What to look for on a 1996 Cobra

make sure the cooling system recall was performed. also you will probably have to clean out the IMRC plates.

as for a first mod, i would suggest full length subframe connectors like the Maximum Motorsports ones. also a shifter will make it more fun to drive.

The TSB on the cooling systems were the only main issues. I just replaced my stock radiator and thermostat and won't need to worry about it. Obviously, you'll want to run a carfax. There were a couple recalls on my car, so check w/ your Ford dealer to make sure those were done. The only other issues I can think of w/ 96's are the weak T45 trannies. Run the car through a couple gears (make sure to redline) and see how the tranny reacts. Also, after I bought my car and put it on a lift, I looked underneathe rear wheel wells and noticed about 50 lbs. of melted rubber. It was all over the exhaust pipes too. Just kind of hints out that it may have been beat on, which pisses me off. Look for the not-so-obvious things. Also ask if synthetic oil was used in the motor. If not, throw some in on the next oil change and continue to use it. It's worth the money.

JayDPee said:

Thanks guys. I'm looking at buying the MGW short throw first, then moving on to some suspension upgrades. For the cooling system TSB, does the dealer just look up the VIN and perform the fix for free if not already done?

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they can look up the VIN and tell you if it was done or not. however, if it hasnt been done, they wont do ti for free. after a few years, the dealers dont honor the requests anymore. they shouldve been done a long time ago.