• Mustang Forums
  • 1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk-
  • SVT Tech Forum

96 cobra fix?

  • Thread starter Thread starter 95GT5.0
  • Start date Start date Jun 23, 2004
9

95GT5.0

New Member
Jun 10, 2004
17
0
0
Jun 23, 2004
#1
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #1
I've been looking for a 96-98 cobra and i've found a couple of 96's but how do i know if they've had the fix if i buy it from a used car dealer?
 

stang976

New Member
Apr 13, 2004
853
0
0
Westchester, NY
Jun 23, 2004
#2
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #2
im not sure what fix your refering to, but i would ask them for a receipt or maybe call the dealership and provide them the vin#?
 

stang976

New Member
Apr 13, 2004
853
0
0
Westchester, NY
Jun 23, 2004
#3
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #3
let me know if you want to put some boost in that year cobra. i a have all the vortech tubes all you need is the head unit
 
9

95GT5.0

New Member
Jun 10, 2004
17
0
0
Jun 23, 2004
#4
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #4
THE OVERHEATING FIX
 
O

O.D. Showtime

Founding Member
Mar 31, 2002
820
0
16
.
Jun 23, 2004
#5
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #5
I don't really think there is a proven way to tell if it was fixed. I don't think Ford documents this, at least if it was done by a dealership. I fixed mine, and it's pretty obvious b/c of the larger, alum. radiator that is clearly not stock looking. You'll just have to look and see for yourself.
 
9

95GT5.0

New Member
Jun 10, 2004
17
0
0
Jun 23, 2004
#6
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #6
ok thanks
 
R

RedGTvert

Founding Member
Nov 21, 1999
3,129
1
58
Wellington, FL
Jun 23, 2004
#7
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #7
If a Ford dealer did it, it would show on an OASIS report.
 
S

sirhisss

Founding Member
Dec 12, 2000
260
0
0
Quincy, WA
Jun 23, 2004
#8
  • Jun 23, 2004
  • #8
The Ford cooling "fix" didn't always work according to some threads I've read on various forums.

Best is to use aftermarket parts (Steeda, flodyne, etc) radiator and install yourself.
The Ford fix would set you back about 1200 in parts + labor. I have seen some butchered installs of this.

Just my .02
 
9

95GT5.0

New Member
Jun 10, 2004
17
0
0
Jun 24, 2004
#9
  • Jun 24, 2004
  • #9
so on the 96's best thing to do would be is put in a aftermarket aluminum radiator and thats it?????
 
S

sirhisss

Founding Member
Dec 12, 2000
260
0
0
Quincy, WA
Jun 24, 2004
#10
  • Jun 24, 2004
  • #10
As far as the cooling "problem" goes that is essentially what is needed.
The cooling issue is really the A/C condensor position in front of the radiator and that the cooling fins on it are so tightly spaced. The existing radiator is aluminum but the cooling capability is reduced by the A/C unit blocking a large portion of the airflow. By changing to a larger high efficiency radiator you can correct the "problem". The Ford fix changes the condensor also.

In addition or as an alternate (this is what I have done) is to add a manual or automatic fan switch in parallel with the computer signal to the high speed circuit. I prefer automatic. I use a Hayden fan controller set to come on at 160*. (The computer doesn't turn the fan on till around 210*). I have also changed my coolant mixture to a 70-30 mix with Red Line Water Wetter added. This has allowed me to run open track events on 90+ degree days without heating problems. The nice thing about using a fan control unit is when tied directly to the battery, it cools the motor down after track session and then shuts off. With a manual you would have to remember to shut it off so your battery isn't drained.

BTW the Ford fix (which is a TSB not a recall) is 1200 +.
a Steeda or other radiator is 400 + some change.
the Fan controll unit is 50 bucks and some time. Water Wetter and a refill of the antifreeze mixed at 70-30. total around 65 bucks.

Your choice.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

J
'96 Cobra: A/C gets weak and engine misfires under load when warm
  • jruhnke
  • Oct 22, 2025
  • SVT Tech Forum
Replies
2
Views
323
SVT Tech Forum Nov 20, 2025
nickyb
New gal in San Diego
  • Mustang Momma
  • Feb 11, 2026
  • The Welcome Wagon
Replies
3
Views
196
The Welcome Wagon Feb 11, 2026
Mcmahst
D
Drivetrain Using a 98 Cobra T45 in a 03 GT Auto
  • dylan9075
  • Jun 2, 2026
  • SN95 4.6L Mustang Tech
Replies
0
Views
76
SN95 4.6L Mustang Tech Jun 2, 2026
dylan9075
D
Q
Resolved 96 crown Vic ECU in a mustang gt
  • QuickDibbles
  • Aug 30, 2025
  • SN95 4.6L Mustang Tech
Replies
5
Views
746
SN95 4.6L Mustang Tech Sep 27, 2025
Noobz347
M
Misfire
  • Mike3
  • May 30, 2026
  • 1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk-
Replies
1
Views
94
1979 - 1995 (Fox, SN95.0, & 2.3L) -General/Talk- May 30, 2026
Mike3
M
Share:
Bluesky Email Share Link
  • Mustang Forums
  • 1996 - 2004 SN95 Mustang -General/Talk-
  • SVT Tech Forum
Menu
Log in

Register

  • Forums
  • What's new
  • Media
  • Resources
  • Contact
  • Sponsor
X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?

X

Privacy & Transparency

We use cookies and similar technologies for the following purposes:

  • Personalized ads and content
  • Content measurement and audience insights

Do you accept cookies and these technologies?