High mileage '02 GT....
 

Hi folks,

I have an '02 GT 5 speed with 126,000 plus miles on it. What things do I need to keep a watch on, or save up for, that aren't normally replaced (i.e. bearings, tie rod ends, etc.)? Thanks for your help.

Depends on how well the car has been maintained. I had an 02 vert with more than 150,000 with no problems. It was serviced every three thousand miles.

Good axles, front wheel hubs, good shifter,struts and shocks

Since I've first posted this thread, I've had to replace the rear axle bearings, rotors all around, add more refrigerant to the A/C, learned to NOT use 75W-90 in the rear (must use 75W-140), and replaced original radiator hoses and thermostat (pre-emptive, not required). Has anybody ever done an engine flush? If so, what differences did you see? I've moved to the high mileage oil as well. Engine/car has 154,500 miles on it now.

Oh, starting today it threw O2 sensor trouble codes, for both sides at the same time! I find it hard to believe both upstream sensors are going bad at exactly the same time.

As long as you've kept good clean oil in it, and it doesn't get oil dirty right away, I wouldn't mess with a "flush." I've heard those flush chemicals can cause more harm than good to gaskets and seals... just keep good oil in it at regular change intervals. 200k+ miles isn't a problem if it's maintained.

And O2 sensors can indeed go out at same time. If they're original, change them.

Agree with Coupe. Keep in mind that routine oil changes actually flush the system for you.

I am curious though, what happened when you used 75w90 oil in your rear end?

I'm guessing the trac loc didn't like it lol

In Jan 2013 I replaced the axle bearings, and put in Royal Purple 75W-90 in the diff. A few months later I started hearing and feeling grinding in the rear while turning. Got so loud at times folks in parking lots were looking at me wondering what the hell was going on. I also caught a burning oil type smell from the rear after long trips. A little research showed I had put in the wrong oil viscosity, so changed out to 140 and added some 4 oz additional friction modifier in June 2013. No problems since.

I am the original owner, and have changed the oil religiously every 3K-6K miles. Used mostly either full or blended synthetic. I reckon no flush is needed.

Turns out the trouble codes I had were caused by my CAI drooping apart downline of the MAF. A quick reconnect and tightening of the clamp fixed that.

I'm also noticing general clunkiness in the front end over bumps. I'm thinking bushing are going bad since the original struts were replaced at about 91K miles. Still have the original ball joints.

I was just curious because the earlier model 8.8's took 75w90. Only difference between the earlier years and your body style is the carbon fiber clutches.

Glad you posted it though. Definitly something to look out for is people don't know any better or experience similar problems

Resurrecting this old thread since I still own the car.

I'm looking to replace the front struts. What with all the holes drilled in the tower (see pics), will I need to get anything special to get it properly aligned? Keeping the stock stance and suspension.

Also, the inner tie rods need replacing. Any advice there? I think a special tool is needed to take them off the rack. Maybe an AutoZone rental.