New wires/plugs....general tuneup questions

Tim Reynolds · Jul 19, 2005

My "01" ST has only got 42k miles on it but figured it was time for some attention. I'm not really into performance other than getting better mileage. I've read a bunch of posts and have gotten some great information but any thoughts would be appreciated.

What I've done so far is: K&N drop in filter (had Fram), removed airbox silencer, switched to Motorcraft oil filter and Mobile One oil (was using Fram and Pennzoil), flushed coolant and replaced with Prestone.

What I'm planning on doing: Taylor wires and Motorcraft plugs, new trani fluid and filter. I'm even toying with the idea of getting a Gibson exhaust system for the "audio estetics" and any mileage increase it may gain.

Anything I'm missing here guys?

Thanks

Tim

Bill Ellis · Jul 19, 2005

The best mod for gaining mileage is how you drive. Keep it under 2500 rpm all the time and try to keep it below 2000 while driving in traffic. Coast to stops when you can, look far ahead and adjust for the traffic. A lot of fast starts and quick stops don't get you anywhere faster, just uses a lot more gas.

Tim Reynolds · Jul 19, 2005

Thanks Bill, I'm actually a pretty conservative driver with all the things you mentioned. I'm just in the tinkering mood and looking to squeeze every bit of mileage out the ST that I can as well as performing some solid maintenance. The ST is a keeper as we all know.

Dreman · Jul 19, 2005

Keep an eye on your tire pressure.

Tim Reynolds · Jul 19, 2005

More good advice David, BTW I also just had Bridgestone Dueller AT's put on and I installed Monroe Sensa Tracs. Great ride over the stock setup and I might even get the EE sway bar. Like I said I'm in the tinkering mood.

Tim Reynolds · Jul 19, 2005

Mentally I'm already up 2 MPG.....

Seriously I know that the mileage thing is the holy grail for us but what I'm really looking at now is good maintenance. I don't trust the Ford schedule, for instance the 100k spark plug change, especially when plenty of you all said they weren't gapped right or that you had two or three different types in there.