Here's a wide open topic for discussion. I really like the all-stock aspect of my new (to me) 2003 GT Vert, but I would like to enhance it in the areas of performance (hp), efficiency (gas mileage) and appearance. Cost is a concern (got to convince the wife that it's a worthwhile expense) and to say I know next to nothing about mechanical stuff isn't far from the truth (though I do have a mechanic who would like to work on the car for me). Also, with only 9000 miles on it, I'm a long way away from needing to change anything but the oil; but I can't help think there are things I can upgrade to improve how it runs. What do you say?
First - Oil & Filter: What's the best for an everyday driver (with the occasional need to show off what it can do)?
So far, I've heard Mobil 1 Synthetic or Motorcraft Synthetic Blend is best, or maybe Royal Purple. And a Motorcraft filter.
Next - Fuel Filter: Would anything more than what would come with a routine service be recommended?
Air Filter: I've already removed the air silencer. I assume the next step would be something like a K&N filter. It looks like a Ram Air Intake or a Cold Air Intake would be next. JLT's CAI gets good recommendations. Then I'd really like to add a Ram Air Shaker Hood Scoop someday (yeah, I know, that's far from stock for a GT).
General engine: Would replacing plugs, plug wires, fuel delivery or anything else improve performance and/or fuel mileage enough to make them worth considering? (This might even be a good place to start dressing it up a bit. I think anodized blue engine parts would accent the Sonic Blue body rather well.)
More blue: Moving to the appearance category, I'd really like to replace the headlight and fog light lamps with something bright blue/white. Any comments? Then I think one of those Reverse Glow Gauge Face Plates would look really cool at night.
Finally, Tires: My idea of good looking rubber is something fatter and taller than what's on there now (245/45ZR17's) - at least in the back. I understand those wheel wells will hold up to a 19" tire, so why not let them? I don't want to lose my Bullitt rims though. As for driving conditions: no snow, heavy rain sometimes and everything from interstates to narrow, shoulderless country roads. So a smooth ride is good, but excellent control is paramount. I would think the larger the footprint you can put down, the better. But, how big a tire can I put on those rims? Would better suspension help as well?
Let's hear from the collective expertise of the forum.
First - Oil & Filter: What's the best for an everyday driver (with the occasional need to show off what it can do)?
So far, I've heard Mobil 1 Synthetic or Motorcraft Synthetic Blend is best, or maybe Royal Purple. And a Motorcraft filter.
Next - Fuel Filter: Would anything more than what would come with a routine service be recommended?
Air Filter: I've already removed the air silencer. I assume the next step would be something like a K&N filter. It looks like a Ram Air Intake or a Cold Air Intake would be next. JLT's CAI gets good recommendations. Then I'd really like to add a Ram Air Shaker Hood Scoop someday (yeah, I know, that's far from stock for a GT).
General engine: Would replacing plugs, plug wires, fuel delivery or anything else improve performance and/or fuel mileage enough to make them worth considering? (This might even be a good place to start dressing it up a bit. I think anodized blue engine parts would accent the Sonic Blue body rather well.)
More blue: Moving to the appearance category, I'd really like to replace the headlight and fog light lamps with something bright blue/white. Any comments? Then I think one of those Reverse Glow Gauge Face Plates would look really cool at night.
Finally, Tires: My idea of good looking rubber is something fatter and taller than what's on there now (245/45ZR17's) - at least in the back. I understand those wheel wells will hold up to a 19" tire, so why not let them? I don't want to lose my Bullitt rims though. As for driving conditions: no snow, heavy rain sometimes and everything from interstates to narrow, shoulderless country roads. So a smooth ride is good, but excellent control is paramount. I would think the larger the footprint you can put down, the better. But, how big a tire can I put on those rims? Would better suspension help as well?
Let's hear from the collective expertise of the forum.