Basic maintenance questions

[20JK10]

Hi, my dad just got an 03 Marauder and we're planning on doing some basic maintenance to it. I do know it takes 5w20 oil, but how many quarts? I also know it takes 75w140 rear gear oil with the limited slip added [Mobil 1 or Royal Purple].

What plug wires do you recommend for this engine? And what spark plugs?

Is there a specific transmission fluid that is best?

Any engine sensors that should be checked or replaced at 55k?

Common problems with the 03 year?

Other input?

Thanks!

[RF Overlord]

Hi, my dad just got an 03 Marauder and we're planning on doing some basic maintenance to it. I do know it takes 5w20 oil, but how many quarts? 6

What plug wires do you recommend for this engine? There are no plug wires. It's Coil On Plug. And what spark plugs? Motorcraft or Autolite

Is there a specific transmission fluid that is best? Mercon V. Doesn't matter what brand

Any engine sensors that should be checked or replaced at 55k? No.

Common problems with the 03 year? Rear axle shafts. EATC o-rings. Headlight relay in the LCM. A/C accumulator

See red above.

[Mr. Man]

See red above.
Basically what Mr Giggles said above in Red. Spark plugs can be what ever brand you like just make sure they are for a MM.

If you come to the site often you will learn what parts poop out as there are a lot of threads about them. :)

[babbage]

My suggestion list for you at 55K with unknown service history and anyone else reading. ;)

1. Can of seafoam in oil fill 20 miles before oil change.
2. Can of seaform in the PCV valve while car is running.
3. Fuel filter - replace it. Air Filter - replace it. CRC MAF Cleaner.
4. Pan drop on transmission, you can get aftermarket pan with drain plug
for next time perhaps, reuse factory trans gasket.
Clean pan, magnet, get new trans filter, and 6 quarts of Mercon V only.
5. Rear dif for sure. 75-140 RP or other good synthetic. May need FM.
6. Fresh coolant and a new correct Ford thermostat (dealer) 4v has special bypass Make sure to read and follow this link for the cooling system, its easy to mess it up! http://reischeperformance.com/refill.html
7. Would recommend synthetic 5w-30 oil (just a bit more protection) and Motorcraft FL820S Filter - others may not have good anti-drain back valve (dry cams on start!)
8. Plugs I recommend NGK TR6, cops and boots might be ok at 55K. Be careful as these are aluminum heads with 4 threads on plug holes. HAND thread in new plugs to start so you dont cross thread them.

New performance water pump EMP Stuart is about $150.00 might be a good idea.You can also syphon out your power steering fluid (car is off) and replace it with Lucas power steering fluid.


Good luck.

[20JK10]

Thanks for the info. It will get us in the right direction.

[ctrlraven]

For the rear diff, 3 quarts are needed.

The spark plugs babbage recommended above are one stage colder plugs, without having a tune you would want NGK TR55 plugs which are stock heat range but gap should be checked .052-.054 only IF you decided to go with NGK brand plugs.