5th Nov 2007, 23:19
Clutches are wear parts and are not supposed to last forever. I am guessing it was slipping, but you kept driving it anyway, clutches don't normally just "fail" instantly.
The shift cable did not break. I know that because the shift cable NEVER breaks. What breaks is the clip on the ends of the cable. This is an easy fix and should not cost more than $20 and less than an hour for the total non-mechanic. This is a common problem, but at least it is easily fixed.
The transmissions in the SHO come from Mazda and are more than capable of handling the SHO engine. I have had two SHOs with manuals, one had over 200,000 miles when I sold it and the tranny still shifted like new. Check the SHO forums, very few people have trouble with the manual tranny.
15th May 2008, 23:51
I think you need to look into things a little deeper. The SHO is a wonderful car and are ground pounders. The repairs are much cheaper if you know what you are doing or know someone. Personally I think you got bent over. Just because you had problems with your car, normally it is because you've been out pouring the fuel to it and not maintaining it correctly. So the recommendation that I speak is, look at what you're doing a little closer find out info. Then make the decision. (Very Simple)
13th Aug 2004, 11:26
Actually, SHOs do have a very extensive tune up every 60k miles. I think someone was charging a bit much for the parts, though, because I think it can be done for less than 1/2 of that. These engines are very "high strung" in that they are putting out the same HP as the Ford 5.0 H. O V8 out of a 3.0 V6! As they are solid lifter, they need the valve lash adjusted (using a large assortment of shims and special tools), plus they have a large, complex, tuned intake (called a "snake nest") that all has to come off, so while you're in there, it is recommended that you replace the water pump, crank position sensor, spark plugs, spark plug wires (originally very expensive, but now multi-sourced, so much cheaper), valve cover gaskets, etc...
One company, for $450 deposit, will rent you a kit with the shims and special tools. Return it within 30 days and pay $50 for the rental.
Oh, also, the engines are winders, and unless you are careful not to lug them, the rod bearings need to be periodically replaced (every 100k or so). They are easy to access, but it can be somewhat tedious to do all the measurements, etc...
I *love* my SHO, but at this point, it is definitely a car for a "hands on" kind of guy, or someone who has a lot of money for a good mechanic. Only one Ford dealer in a dozen or so has anyone who knows *anything* about these cars.
The leather is thin on all high end Ford products. You either need to use Lexol frequently, or order an aftermarket interior kit with better leather.