27th May 2004, 22:53
A couple of things:
The valve guide seals were updated for the 1996 model year, I believe, to a silicon seal material. They are not terribly expensive to update, so if you ever get tired of adding oil, it is something to consider.
On the tranny, consider upgrading to Mercron IV, the newer synthetic fluid. Ford officially doesn't recommend it due to potential seal leakage in trannies built before the seal upgrade there as well, but most have no problems. Make sure they are also draining the torque converter as well.
They are durable, reliable vehicles. I always amazed at how long they have been around, but how few know how good they are.
29th May 2009, 02:54
We had one, and right after we got it, about 2 weeks I would say, and we hit a bear, we thought it ripped the whole front end off the car, all it did was crack the grille. Wow all I can say about the whole experience we had with that car is wow!!! Hang onto it my friend, take care of it and it will serve you well.
29th Feb 2004, 14:48
Allow me to make a suggestion... for not too much money, you can cure your oil-burning woes and save a little extra room in that trunk! Have your trusted mechanic replace the valve seals in the engine and the car will never use oil again. 1992-1995 Crown Vics were very well known for developing bad valve seals at or around 100,000 miles, so it's not uncommon. I am not for sure what they are charging to do the job, but I am fairly certain it would be less than $300 with labor and parts included.
Amazing story, 194,000 miles! My 1997 Crown Vic LX has 81,000 miles on it, but 20,000 of those have been put on in the last year or so due to driving for work. I am going to keep it another year and a half or so, then I should have enough money saved up to purchase a brand new one!