than it is to beef up and AOD with performance parts.. like they say, you can polish a turd, but it's still a turd.. i like the C4 because it's a lot like the AOD, minus the trashyness and OD.. C4's also take a LOT more abuse as you add power. i ran a STOCK 140k mile C4 (nothing but a shift kit) in my capri for about 2 months before it died, and i'm pushing a lot more than the 450hp they're 'rated' to handle.. an AOD would have died in 2 days, max
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 09, 2011, 04:47:56 PM
What about the AODE. I havent heard good or bad. I'd like to keep OD but I cant stand the TV cable. How much are the 4R70 controllers?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 09, 2011, 06:06:43 PM
the E transmissions are no better, they're just AOD's with electronics thrown at it.. as for controller prices, :dunno: you'd have to check baumann's site or summit.. or something lol
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: thunderjet302 on December 10, 2011, 02:21:11 PM
I have a bullet proof AOD. It just cost $$$ to build. It can be done, just not on the cheap.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 10, 2011, 02:28:58 PM
you can build 2 C4's for the price of 1 AOD.. this is definitely, a true statement lol AOD upgrades are ridiculously priced
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on December 10, 2011, 05:20:02 PM
Built AOD's are often upgraded in part with later model parts from the 4R70W to make them stronger. It varies with the rebuild, of course, but basically it's the same transmission except improved with every revision.
So, as to the AODE, it's better than those before it but unless you are getting some killer deal on a known quantity get a later trans. Even with the 4R they say the latest are the best, but to get a speedo drive you have to get a pre- 2004 model.
It is more involved with all the wiring and the computer, that's for sure. I saved money by not getting a harness for the tranny and making my own. Careful as I was I still mixed up two wires in the process.
Like with Megasquirt, I would say that it's great but not for everyone.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 10, 2011, 09:34:45 PM
Quote from: flylear45;375191
Like with Megasquirt, I would say that it's great but not for everyone.
agreed.. i nearly walked away from my MS2 many, many times.. D.I.Y. doesn't mean it's easy.. :punchballs:
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 14, 2011, 05:53:06 PM
I ordered headers, H-pipe and a ring & pinion install kit for Christmas but I cancelled the headers and H-pipe and ordered long tubes instead. I cant wait. Im hoping that when I put the 3.45s back in the transmission wont slip. It doesnt slip bad, just when you hold it in first and shift between 5500 and 6000. http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HED-88360/?rtype=10 (http://"http://www.summitracing.com/parts/HED-88360/?rtype=10")
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on December 14, 2011, 06:25:54 PM
Oughta growl like a pi$%ed off cat!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 14, 2011, 08:14:00 PM
Well I dont get to drive the cougar much because I've been driving the ranger, but I just went up to the store to grab a bottle of wine for my wifey and I still cant get over how much the TB helped. I cant wait to get the headers and gears installed. Hey Vinnie, when you modded the explorer TB did you use the Explorer TPS or the t-bird TPS. I put the cougar tps on the explorer TB and it doesnt fit right. I was thinking about get the Explorer TPS connector and useing the Explorer TPS? Wjat do you think?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on December 14, 2011, 11:05:32 PM
Doesn't fit right? Could be two reasons.first, check inside the TPS hole on the throttle body. Where the TPS goes....is there a plastic ring in there? If so, pull it out.
Second, look at the TPS (bottom)...some have a plastic ring one them that is barely visible. If it does, pull it off. I used any 5.0 TPS on my Explorer T-Body. let me know what you find.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 15, 2011, 08:38:41 PM
I havent checked for the bushing you're talking about vinnie, thanks for the help. But I did add a TCI shift kit to my order. Im likeing Christmas again, I feel like a kid.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 16, 2011, 06:41:41 AM
i'm glad someone gets it.. i haven't had the xmas spirit in years and i don't know why.. nothing's changed, i always get the few things i want, along with a few others i wasn't expecting and it's still just 'oh, cool' instead of 'AWESOME!'
more importantly.. you should like that TCI kit, they make some badas$ stuff
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 16, 2011, 09:37:35 PM
Anyone have experience rebuilding AODs? I think the new engine has killed the AOD, before it only slipped when I held it in first and now it slips when I let it shift it self. I've been babying it today when I went christmas shopping and it didnt shift right, it wouldnt shift out of first until 30mph (about 3000 - 3200 RPM). Then it started shifting better but it still aint right, Im wondering if theres a valve hanging up in the valve body. Anyway is this a hard transmission to rebuild?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 17, 2011, 11:34:29 AM
depends, have you ever had your hands in a trans? they're not too far from a C4 in terms of assembly/disassembly
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 20, 2011, 08:48:15 PM
I got my shift kit and ring & pinion install kit today. I read the instructions for the shift kit, seems EZ. This will be the first shift kit installation for me. I think I might get the shift kit installed this weekend, I hope to get the gears in too but I dont know. I dont know whats up with the weird shifting but it stopped, now its back to normal. I hope that once I take the valve body out and clean it and install the shift kit it will be fine.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: thunderjet302 on December 21, 2011, 12:21:56 AM
Is the TV cable properly adjusted?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 21, 2011, 12:29:50 AM
when you refill the trans with fluid, dump in a quart of lucas oil trans fix or stop slip or whatever they call it.. i always use it at any sign of transmission problems and it really works great.. best way to do it is to premix it with trans fluid or else you'll spend about 5-10 minutes squeezing the bottle and waiting for it to slide down the trans dipstick.. just dump half of 2 quarts of trans fluid in and split the lucas between the 1/2 quarts.. then just give it a little shake to mix it up a bit and dump it in.. i also HIGHLY recommend a new trans filter.. god only knows if they current 1 is the original or a replacement
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on December 21, 2011, 05:50:46 AM
Quote from: thunderjet302;375956
Is the TV cable properly adjusted?
X2... No point in fixing it if the tv cable isn't hooked up, or not adjusted correctly.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Haystack on December 21, 2011, 05:51:01 AM
Quote from: thunderjet302;375956
Is the TV cable properly adjusted?
X2... No point in fixing it if the tv cable isn't hooked up, or not adjusted correctly.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 21, 2011, 06:11:27 AM
The TV cable is adjusted correct, I checked it when the transmission started acting up. If the TV adjustment was off why would it be shifting fine now? I would never drop the pan without replacing the filter, the shift kit comes with one anyways. Im going to clean the valvebody while I put the shift kit in and check to make sure there are no sticking valves.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 21, 2011, 07:28:59 AM
DON'T USE BRAKE CLEANER.. it leaves a residue behind that may potentially eff your day up lol
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on December 23, 2011, 07:43:38 PM
Does anyone now how to tell the difference between the early model and late model AOD. My shift kit has two gaskets, one for each. If I use the wrong one the kit says it will F-up the pressure and burn the transmission up.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on December 23, 2011, 08:04:49 PM
hmm.. is the kit AOD-E compatible? should be able to match the gasket up to your old 1 and figure it out.. you should also do the epoxy mod while you're at it
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 06, 2012, 06:46:58 PM
Well I still havent been able to work on the car, Ive only had four days off since the new year. But I do have an update that might not make everyone happy, my cougar might be going up for sale because I have a lead on a 68 XR7 with a 351C. I needs alot of body work but it has a good tranny and a rebuilt (by The Head Shop) 351. Did those cars come with an FMX or a C4?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Clayton on March 06, 2012, 08:38:52 PM
Quote from: ClassicCougar.com;383214
The automatics offered in Cougars were the C4 (used with small block engines in 1967 and 1968), the FMX (used with 351 CID engines beginning in 1969), and normal- and heavy-duty versions of the beefier C6 transmission (the normal-duty C6 was only used in Cougars with the 390 2V engine, while much more common heavy-duty version was used with high-performance, large displacement engines, like the 390 4V, 427, CJ 428, and CJ 429. The identifiers for these transmissions (C4, FMX and C6) were Ford's in-house nomenclature
Most likely a C4 since its a '68
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 07, 2012, 09:00:50 PM
Well I was talking to the guy last night on facebook about his 68. It seemed to be going ok until I asked what he wanted for the car and he never replyed. Weird!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 23, 2012, 04:27:37 PM
OK!! Im finally going to have the weekend off. So I'm FINALLY going to install the gears, posi, and shift kit tomorrow. I can't wait. I've only had the parts laying around since before christmas. Im hoping it will be night and day, I'm kinda not impressed with the new engine right now. My next step will be the headliner, floor shifter, exhaust, and factory hub caps.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Shadow on March 23, 2012, 09:05:13 PM
hubs caps? why hub caps?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 23, 2012, 11:03:14 PM
Quote from: Shadow;385033
hubs caps? why hub caps?
Wire hub caps, to look stock. Im keeping the turbines to play.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on March 24, 2012, 09:10:07 PM
I got the gears in today but I might have to take it back apart. I rebuilt the posi and I think it might be too tight because its popping when I turn.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 01, 2012, 06:05:32 PM
The posi is fine now, it cleared up after some driving. Has anyone had any fitment issues with Pacesetter headers and H-pipe. I found a good deal on headers and h-pipe so I ordered them, just wondering if there are any issues with them.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: flylear45 on April 03, 2012, 11:22:05 PM
No input on the headers, but glad to see you got time to put in your diff. Keep on keepin' on!
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: turbotrav on April 03, 2012, 11:38:33 PM
Glad the trac-lok cleaned up for you.
Travis
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 10, 2012, 04:48:23 PM
For some reason my posi started making noise again, not bad. I might try some additive. I got my headers and h-pipe today. I cant wait to get them installed. I have a exhaust leak now and I cant wait to get it fixed. Im going to install the headers and h-pipe and take it to Big Al's down the street so they can connect the h-pipe to the lers. I'll get some pictures up her soon, I know my thread is lacking in the pictures.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 10, 2012, 08:10:18 PM
Heres some proof, I know it never happened with out pics. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Cougarexhaust001.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/Cougarexhaust002.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on April 10, 2012, 09:21:28 PM
What fluid are you using in the diff? Nice exhaust parts. That should make you happy. Do you have a floor shifter?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 11, 2012, 12:18:18 AM
Quote from: vinnietbird;386495
What fluid are you using in the diff? Nice exhaust parts. That should make you happy. Do you have a floor shifter?
No floor shifter yet. Im using 85/90 Lucas. The bottle says I doesnt need additive. I think the posi might be too tight. I still havent installed the shift kit either. Big Al's qouted me 50-85 dollars to connect the H-pipe to the exhaust.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 19, 2012, 08:08:21 PM
I got my hub caps from Eric today, they're nice. Thank you Eric. I also snapped some pictures of the engine bay. Shes a little dirty, I didnt clean when I installed the new engine. its on the to-do list. (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/cougar002.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/cougar001.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/cougar003.jpg) (http://i1115.photobucket.com/albums/k554/BruceM88/cars/cougar004.jpg)
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: vinnietbird on April 20, 2012, 07:04:32 AM
Making progress. Great job. I personally think you should be adding some bigger wheels and tires,though. It's nice to see the car becoming more of what you had wanted it to be. Keep moving forward.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: mcb82gt on April 20, 2012, 09:33:49 AM
I really like your car and making good progress, and I agree with Vinnie, on bigger wheels than 14".
What is the wire on the valve cover bolt?
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 20, 2012, 09:44:08 PM
Quote from: vinnietbird;387312
Making progress. Great job. I personally think you should be adding some bigger wheels and tires,though. It's nice to see the car becoming more of what you had wanted it to be. Keep moving forward.
I want to get 03 Cobra wheels for street fun. The wire hub caps are for shows.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on April 20, 2012, 09:46:24 PM
Quote from: mcb82gt;387322
I really like your car and making good progress, and I agree with Vinnie, on bigger wheels than 14".
What is the wire on the valve cover bolt?
Thanks! My injectors were clogged and I had a hard time starting the new motor so I added a ground wire cause my wires were getting hot. I need to remove it but I always forget.
Title: BM's 88 Cougar build
Post by: Bruce M on May 05, 2012, 06:04:08 PM
Bad news, my freaking A/C line came off the evap and now I have oil all over my new engine! This will be the third summer in a row that I'd have to fix the A/C. Not this time, its coming off, the power steering too. I hope by the end of the summer I can get a standard rotation water pump, Roush alt. bracket, and manual rack. I bet I can remove close to 100 pounds of a/c and steering . But now I need to get a car with A/c for the wife and kids.