After buying a used 94 mustang, what things should i check?

Question

I just bought a used mustang with 170,000 miles on it (65,000) on a rebuilt engine. What things should i check on it before i drive it?

Answer 1

You should have checked the car before you bought it but since it seems you already own it, here is a list of things to look for.

1. Check the condition of all the fluid levels. These fluids include:

A:  Coolant- Check when engine is cool. It should be about 1"from the top. The radiator cap should also be in good condition because it has to seal well.

B:  Oil- It should be checked for both quality and quantity.

C:  Brake Fluid- Don't let dirt in the system and it should be filled to the full mark.

D:  Power Steering- Same as Brake Fluid.

E:  Window Cleaner

F:  Transmission Fluid- If it is auto then check it with a dipstick and look for traces of dirt and metal (gray colored fluid) If it it a Manual transmission then it used ATF as well and there is a fill and drain [lug on the side of the transmission. There is no dipstick.

The next thing to check is the serpentine belt. Check it for glossy or cracked ribs. If the belt is worn or cracked, replace it.

Then check the brake pads and rotors for wear. They normally squeal when the metal indicator is letting you know it's really thin.

Check the tires for worn tread and raised portions (eggs) on the sidewall.

Check the condition of the vacuum hoses. The smallest crack or hole can hurt the performance of your car.

Check the spark plugs for excessive wear as well as the distributor cap and wires.

Check for cracked or broken wires in the engine compartment.

Check for water leaks around the heads, radiator and water pump.

Check for exhaust leaks. Also check for smoky exhaust. Black is oil, Grey/blue is excess fuel and white is water.

Inspect the suspension. If the ride is bouncy and uncomfortable, have it checked.

Replace the fuel filter and check the air filter.

Take the car for a drive. At 15-20 mph let the steering wheel go on a straight and flat road. If the car veers to a certain side then have the alignment checked. Then go to a parking lot. turn full left and right in a circle. This will tell you if you have a bad cv joint if it clicks. Play in the steering wheel is a sign of a worn rag joint or steering shaft.

If you have the tools and knowledge, then you can use a timing light to check the ignition timing. Ford sets it at 10 degrees from the factory.

You can use a compression tester with the engine off but warm and throttle open. This will tell you how well the cylinders are sealing.

You can also use a cooling system tester to tell if the head gaskets are blown or if there is a crack in either the block or heads, radiator or anywhere else in the system.