BuckeyeSVT

Upgrades? Honestly aside from a metal impeller water pump - There aren't many worthwhile upgrades for these engines.

Honestly that's up to you. Unfortunately most of the 3.0L's are high in mileage anymore so a used engine is probably out of the question when it comes to 3.0L's. Depending on your area, you may be able to find a lower mile SVT engine (I found a 63K used 2.5L SVT (VIN G) engine in MN for $850). So the choice is yours to make, you can also go re-manufactured - But beware the cost will be substantial for the engine but everything will be refreshed and have a warranty on it.

to FCO!

UPDATE: All done.

I will be working on the back end of the site and also updating the forum software to 4.4.1 from 4.3.6 we are on now. This will result in a little downtime here and there. I will try to work on this later tonight so the site is not down during peak visiting time. Thanks, -Dominic

I only see a cutoff on the production date of 3/29/99. Before 3/29/99 is one style, From 3/29/99- is another style. You can call any Ford dealer service dept. and give them the VIN and they will give you the exact build date if you don't have it for reference. Since you are a 4/99 build you are in the after club on the cutoff date. -Dominic

to FCO!

Stay away from the Gates kits, never had anything but issues especially with the included idlers and tensioners that come with the full kit.

When the car is off, yes. It's a theft deterrent. -Dominic

Wow, sounds like it's had some work done! Normally what happens is the speed sensor on the transmission shorts out (due to the wiring at the sensor end fraying and cracking) and the PATS system will lockout. This will cause a no-start condition. Basic symptom is flashing PATS light (Red light on the center dash plate that says "Contour" - That is unless you swapped it out for a clock). Speed sensors are cheap and removeal and installation are pretty simple. I would start by checking that first as it's quite common. -Dominic

Welcome to FCO! The speed sensor (VSS) on the transmission can short out causing this and other issues. There are some examples floating around if you search. -Dominic

to FCO! Don't be afraid to ask if you have a question. -Dom

By your description it sounds like false ABS activation from a failed sensor ring (mainly the rear hub sensor ring cracks and causes sporadic ABS issues). If you have a scan tool it's easy to see what's going on. If not, I would suggest removing the rear 2 rotors and looking at the tone ring (it looks like a toothed gear around the back of the wheel hub). I can help with pics if you have any questions. -Dominic

Sounds about right. I would just make double sure that the positive cables are well insulated to prevent any shorts and possible fire. -Dominic