As I just hit the 50,000-mile mark, I thought it would be nice to reflect on what I have done so far, and how much it cost (approximate amounts to the best of my recollection).
This car has been wonderful to own, makes me feel great driving it, and just feels like it's made for me. Knock on wood, it'll continue to do so. Or make for a decent sale as I am considering returning to my home country of Germany.
New TRW upper and lower control arms: $1,200 (parts and labor; don't judge...I know I overpaid, oh well; all others are parts only, plus my own labor)
New fuel filter: $12
Two oil changes: 2x $40
Transmission fluid flush with Valvoline Mercon V: $75
New air filter: $12
New plugs, wires, and Motorcraft coil pack: $180
New belt: $25
New Continental Reliant tires: $400
Passenger side mirror: $20
Front valence panel: $15
Door striker bushings: $0
Passenger side door weather seal: $10
Auto-dimming inside rearview mirror: $16
Faux suede trim, incl. adhesive: $70
Genuine walnut wood pieces: $40
Leather-wrapped door release handles and shift knob: $15
Leatherette-wrapped armrest: $15
Leather headrests with custom stitching front and rear, tilting in front: $60
DRL with Zevo LEDs and relay: $35
Zevo LED taillights and LED-friendly flasher: $35
Cornering lights: $25
Door panel and center console ambient lighting: $10
Door courtesy lights plus interior LED bulbs: $40
Center console cubby (repositioned 12V outlet): $10
Center console armrest support (using pre-97 cupholder plus custom support): $10
Silencer removal with custom mesh rodent guard: $0
Could you import it to Germany ? You would probably be one of the very few on the road. Rumor I have heard is the suspension on these cars was modeled after the 6 series BMW.
**Edit meant to put 6 series
Your Tbird looks great! The green paint with the tan interior is a nice combination. It's such an uncommon, well mostly unseen color combination these days. Looks very clean as well!
I also would recommend to just leave the trunk torsion springs alone. I completely removed them, needless to say it was an undertaking to get them back in.
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