SHO!
The car was located across the road from one of the wild blueberry fields I worked in this summer, and come to find out, the seller is related to the owner of the field. Small world, eh? The drive out to wild blueberry country was great - the foliage, the cool crips air, the winding country roads, blah blah baloney, but as soon as I got to the SHO, it started raining. WTF.
It's red! I like red. The seller goes into the passenger side to unlock the driver's door, then gets in and fires 'er up... it runs, sputters and dies. Several tries later, it fired up and settled into a normal idle. Could this be caused by the crank position sensor? She has a new one in hand, and claims it will solve the problem. I got down in a push up position and took a look at the undercarriage before the gravel lot could turn to mud. It looked good, with no obvious leaks or rust problems. With the hood up, I could hear a squeal from the front of the motor - a pulley might need a bearing, but it eventually quiets down. A few blips on the throttle revealed no other unusual noises.
I've had enough of that, it's time to drive... I sink into the black, leather-trimmed bucket seats - the side bolsters are huge and supportive, yet cushy. The interior is in bad need of cleaning - sticky spills with dog hair, dirty windows, floors covered in sand. Under the filth, however, the interior appears to be in good shape - no tears in the upholstry, no cracks in the plastic, everything is there. I push the clutch in - it's hydraulic, and feels like any Ranger or Mustang from the same era - that is, appropriately stiff and smooth, yet a bit lacking in feel. The shifter leans in towards the driver and is tight, if a bit vague and notchy. Here we go... wipers? Check. Defroster? Check. The roads are now soaked with rain, so I take off easy in 1st gear but once in 2nd, I give the go pedal a little playful stab - oh yeah... it's packing heat. From the driver's seat, I would swear I'm driving some kind of muscle car. I go easy through the rest of the gears to get familiar with the gates and the clutch. Cruising down the highway, the steering pulls to the right, but is easy to compensate for because the feedback is excellent. Yeah, it needs an alignment, and some new tires to boot. The ABS is on the fritz, engaging for no reason - wheel speed sensors? Nevermind that, I'll just take the ABS fuse out, since I don't care for it anyway.
After cruising down Route 1 for a while, I find a good turn around point and get back on the highway, this time I want to see how it goes in 1st gear. I let the clutch out, then ease into the throttle and get it almost to the floor before the front tires start fighting for traction - I let off so the tires can regain their grip, but it keeps going! And going! Foot off the throttle, pinned back in my seat, I push the clutch in and the motor ferociously shoots up to 7,000 rpm and bounces off the rev limiter... quickly, I cut the ignition, pull the gas pedal up with my foot, put it in 3rd gear and let the clutch out... it takes off again! I shut 'er down, and pull off the road. The seller may need to change her pants now, but I don't have time for shenanigans. I pop the hood and take a look at the throttle linkage - it is stuck open, alright. Is the the cruise control actuator is the culprit? I'm not sure, but I disconnect it from the throttle linkage and check the return action - it's good now. It starts up on the first try and idles normally.
I take it easy from there on, just in case the throttle sticks again. Besides, I already know this is no ordinary Taurus.
These are the problems that I know of:
- Crankshaft Position Sensor
- ABS
- Driver's door lock
- Squeaky accessory pulley
- Needs tires and alignment
- Last timing belt change and valve adjustment are unknown
- Speedo needle a little bouncy - may need a cable soon
Reason for selling? She has a Forester now - she needed a 4wd car for the winter. Otherwise, she was planning on keeping the SHO and had done considerable work on it with that in mind. She fully admits that it is a high maintenece car. The inspection sticker is two months old. I don't think it's a lemon, but it does need some TLC. For $1000, I can't expect much more. Besides, I think it would be a great learning experience for an automotive student.
:mrcool:
Do it.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 04:29:04 PM
Give me one good reason why I should.
It's not a Jetta.
Quote from: Laconian on October 05, 2008, 04:37:44 PM
Bananifold.
That is one.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vWm47yPLGc
I remember Will (AutobahnSHO) saying that the motors require regular crank bearing replacement.... or something like that :huh: He didn't go it on her car and his motor ate itself.... or something like that :huh:
Point is, PM him, see what he thinks. I also remember him saying that there were some good SHO forums here and very helpful people on there. Get the linky from Will, go on the forum and ask about common troubles with SHOs so you have a better idea of whether or not this is a good buy.
Quote from: Danish on October 05, 2008, 05:01:56 PM
I remember Will (AutobahnSHO) saying that the motors require regular crank bearing replacement.... or something like that :huh: He didn't go it on her car and his motor ate itself.... or something like that :huh:
Point is, PM him, see what he thinks. I also remember him saying that there were some good SHO forums here and very helpful people on there. Get the linky from Will, go on the forum and ask about common troubles with SHOs so you have a better idea of whether or not this is a good buy.
He has already been helping me out... in secret. :mask: :ohyeah: :lol:
:mask:
So you think you might get this over the Saab?
Quote from: Danish on October 05, 2008, 05:06:37 PM
So you think you might get this over the Saab?
I
want this over the Saab. Whether or not I get it is a question of money. I expect to be paid my financial aid this week (FINALLY!), but until then I'm flat broke. I've been living out of pocket with no income for over a month now.
In all honesty- I'd go for the crapbox most likely to remain reliable. Think "mid '80s small block Chevy four door with a hydramatic." Think "grandma car." Think '88 Caprice owned by a church deacon.
I like SHOs, especially the V6 "real" SHOs. Run like a chimp on skates when they run; but they can and do break more often than your average bear.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:17:38 PM
In all honesty- I'd go for the crapbox most likely to remain reliable. Think "mid '80s small block Chevy four door with a hydramatic." Think "grandma car." Think '88 Caprice owned by a church deacon.
I like SHOs, especially the V6 "real" SHOs. Run like a chimp on skates when they run; but they can and do break more often than your average bear.
I wonder if the timing belt breaks, does the whole engine explode like M-power's Contour's? Other than that, I don't see how it would be so bad. It's just a Taurus.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 05:24:06 PM
I wonder if the timing belt breaks, does the whole engine explode like M-power's Contour's? Other than that, I don't see how it would be so bad. It's just a Taurus.
Yes. it does. And yes, its just a Taurus. A Taurus with a limited production high compression Yamaha engine.
What could posibly go wrong?
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:25:27 PM
Yes. it does. And yes, its just a Taurus. A Taurus with a limited production high compression Yamaha engine.
What could posibly go wrong?
Every Yamaha I've owned has been so reliable, I eventually got bored and started taking things apart for no apparent reason.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 05:27:50 PM
Every Yamaha I've owned has been so reliable, I eventually got bored and started taking things apart for no apparent reason.
Well according to Soup, you will have a reason for
this one! :devil:
Just giving you my two cents, man.
Quote from: Danish on October 05, 2008, 05:32:55 PM
Well according to Soup, you will have a reason for this one! :devil:
May, just
may. I wish him the best of luck, and there are certainly worse options.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:33:13 PM
Just giving you my two cents, man.
I know... but dammit, it's a cool car, and dammit, I have a shop where I can work on it, and dammit if it breaks and I can't afford to fix it right away I can take the bus to school, althought it is very inconvenient. I'd rather dump money into a SHO than an automatic non-tuerbow Saab 900.
I think you should get something small, fuel-efficient, reliable, cheap, and easy to find parts for. Therefore, while both the Saab and the SHO rock, do yourself a favor and buy something with a non-interference engine, a manual transmission, and good gas mileage. A Civic, Impreza, Corolla, newer Escort, or Saturn come to mind.
You don't have a full-time job and you need reliable transportation. Think with your brain this time -- not your heart.
Yamaha made the V8 for Volvo's XC90. They also make pianos and speakers. And outboard engines. And maybe violins. And motorcycles. Ford makes F-150s and used to make dump trucks.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 05:36:13 PM
I know... but dammit, it's a cool car, and dammit, I have a shop where I can work on it, and dammit if it breaks and I can't afford to fix it right away I can take the bus to school, althought it is very inconvenient. I'd rather dump money into a SHO than an automatic non-tuerbow Saab 900.
You haven't been listening: I'm not recommending either of those cars- although if you force me to choose between the two, I'd go with the SHO. Smog era BOF V8/hydramatic GM product in "grandma driven/ garage kept" condition. You can find one for $1000, and you can drive it till it rusts off the frame.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 05:37:25 PM
I think you should get something small, fuel-efficient, reliable, cheap, and easy to find parts for. Therefore, while both the Saab and the SHO rock, do yourself a favor and buy something with a non-interference engine, a manual transmission, and good gas mileage. A Civic, Impreza, Corolla, newer Escort, or Saturn come to mind.
You don't have a full-time job and you need reliable transportation. Think with your brain this time -- not your heart.
Civic (up through 2005) was an interference engine.
And to the original topic, my vote is no. When buying cars in the $1K range and not having a ton of money for repairs, fast and/or rare just isn't a good choice. I'd look for something a bit more mundane if I were you. Even something like a Volvo 240 wagon would be a better choice, IMO.
And yes, I know what you are going through, I test drove and seriously thought about buying (even got an insurance quote) an SVT Contour not too long ago. Sweet car, but I just can't be dumping a ton of money into my vehicle right now. And now that the Proteg? appears to be over it's fondness for blowing out rear brake calipers, I'm pretty content with it.
Keep the Jetta for the time being, and locate something a bit more robust.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:41:17 PM
You haven't been listening: I'm not recommending either of those cars- although if you force me to choose between the two, I'd go with the SHO. Smog era BOF V8/hydramatic GM product in "grandma driven/ garage kept" condition. You can find one for $1000, and you can drive it till it rusts off the frame.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/866585077.html :rockon: :lol:
Seriously, that would be pretty cool... I like those.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:41:17 PM
Smog era BOF V8/hydramatic GM product in "grandma driven/ garage kept" condition. You can find one for $1000, and you can drive it till it rusts off the frame.
Heh, I'm tempted to do that. With some basic bolt ons, a shift kit, and some suspension goodies (all with wheels/hub caps and bodywork, naturally), you'd have some fun!
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 05:45:37 PM
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/866585077.html :rockon: :lol:
Seriously, that would be pretty cool... I like those.
That's more like it!
Quote from: The Pirate on October 05, 2008, 05:44:45 PM
Civic (up through 2005) was an interference engine.
And to the original topic, my vote is no. When buying cars in the $1K range and not having a ton of money for repairs, fast and/or rare just isn't a good choice. I'd look for something a bit more mundane if I were you. Even something like a Volvo 240 wagon would be a better choice, IMO.
And yes, I know what you are going through, I test drove and seriously thought about buying (even got an insurance quote) an SVT Contour not too long ago. Sweet car, but I just can't be dumping a ton of money into my vehicle right now. And now that the Proteg? appears to be over it's fondness for blowing out rear brake calipers, I'm pretty content with it.
Keep the Jetta for the time being, and locate something a bit more robust.
Maybe I should learn my lesson from the V8Q, but it's a dumb lesson. :lol:
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:49:38 PM
That's more like it!
The old non-electrical hydramatics are one of the few kind automatics that I can actually enjoy. I bet that's a 2.8 or 4.3 V6, and I could live with that. If it's a 305, that'll work too.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 05:52:55 PM
The old non-electrical hydramatics are one of the few kind automatics that I can actually enjoy. I bet that's a 2.8 or 4.3 V6, and I could live with that. If it's a 305, that'll work too.
Nick: Common sense. Use it.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/840599976.html
That Monte is tempting, though.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 05:56:24 PM
Nick: Common sense. Use it.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/840599976.html
That Monte is tempting, though.
Absolutely shameless :rolleyes:
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 05:56:24 PM
Nick: Common sense. Use it.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/840599976.html
That Monte is tempting, though.
Read between the lines: the sellers have enough of a relationship with their mechanic they consider him to be "their mechanic."
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:59:21 PM
Read between the lines: the sellers have enough of a relationship with their mechanic they consider him to be "their mechanic."
The SHO owner has a mechanic, too. We drove past the shop.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:01:24 PM
The SHO owner has a mechanic, too. We drove past the shop.
What does that say to you?
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:59:21 PM
Read between the lines: the sellers have enough of a relationship with their mechanic they consider him to be "their mechanic."
But they've done all of the basic work that those cars are known for being problematic with: Timing belt, and I assume head gaskets at that mileage (those engines rarely make it to 120k without a headgasket overhaul).
Besides, I have "my" mechanic back home. Does that make my car inherently unreliable?
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:01:58 PM
What does that say to you?
Their home garage also had tools scattered all over the place, and what looked like a few old SHO parts.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:02:13 PM
But they've done all of the basic work that those cars are known for being problematic with: Timing belt, and I assume head gaskets at that mileage (those engines rarely make it to 120k without a headgasket overhaul).
Besides, I have "my" mechanic back home. Does that make my car inherently unreliable?
Its not a good sign if you were to feel a need to mention it when selling the car, is it? And gods, you know the headgaskets fail every 120,000 and you think its a reliable car?
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:03:09 PM
Their home garage also had tools scattered all over the place, and what looked like a few old SHO parts.
Read between the lines "I'm giving up on this POS, I hope I can offfload it for a decent price."
economical?
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/866055720.html
Less than 10,000 miles a year!
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/858972404.html
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:05:08 PM
economical?
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/866055720.html
No.
Just No.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:05:03 PM
Read between the lines "I'm giving up on this POS, I hope I can offfload it for a decent price."
She "needs 4wd for the winter". She was driving a new FOrester.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:05:46 PM
She "needs 4wd for the winter". She was driving a new FOrester.
I've told people a lot of things to sell cars too.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:06:37 PM
I've told people a lot of things to sell cars too.
So you're one of those people :rage: :partyon:
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:04:13 PM
Its not a good sign if you were to feel a need to mention it when selling the car, is it? And gods, you know the headgaskets fail every 120,000 and you think its a reliable car?
Subaru made those engines with thin headgaskets. Most were replaced under recall. I have an EJ25D in my garage right now, and yes, I think the engine is reliable -- no less than a Toyota Camry "sludger," and maybe a lot more so.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:07:39 PM
So you're one of those people :rage: :partyon:
The last guy was a jehovah's witness. He deserved it.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:08:34 PM
The last guy was a jehovah's witness. He deserved it.
Jehovah's witnesses don't drive SHOs.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:09:22 PM
Jehovah's witnesses don't drive SHOs.
I know one that did.
Nick:
My friend had one of these with 260k on it. They're reliable.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/846006913.html
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:07:48 PM
Subaru made those engines with thin headgaskets. Most were replaced under recall. I have an EJ25D in my garage right now, and yes, I think the engine is reliable -- no less than a Toyota Camry "sludger," and maybe a lot more so.
In your garage, or in your car? Because you know, its hard to tell how reliable it is sitting on an engine stand.
Just due to the simple number of used parts available for them, it just makes more sense to go old and domestic when shopping for cars in this price range; and the more mundane and common the mechanicals are, the better.
When the last automotive ICE on earth finally dies, I'd put good money on it being an aircooled VW 4, an old Mercedes diesel, or a carbureted Chevy small block.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:11:10 PM
Nick:
My friend had one of these with 260k on it. They're reliable.
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/846006913.html
Some people have SHos with 260k. I fail to see your point. Look at that riceboy muffler. Obvious sign of abuse.
I'm just saying get something sensible.
http://www.rs25.com/forums/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=302
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:24:28 PM
I'm just saying get something sensible.
http://www.rs25.com/forums/vbclassified.php?do=ad&id=302
Fine. I'll get the Monte Carlo.
It's funny, I actually happen to have a set of new springs that will fit on the rear of a Monte Carlo, and a carburetor, and I think some shocks, but definately my coffee can muffler would have to find its way on there, just to be ridiculous.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:26:04 PM
Fine. I'll get the Monte Carlo.
When you have the time, energy, and money, then you should get something exotic...like a DOHC Z34 Monte Carlo.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:40:54 PM
When you have the time, energy, and money, then you should get something exotic...like a DOHC Z34 Monte Carlo.
That can only be worse than a SHO. Can you even get a manual? :nono:
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:41:38 PM
That can only be worse than a SHO. Can you even get a manual? :nono:
They did come in 5-speed, too.
I think an AWD Pontiac 6000 would kick ass, too, but those only came with the 3-speed auto.
SHO > all
hehehe
The bouncing speedo is related to the crank sensor.
Seriously you'd spend the purchase price on maintenance in the first year of ownership...
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on October 05, 2008, 06:46:21 PM
hehehe
The bouncing speedo is related to the crank sensor.
Seriously you'd spend the purchase price on maintenance in the first year of ownership...
Good, I can cross the speedo cable off the list of problems! :praise:
$1000/year is piddle poo. $1000/month would kill me.
If I don't buy this SHO now, it will haunt me for the rest of my life.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:52:11 PM
If I don't buy this SHO now, it will haunt me for the rest of my life.
(http://www.4usedaudiparts.com/new_arrivals/320x240/001076_pf.jpg)
Think about it.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:52:11 PM
If I don't buy this SHO now, it will haunt me for the rest of my life.
Oh get off it. its a SHO. Its not the TVR tasmin 280i I failed to buy for $800 in 2001, and it sure as hell aint the
running and original Bugatti Type-35 I didn't buy in '95 for $3500.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:54:14 PM
Oh get off it. its a SHO. Its not the TVR tasmin 280i I failed to buy for $800 in 2001, and it sure as hell aint the running and original Bugatti Type-35 I didn't buy in '95 for $3500.
You should hate your life. Really.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:54:14 PM
Oh get off it. its a SHO. Its not the TVR tasmin 280i I failed to buy for $800 in 2001, and it sure as hell aint the running and original Bugatti Type-35 I didn't buy in '95 for $3500.
WTF is wrong with you
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:53:31 PM
(http://www.4usedaudiparts.com/new_arrivals/320x240/001076_pf.jpg)
Think about it.
The V8Q never let me down. I let it down.
It seems like, with SHO's, you want to buy one with low mileage and maintenance records, even if those cars are a lot more expensive. I suppose that's how it is with most high-performance type cars...
I agree with Soup. Small block Chevy in a gramma car.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 06:56:43 PM
Thanks.
I've seen a 280i sell for about $7000 so that's not a big deal. It's the $500,000 Bugatti that is.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:56:14 PM
WTF is wrong with you
TVR: I was afraid of the project at the time, and my ability to finish it. I had also just bought my first house.
Bugatti: by the time I got the funds together, it disappeared. It was probably stolen. The owner had it out in front of his barn like it was an old Case tractor or something.
And what do you suppose a 1993 SHO would go for once I restore it to it's original glory? Probably around $1111!11!!111!!1!!one. Yeah. It's an investment in my future.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 06:58:14 PM
I've seen a 280i sell for about $7000 so that's not a big deal. It's the $500,000 Bugatti that is.
"Common" Type 35s don't sell for that. a 35 SC, sure. One with a known racing history, maybe. This would have been a restored $150,000 car, unless I found out something special about it.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:07:39 PM
So you're one of those people :rage: :partyon:
You forget my master bullshittery/stupid buyer experience in selling my Accord.
[rationalizing]
This car passed inspection two months ago. This is a great project for a student of the automobile, and when I'm done going through every system and fixing everything, including things that don't need fixing, it will be running better than new. I don't have to pay for labor - in fact, I get extra credit for labor. Parts I pay for, but with a good student discount for common replacement parts at Napa. I can do anything with the suspension, steering and electrical this semester. I will completely rebuild the engine next semester. Next year, I will rebuild the transaxle.
[/rationalizing]
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 07:19:16 PM
[rationalizing]
This car passed inspection two months ago. This is a great project for a student of the automobile, and when I'm done going through every system and fixing everything, including things that don't need fixing, it will be running better than new. I don't have to pay for labor - in fact, I get extra credit for labor. Parts I pay for, but with a good student discount for common replacement parts at Napa. I can do anything with the suspension, steering and electrical this semester. I will completely rebuild the engine next semester. Next year, I will rebuild the transaxle.
[/rationalizing]
OK, I will say that if you now have the access to the tools you need and an available place to work on the car, we should worry less about the SHO being "AudiQuattroed."
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 07:29:08 PM
OK, I will say that if you now have the access to the tools you need and an available place to work on the car, we should worry less about the SHO being "AudiQuattroed."
I don't like this new word of yours.
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 07:32:16 PM
I don't like this new word of yours.
You have no sense. You're trying to rationalize the purchase of something completely irrational. Every time you've done so in the past, you've gotten burned for it.
I've had one car -- my Impreza -- from February 2006 until now. How many cars have you gone through in the same amount of time?
Quote from: Secret Chimp on October 05, 2008, 07:17:06 PM
You forget my master bullshittery/stupid buyer experience in selling my Accord.
I did. Linky?
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 07:37:39 PM
You have no sense. You're trying to rationalize the purchase of something completely irrational. Every time you've done so in the past, you've gotten burned for it.
I've had one car -- my Impreza -- from February 2006 until now. How many cars have you gone through in the same amount of time?
Dude, whatever. You're just jealous of all his sweet cars. 0_o ChrisV should show up in here. :lol:
NACar-- So long as you know what the commitment is going to be (lots of time and money), and you're really willing to commit to it, I say go for it. Also realize that you'll probably somehow get bored of it in a year. :lol:
Quote from: Psilos on October 05, 2008, 07:45:40 PM
I did. Linky?
I don't remember where I posted it. Basically I told him like it was a fact that the first timing belt change was done at 105k when I have no idea when it was done and hid the smell of oil that came through the vents on acceleration (never knew what that was) by leaving the recirculate button on the whole time and hoping he never touched it (which he didn't). He also didn't pay attention to the crap brakes and I made up a bunch of shit as shop-done or assisted by a Honda tech from the plant in Marysville instead of "I deed errything lol". With the cold mornings we're having now that thing is shifting brrrmmmmAAAAAAAAmmmmmmmmMMAOOOHmmmm again... oh lord bless warm weather...
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 07:37:39 PM
You have no sense. You're trying to rationalize the purchase of something completely irrational. Every time you've done so in the past, you've gotten burned for it.
I've had one car -- my Impreza -- from February 2006 until now. How many cars have you gone through in the same amount of time?
False, I have rarely been burned by the cars themselves. Maybe one time when I bought a V8Q, that's it.
It's eleven, by the way.
what ever happened to that suzuki by the way?
Quote from: J86 on October 05, 2008, 08:05:58 PM
what ever happened to that suzuki by the way?
I've had four Suzukis. You'll have to specify.
holy hell. that green wagon
Quote from: J86 on October 05, 2008, 08:12:47 PM
holy hell. that green wagon
timing belt broke, didn't want to bother fixing it, sent it to the junkyard
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 08:14:11 PM
timing belt broke, didn't want to bother fixing it, sent it to the junkyard
i was wondering if it had an issue or if you just got tired :lol:
whats your average time of ownership?
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 07:00:28 PM
"Common" Type 35s don't sell for that. a 35 SC, sure. One with a known racing history, maybe. This would have been a restored $150,000 car, unless I found out something special about it.
Oh yeah, that makes it a
lot better
Quote from: Danish on October 05, 2008, 08:43:15 PM
Oh yeah, that makes it a lot better
Shut up! I hate you!
Quote from: NACar on October 05, 2008, 06:52:11 PM
If I don't buy this SHO now, it will haunt me for the rest of my life.
No! It won't.
I would recommend a Miata for cheap, economical and easy to fix, but you also live in Maine and I'd worry about what you'd do to a Miata no matter where you lived.
Quote from: Secret Chimp on October 05, 2008, 09:37:11 PM
I would recommend a Miata for cheap, economical and easy to fix, but you also live in Maine and I'd worry about what you'd do to a Miata no matter where you lived.
Aint nobody buyin' a drivable Miatter for less than a grand!
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 09:47:34 PM
Aint nobody buyin' a drivable Miatter for less than a grand!
Shit won August's 24 Hours of LeMons, son.
Quote from: Secret Chimp on October 05, 2008, 10:16:38 PM
Shit won August's 24 Hours of LeMons, son.
Then they fudged the numbers; and Nick's car needs to last longer than 24 hours.
It needs to last for at least 30 pages!
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 09:11:33 PM
Shut up! I hate you!
Hey, didn't you used to have a S2000?
Quote from: Danish on October 05, 2008, 10:46:38 PM
Hey, didn't you used to have a S2000?
Excuse me, I need to go get incredibly, unforgivably, completely pathetically drunk.
Think it's had regular fluid changes and necessary repairs? It's sounds like a neglected POS owned by a very unknowledgeable car person.
IMO it'd cost too much if it were free.
It will cost you thousands to fix and many hours to keep on the road for any length of time. If that's what you want, go for it, but it doesn't sound like it.
If remain compelled beyond all rational reason, don't dare offer more than $250.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 11:09:38 PM
Excuse me, I need to go get incredibly, unforgivably, completely pathetically drunk.
Holy shit, yes.
:lol:
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 05, 2008, 05:41:17 PM
Smog era BOF V8/hydramatic GM product in "grandma driven/ garage kept" condition. You can find one for $1000, and you can drive it till it rusts off the frame.
Do want.
Quote from: omicron on October 06, 2008, 09:43:34 AM
Do want.
for seriously?
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/866585077.html
That Monte must be sold already. I guess that just leaves the SHO.
Ford Taurus SHO
created by meyerr
(thing) by perplexion (5.2 mon) (print) (I like it!) 4 C!s Mon Dec 12 2005 at 19:49:36
History
The Idea
The Ford Taurus SHO was somewhat a peculiarity in the automotive world, and still is. The initial idea was conceived in the 1980's, the progeny of Ford Motor Company and Yamaha. Ford and Yamaha entered into a contract for the development and production of a high tech V-6 powerplant to be used in an exotic sports car. The sports car project died but the contract survived and Ford was obligated to complete the deal.
After what I am sure was copious amounts of alcohol, the decision was made inexplicably to put the engine into a high-performance version of Ford's high-volume mid-sized sedan, the Taurus. It is believed to have been due to their lack of a car to compete with the German made BMW 5-series. And so the SHO was born.
The Debut
The first Taurus SHO hit dealer lots as a 1989 model year (MY). It sported "24V DOHC" badging, aggressive styling accents, dual exhaust pipes and the letters "S H O" emblazoned on the rear bumper. It was available in standard Ford colors, and could be outfitted with various options including leather and a sliding moonroof. There was no automatic transission - only manual.
Sales were never all that spectacular. This was by all accounts a tragic miscalculation by Ford execs. Anyone in the market for performance was buying the popular Mustang GT, and the Taurus was selling like hotcakes but only to the family crowd. Most who bought the SHO model just wanted a top-of-the-line Taurus. A few buyers actually were looking for an alternative to the BMW 530i and other european sedans, but not a lot. This trend was to haunt the SHO throughout its 11 year tour of duty.
The Evolution
The Taurus SHO went through two major makeovers - once in MY 1992 (known as Gen 2) and again in MY 1996 (known as Gen 3). The first was mostly cosmetic updates to the sheet metal, as well as the front and rear fascias. The second was a radical redesign, when Ford introduced the oval look, which was met with mixed reviews. At the same time they put a small V-8 in to replace the V-6 and took away the manual transmission. (I will not mention the 3rd generation any further due to lack of knowledge.) There were also minor updates to the interior and exterior from time to time, which the savvy could use to distinguish one model year from another. The 1991+ (commonly referred to as a "Plus") came with a fiberglass "bulge" hood, spoiler, different paint options, and for some an improved shifter. After MY 1992 the manual transmission was joined by an automatic.
The Car
Basically the Taurus SHO was a so-so car wrapped around an amazing engine. The Ford Taurus, like every other high-volume production car, was no engineering marvel. It shook, rattled and rolled, thanks to its cheap construction and weak suspension. Parts were fond of breaking long before they should. The SHO was little better in stock form. But the engine...oh, the engine!
Powertrain
Opening the hood rewarded one with a view of the heart and soul of the SHO. Almost all of what you would see is the incredible intake plenum devised to extract the very last drop of power. This is commonly referred to as the "snakes", as the visual effect is similar to a nest of vipers.
The Yamaha V-6 consisted of an iron block with six cylinders arranged in a sixty degree V configuration and hemishperical aluminum heads. It had dual overhead cams and 24 valves total. What this means is that each bank of cylinders was topped by two camshafts which operated 6 intake valves and 6 exhaust valves each. Total displacement was 3.0 liters for manual transmission models, and 3.2 liters for automatic (This was devised to compensate for parasitic losses inherent in automatic transmissions). The ingenious intake system was made up of a mass air flow {MAF} sensor feeding air through the throttle body into two large surge tanks, which subsequently emptied into twelve runners, two for each cylinder. Vacuum actuated butterfly valves would open the secondary, shorter set of runners at about 4000 RPM, resulting in an alteration in dynamics more favorable to producing torque at higher engine speeds. Fuel delivery happened via electronically controlled multi point fuel injection, and spark was delivered by an advanced distributorless ignition system (DIS).
The 5-speed manual transmission in the Taurus SHO was a carryover from the much lesser Ford Tempo. Though nothing impressive, it got the job done. The automatic transmission was similarly unremarkable: four speeds with overdrive and a floor shifter.
Exterior
Unibody construction made up of mostly sheet metal with some plastic cladding. Major plastic parts included the skirting and front/rear bumper covers and air dams. Most model years featured clearcoat paint. MY 1993 and later came with a rear lip spoiler standard.
Interior
The interior in the SHO was Taurus standard issue. Tan, grey or (I believe) black. The bench seat in the back could accommodate two adults quite comfortably, three slightly less so. The front bucket seats offered excellent support, with adjustable lumbar and side bolsters for added stability. The center console provided an armrest with storage. Cupholders in earlier model years were just the sort that pop out from beneath the stereo, later replaced by ones molded into the console. The stereo was a standard Ford or an optional JBL deck. Basic controls were located on the steering wheel for convenience. The JBL option also included upgraded speakers with a subwoofer under the back windshield.
Common Problems
The Taurus SHO can often become a money pit if not properly maintained. Unfortunately for you, if you have recently bought one you probably got it used, and this is beyond your control. So, here is a heads up on what you might expect
Accessories - those little gadgets on the front of your engine like the alternator, power steering pump, air conditioner and so on - do not tend to last long on high performance engines what with all the extreme conditions they have to put up with. Expect to replace them on a fairly regular basis if your driving has any kind of soul.
The weak manual transmission is another problem spot. There are parts you will probably never see, like the differential pin, that will inevitably fly loose with no warning and wreck everything inside. The automatic can have its share of problems, but not so many. For both, half shafts (commonly known as CV joints) can sometimes require repair.
The brakes and assorted suspension components are all Ford, so don't be surprised when the calipers stick, rotors warp and bushings fall apart.
Watch for oil leaks around the valve covers, the oil sensor, spark plug tube seals and (heaven forbid) the rear main seal. These are notorious for leaking and can result in collateral damage like sensors, starter motors and such.
Speaking of sensors, with any driveability issues those are what you should check first. The throttle position sensor, camshaft position sensor, crankshaft position sensor, vehicle speed sensor and coolant temperature sensor are among things that can cause odd symptoms that are hard to track down.
Odd things. You might see condensation droplets in your headlights. Use a dremel tool to drill a small drain hole in the bottom of the housing. If your air conditioning runs warm, the clutch that engages the pulley is not making contact. Take off the pulley and remove one of the shims from the hub and you are back in business (it's easier than it sounds). Also, after changing a coolant thermostat, you may experience overheating due to air lock in the system. Strange as it sounds, you may have to rock the engine and squeeze various coolant hoses to remove the bubble. For the love of all things beautiful, do not run the car with the temperature gauge anywhere near the red! Aluminum heads warp easily and can be expensive to fix.
Performance!
This is what this car was all about: performance. While it was no Corvette or Porsche, it was and still is a force to be reckoned with. At the time of its release, no other mainstream sedan could touch it. Now, only the best can surpass it in numbers, and arguably there is still nothing like it in terms of pure driving exhilaration. Piloting the SHO conveyed a soul factor of 10.
The 3.0 V-6 produced 220 horsepower and 200 ft-lbs of torque. The all-important torque curve was very broad, thanks to the dual-runner intake. It would wind all the way up to 7200RPM before the computer cut the fuel injectors. Although it was capable of higher engine speeds, the engine was tuned so that power peaked around 5400RPM. Anything much higher would be of little use. The 3.2 V-6 had similar characteristics, but with slightly more power. With manual transmission, the SHO could accelerate from 0 to 60mph in about 6.5 seconds. Quarter mile times ran in the low 15 seconds. Automatic transmission SHO's turned out times roughly a second higher. The car could reach 145mph and beyond. I can personally attest to this.
Handling performance was quite decent, unlike what you would expect from a mid-sized sedan. The unibody was surprisingly stiff, with little flex. MacPherson struts on all four corners did well at dampening suspension travel. Skidpad performance was accordingly excellent, with scores between 0.85 and 0.89 G's. Its favorable handling attributes made the SHO acceptable for autocross use.
Modification
Compared to the Ford Mustang, the Taurus SHO lacked woefully in aftermarket support. Thanks to a small but enthusiastic fan base, however, there are a number of modifications available to enhance the driving experience. There is a speed shop in California called The SHO Shop devoted almost exclusively to the car. Other outlets are available as well, like the club-owned Cincy SHO and a small operation called SP Performance.
For those on a budget, there are a few modifications to begin with, some costing nothing but a little time and effort. Removing the ungainly silencer cone and/or box from the driver side fender is a popular one. At the very least it results in a pleasing intake growl, and possibly a few extra horsepower from eliminating the restriction. To further improve the air intake, add a high-flow OEM filter replacement, such as a K&N or Fram. Do not compromise the airbox, however, by doing things like drilling holes in the side to "increase flow". You will only draw in warm engine bay air, which is bad for performance. Upgrading spark plugs and wires, and enhancing the grounding system with low-gauge wire can potentially improve ignition performance, so it is worth a try. Doing all of the above-mentioned modifications will cost very litte, but don't expect a huge gain either.
One can spend significantly more for only a little more improvement, but this doesn't deter the amateur enthusiast. Remember, most modifications will compound each other's benefits, so don't lose hope if one thing doesn't shave a second off your quarter mile time. What you want to do is focus on the intake and exhaust unless you really have a lot to spend.
A good place to start is to eliminate the airbox and replace it with a cold air intake (CAI). The SHO Shop offers a popular setup that will isolate a cone filter from the warm engine bay. You can also find one elsewhere, or do it yourself. In conjunction, you can also replace the stock MAF housing with one that is larger. The idea is not so much to reduce restriction but to improve the sensor's resolution. The stock unit measures 55mm, and aftermarket replacements go all the way up to 80mm in diameter. The next component downstream is the throttle body, which is much more of a restriction than the mass air flow sensor. It can be taken to a machine shop and bored out, or just replaced with one from a place like The SHO Shop that has already been done. This modification is widely debated, so use your own discretion. The final stage of intake modification is the intake plenum itself. Through a process called extrude honing, where abrasive clay is forced through the runners at high pressure, the throughput of the intake runners can be increased. This should be accompanied by replacement of the secondary butterfly valves. By doing all of this, you are making more oxygen available to the engine to mix with fuel, theoretically resulting in an increase in power.
Similar importance must be placed on assisting exit from the engine through the exhaust. Exhaust dynamics are a bit more complicated, however. The goal is not to reduce restriction as much as possible, as it is with the intake. Actually, the engine depends on what is called backpressure to make torque, especially at low engine speeds. Eliminating too much backpressure results in lost torque and thereby lower performance. Instead concentrate on improving flow characteristics. Exhaust exits the engine from two sides of the engine. The stock exhaust system does a poor job of facilitating this exodus. There are replacements available for pretty much every part along the way: headers, Y-pipes and catalytic converters. Headers can be very tricky to get right, but the latter two are quite effective. Replacements for the exhaust piping from the catalytic converters back are known as cat-back exhaust systems (almost poetic, isn't it?). They rely on larger pipes and smoother bends to carry the exhaust gas on the rest of its journey. Whether configured the same as OEM or in true dual or single forms, these systems vary in quality and effectiveness. They can also be moderately expensive. Finally, the mufflers may be replaced with a variety of different aftermarket units, the main difference being sound. Sound is an important consideration when selecting an exhaust for the SHO. Being a 60-degree V-6, it can sound quite terrible if done wrong, and that is very easy to do. Sometimes this requires some experimentation.
Without going into more serious modifications, what remains is the engine control module, or computer. Yes, much of the modern car's performance characteristics are determined in that little black box. Those characteristics can be altered through a "chip" plugged into the service port of the computer. There are products available from the big makers like Superchips and Hypertech that achieve modest gains (5-10hp) through modified fuel and ignition tables. If that isn't enough for you, about twice as much money can buy you a custom unit called a Lifetime Performance Module (LPM) programmed by Ted Breaux, a really smart guy that knows a lot about Ford's programming. The LPM can be tailored to your specific car, and can be reprogrammed when you add new modifications. This is a powerful tool.
In the end, intake, exhaust and computer modifications can afford you possibly 20 or so extra horsepower and probably an appreciably better driving experience. One might also inexpensively add underdrive pulleys and a lightweight flywheel if mechanically inclined. If you are really hungry for speed you can spend and get a whole lot more. A popular trick is forced induction, pressurizing the intake charge using a supercharger or turbocharger. These are basically small turbines, driven by either engine power in the case of a supercharger, or heat transfer from exhaust gasses as with a turbo. Virtually always done in conjunction with many, many other mods, forced induction results in massive horsepower gains, between 50 and 100 percent or more. It also puts immense strain on engine internals, requiring replacing things like pistons and connecting rods with forged components. Clutches and transmissions are also often heavily fortified. Similar considerations are required for the addition of nitrous oxide injection, which can add 50, 75, 100 or even 150 horsepower depending on your intestinal fortitude. One mustn't undertake these kind of modifications without understanding the ramifications. What you will have is a street-legal race car, not a daily driver to shuttle the kids back and forth. On the other hand, this car's four doors and ample passenger space lead some owners to evilly cross these two opposite worlds.
Lest I forget another important realm of modification, let me mention handling upgrades. As nicely as the Taurus SHO rides, one may feel led to take advantage of the many options available for modification. Tokico, Koni and some others make a more firm strut, and there are stiffer springs available from Eibach and The SHO Shop. The strut tower brace (STB) is as self-explanatory as it sounds. It is a solid brace that attaches to the tops of the front or rear strut towers to reduce body roll. Subframe connectors (SFC's) are pieces of metal welded between the subframe and the unibody underneath the car to stiffen it up. The brakes can be improved as well. A low-budget option is to use the calipers and rotors for the much larger Lincoln Continental. Otherwise, there are aftermarket kits available as well that will have you stopping like a fighter jet on an aircraft carrier. When you replace the tires, spend a little extra for a high-performance V- or Z-rated tire with a high traction rating and a width of 225mm. You will thank yourself later, especially if you throw in some wider and/or taller wheels and shorten the sidewall.
Oh, and one last thing to add. The most radical modification of all is to replace the entire car. That's right, just rip the car right off that beautiful engine and put another one around it. Ford did this with an experimental Ranger pickup truck and also with a small number of Ford Festivas, retermed Shoguns. Jay Leno has one of the latter. They are extremely rare. Other transplants include antique hot rods and open-wheeled race cars. If memory serves correctly, there was also a radical concept car that featured two SHO engines welded together to create a V-12. Imagine that.
Conclusion
If you have made it this far, I applaud you. Either you own one of these amazing cars, are looking at purchasing one, or are just a glutton for punishment. There is a wealth of information available on the Web, I urge you to go and find it. There are also a lot of great people to meet who share this one thing in common.
For my knowledge of this car I owe thanks to the SHOTimes fan club, and also to my 1992 Taurus SHO that I so regretfully sold 2 years ago. My love affair with that car almost cost me my marriage. Buyer beware!
"The Taurus SHO can often become a money pit if not properly maintained. Unfortunately for you, if you have recently bought one you probably got it used, and this is beyond your control."
This alone would keep me from owning one. The only thing I hate worse than Fords is having to work on Fords. Especially if it's costing me money.
Quote from: R-inge on October 06, 2008, 12:17:34 PM
"The Taurus SHO can often become a money pit if not properly maintained. Unfortunately for you, if you have recently bought one you probably got it used, and this is beyond your control."
This alone would keep me from owning one. The only thing I hate worse than Fords is having to work on Fords. Especially if it's costing me money.
Why do you hate Fords so much? :wub:
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 12:22:24 PM
Why do you hate Fords so much? :wub:
Have you ever seen how little space there is under the hood of a Yamaha or Duratec Ford?
Quote from: the Teuton on October 06, 2008, 12:23:13 PM
Have you ever seen how little space there is under the hood of a Yamaha or Duratec Ford?
Yeah, I saw it yesterday.
what about dis
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/856563063.html
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 12:22:24 PM
Why do you hate Fords so much? :wub:
Well, hate no but I really don't like them that much, and I do in fact hate repairing them.
Quote from: R-inge on October 06, 2008, 12:45:10 PM
Well, hate no but I really don't like them that much, and I do in fact hate repairing them.
So far, I do know that I hate changing the steering rack on a T-Bird.
My school is a Ford Asset school, so we have lots of Fords.
Quote from: GoCougs on October 05, 2008, 11:25:36 PM
Think it's had regular fluid changes and necessary repairs? It's sounds like a neglected POS owned by a very unknowledgeable car person.
IMO it'd cost too much if it were free.
It will cost you thousands to fix and many hours to keep on the road for any length of time. If that's what you want, go for it, but it doesn't sound like it.
If remain compelled beyond all rational reason, don't dare offer more than $250.
Hmmm... according to this official flowchart, I believe you are wrong, but I could be misreading it...
(http://i34.tinypic.com/2vvu9md.jpg)
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 02:24:50 PM
Hmmm... according to this official flowchart, I believe you are wrong, but I could be misreading it...
(http://i34.tinypic.com/2vvu9md.jpg)
lol!
Quote from: R-inge on October 06, 2008, 12:45:10 PM
Well, hate no but I really don't like them that much, and I do in fact hate repairing them.
How about replacing alternators under the right front wheel well, eh?
Quote from: the Teuton on October 06, 2008, 03:04:55 PM
How about replacing alternators under the right front wheel well, eh?
Alternators located anywhere but on top of the motor should be banned, and the designers executed without reprieve.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 06, 2008, 03:04:55 PM
How about replacing alternators under the right front wheel well, eh?
Dumb question: How can you located an alternator under the front wheel well when it is engine driven? Really long belt?
Quote from: Danish on October 06, 2008, 04:39:17 PM
Dumb question: How can you located an alternator under the front wheel well when it is engine driven? Really long belt?
I think he means low to the ground and behind the wheel skirt.
Quote from: Danish on October 06, 2008, 04:39:17 PM
Dumb question: How can you located an alternator under the front wheel well when it is engine driven? Really long belt?
Maybe the alternator is electrically driven... it powers itself!!!!! :confused: :mrcool:
Quote from: Danish on October 06, 2008, 04:39:17 PM
Dumb question: How can you located an alternator under the front wheel well when it is engine driven? Really long belt?
On a transverse engine, the alternator is going to be tucked in either the right or left side of the engine bay. On cars with smaller engine bays, it will often be down near the middle or bottom of the engine block.
My brother's Regal (GM 3800) has the alternator right on top (even though it's transverse). On my Proteg?, the alternator is buried down deep, I'd have to access it from underneath the car. I'm not looking forward to the day when it shits the bed.
Thanks Roy and Adam.
It just seems weird cause on all my family's cars (transversely mounted engines), the alternator has always been right up top where its easy to access.
Quote from: R-inge on October 06, 2008, 04:44:37 PM
I think he means low to the ground and behind the wheel skirt.
Indeed.
Fortunately, we'll never have to deal with it on our own cars.
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 12:36:39 PM
what about dis
http://maine.craigslist.org/cto/856563063.html
Should be much gooder on your wallet.
Not as fast though. :evildude:
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on October 06, 2008, 06:23:53 PM
Should be much gooder on your wallet.
Not as fast though. :evildude:
I'm thinking the pros of the SHO continue to outweigh the cons. I drove it for 15 minutes and I love it. It's like when I first drove an SRT-4, I knew I wanted it right away, so I bought it. The SHO has such a similar feeling, actually - a wicked motor in an unrefined and mundane chassis - it's a muscle car.
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 06:33:42 PM
It's like when I first drove an SRT-4, I knew I wanted it right away, so I bought it.
OK, I know the Esteem, the Chevy-whatever truck, the motorcycle, whatever you had before the Jetta if that wasn't the Esteem, but wtf?
Quote from: Secret Chimp on October 06, 2008, 06:42:25 PM
OK, I know the Esteem, the Chevy-whatever truck, the motorcycle, whatever you had before the Jetta if that wasn't the Esteem, but wtf?
What do you mean? I used to have a 2004 SRT-4, the second year, when it came with limited slip and 230hp. This is back when I had a job and made money.
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 06:59:19 PM
What do you mean? I used to have a 2004 SRT-4, the second year, when it came with limited slip and 230hp. This is back when I had a job and made money.
Well good job on that then.
Quote from: Secret Chimp on October 06, 2008, 07:05:11 PM
Well good job on that then.
Jackass, go ahead an taunt me for not keeping it.
Haha!
And the V8Q!
Haha!
:lol:
Quote from: NACar on October 06, 2008, 06:33:42 PM
I'm thinking the pros of the SHO continue to outweigh the cons. I drove it for 15 minutes and I love it. It's like when I first drove an SRT-4, I knew I wanted it right away, so I bought it. The SHO has such a similar feeling, actually - a wicked motor in an unrefined and mundane chassis - it's a muscle car.
Hmm- well, good luck then!
Just remember to baby it in 1st gear (burnouts will destroy the tranny unless you spend $$ on a quaife Limited Slip Diff)
AND
You will NEVER be able to replicate the true joys of owning a SHO in the western Hemisphere:
(http://www.geocities.com/autobahnsho/shoad05.gif)
In case the picture doesn't show up: http://www.geocities.com/autobahnsho/ad.html
To complicate the SHO, and any other car buying decision, I keep getting conflicting information whether or not the Jetta will be road legal without having the collision damage repaired. One of my instructors, who literally co-wrote the state inspection manual, says "aww f*ck it, just drive it". However, the clerk at the BMV says my car is basically illegal to drive until I re-title it and show receipts to show all collision damage was repaired, regardless of whether or not it is necessary to pass a saftey inspection; but she also seemed to suggest those receipts could just be pencil whipped by a mechanic. To top it off, the insurance company was apparently supposed to surrender the title to me after I bought my car back from them, but I never got it. I hate this crap.
:banghead:
"The Taurus SHO might just be the perfect enthusiast beater"
http://www.beaterreview.com/?p=56
I agree.
Quote from: NACar on October 07, 2008, 06:09:48 PM
"The Taurus SHO might just be the perfect enthusiast beater"
http://www.beaterreview.com/?p=56
I agree.
Half the review talks about the poor cable shifter (until 1993) but they started replacing it with a Rod shifter in 1991.
The cars are cheap but parts are actually hard to find in general because SHO fanatics are... Fanatics.
Seriously I wish i had one right now but I can't afford it. They're too much time/money.
Someday I hope to have enough money to go to a Jackson Barrett auction and find that perfect Electric Red 1991 "Plus".
On a related note...
Damnit I wish I needed a new car (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Cars-Trucks___1993-Ford-Taurus-SHO-Midnight-Blue-5-Speed-Only-73K-Mi_W0QQitemZ360095287905QQddnZCarsQ20Q26Q20TrucksQQddiZ2282QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item360095287905&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C65%3A7%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245)
Quote from: TBR on October 10, 2008, 02:28:51 PM
On a related note...
Damnit I wish I needed a new car (http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Cars-Trucks___1993-Ford-Taurus-SHO-Midnight-Blue-5-Speed-Only-73K-Mi_W0QQitemZ360095287905QQddnZCarsQ20Q26Q20TrucksQQddiZ2282QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item360095287905&_trkparms=39%3A1%7C65%3A7%7C240%3A1318&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245)
OUCH
That's a clean car!
The usual signs that the odometer had been rolled back
aren't there- broken buttons on the a/c controller, ripped/torn seats, and/or wear on the gearshift/ steering wheel, etc...
Too bad I don't have money.... :hammerhead:
You don't need another money pit Will... save up your beans and buy a new car with a warranty. :lol:
Pfft- someday.
My credit is very holey- so I probably couldn't get a loan IF I wanted one.
The most I've ever spent on a car was $4500 for the current family van- at the time it had 108k miles and was bought 6yrs old. Figuring in initial purchase price, repair work, a UHaul rental (my older van broke in the middle of moving), etc... and doing my own labor, I average about $150-170/month per car. (((( Can't really beat that!! ))))
I buy w/ income tax refunds, and big (or "can wait") repairs are also done in the spring... :-)
SHO was sold. :( At least I don't have to think about it anymore.
Quote from: NACar on October 12, 2008, 08:02:25 PM
SHO was sold. :( At least I don't have to think about it anymore.
hehehe Congratulations?!
At least you've driven one now. Imagine getting stuck in traffic on the 'Bahn and downshifting to 3rd, punching it, until you get back up to speed...
Sigh- I miss mine.
It is always a great relief when a car you really want but really can't afford gets sold.
Quote from: AutobahnSHO on October 12, 2008, 08:06:09 PM
hehehe Congratulations?!
At least you've driven one now. Imagine getting stuck in traffic on the 'Bahn and downshifting to 3rd, punching it, until you get back up to speed...
Sigh- I miss mine.
Sigh - I miss it, too.
I desperately need something equally fast and ridiculous. Maybe I really should put a turbo on the Jetta.
Have you ever thought about winning the lottery?
Not the Powerball or anything like that. Just a small, couple hundred thousand dollar daily?
Quote from: Raza link=topic=16036.msg899086#msg899086 date=1223864032
Have you ever thought about winning the lottery?
Not the Powerball or anything like that. Just a small, couple hundred thousand dollar daily?
no
Quote from: NACar on October 12, 2008, 08:15:31 PM
no
You should try it some time. You might be able to buy a car with some of your winnings.
Quote from: Raza link=topic=16036.msg899092#msg899092 date=1223864192
You should try it some time. You might be able to buy a car with some of your winnings.
or i could rob a train
Quote from: NACar on October 12, 2008, 08:17:38 PM
or i could rob a train
I suggest stealing airconditioner cores from churches. Right now, not only are prices up on copper scrap, but they won't likely be turning on the air for months. if you put the cover back on when you're done nobody will notice the core is gone.
Hit three or four medium sized churches and you'll have your money.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 12, 2008, 08:19:46 PM
I suggest stealing airconditioner cores from churches. Right now, not only are prices up on copper scrap, but they won't likely be turning on the air for months. if you put the cover back on when you're done nobody will notice the core is gone.
Hit three or four medium sized churches and you'll have your money.
I hate going to church. I'd rather rob a train. Trains are fun.
Quote from: NACar on October 12, 2008, 08:20:55 PM
I hate going to church. I'd rather rob a train. Trains are fun.
You go in the middle of the week when nobody else is there. That's the other good thing about churches: predictable scheduling.
Quote from: Raza on October 12, 2008, 08:20:07 PM
Do you have a bandanna?
No, but I have a guy... I can get one.
Quote from: Soup DeVille on October 12, 2008, 08:21:33 PM
You go in the middle of the week when nobody else is there. That's the other good thing about churches: predictable scheduling.
I'm not too sure about that. The churches around here are more like mosques. I don't know WTF goes on in those things.
Somebody broke into my church a few weeks ago. Sucks for them, cuz there's nothing to steal in it. :lol:
Quote from: NACar on October 12, 2008, 08:24:35 PM
I'm not too sure about that. The churches around here are more like mosques. I don't know WTF goes on in those things.
Mosques have their big meeting on fridays.
Watch for a week. The schedule will be the same every week. Except during ramadan.
Quote from: the Teuton on October 05, 2008, 05:37:25 PM
I think you should get something small, fuel-efficient, reliable, cheap, and easy to find parts for. Therefore, while both the Saab and the SHO rock, do yourself a favor and buy something with a non-interference engine, a manual transmission, and good gas mileage. A Civic, Impreza, Corolla, newer Escort, or Saturn come to mind.
You don't have a full-time job and you need reliable transportation. Think with your brain this time -- not your heart.
You could have some real fun and get an Accord
Quote from: sportyaccordy on October 14, 2008, 02:06:13 PM
You could have some real fun and get an Accord
It might get in the way of you going for the world record of number of Accords owned by one person.
Quote from: Raza on October 14, 2008, 02:28:05 PM
It might get in the way of you going for the world record of number of Accords owned by one person.
Shall we change his name to Accordsforall?
Hmmm...
Quote from: the Teuton on October 14, 2008, 03:00:20 PM
Shall we change his name to Accordsforall?
Hmmm...
"Accordsforsportyaccordy"