PROBLEMS WITH 96-98COBRAS

[TOS 93GT]

I am looking to buy a 96-98 cobra And was wondering what to look out for as problems .

Also wondering if they acme with front strut braces about half I looked at had them

Thanks
Tom

 

[tygr1]

Mine is a daily driver/toy. It gets driven both easy and VERY hard. About 60/40. It runs like new and leaks NOTHING and still winds to 7K rpm without complaint.

It has 112,000+ miles on the motor/trans!

No factory Strut tower braces on the 98.

 

[neko]

like said above, 96 and 97 had strut tower braces. now as for problems. most of the 96 have had the cooling recall performed, but if u get a 96, double check to make sure. now also check to see if E-brake recall was done. thats about it for the recalls. now other problems. sometimes the IMRCs have troubles. (intake manifold runner controls). good news is while u are there, u get to clean ur secondary valves and that makes a world of differnce. besides that. its just probles that come with time and miles. so good luck with the buy!

 

[wythors]

Check the rear sway bar where it bolts to the LCA. They break at the bolt hole.

 

[TOS 93GT]

I have herd of the cooling recall . What do i look for to make sure it was done (ie hoses,or side ) what will be the problem if it fails dosent it burn valves

 

[BlkThndr66]

I have a 96 snake. Definately make sure that the cooling recall has been done. Check the rear end as well. Mine was leaking diff fluid, and spraying it onto the axles and caused some of the seals to break down. I have talked with other people in my area with 96 snakes, and they have all had this work done before. Another thing with the 96's as said before is the rear sway bar. It broke off on the passenger side right at the bolt hole. This happens from powersliding and the bar not being able to do its job. I would check to make sure there is no wear there. Also, make sure the radio/cd player works. Ive only got 67K miles on mine and the damn thing went out on me. Good ole Ford! Good luck, and these things are a lot of fun if you can find a cherry one!

 

[neko]

rear sway bar

well i did forget about the rear sway bar. but i will say this. its not only a problem on the 96s. my 97 broke in the same spot as all the others. so i guess thats just a ford problem with design. but u can get them pretty cheap or up-grade.