where can i get a step by step on changing head gaskets on a 1997 Ford Thunderbird?
Your best bet would be to buy a manual for that specific model. Chilton is alright for this. Should be about $20. It is involved enough that you need something you can refer to instead of just having it told to you here.
You should have so experience working on motors before taking on this much of a job. It's not impossible, do it step by step, mark all the hoses and where they connect with masking tape Put an A or 1 on each side then B or 2 and so on.
Any parts store should carry the Chilton repair manuals.
On a 1997 Ford Thunderbird : The odometer is in the middle of the speedometer
Is your starter and alternater OK?
In a 1997 Ford Thunderbird the 3.8 liter V6 engine has a timing CHAIN
On a 1997 Ford Thunderbird ( V6 and V8 ) 68.1 liters ( 18.0 U.S. gallons )
Around 3 to 4 hours
Your owners manual will explain how to reset that function.
The 1997 Thunderbird 4.6L engine has only 1 catalytic converter.
According to the 1997 Ford Thunderbird Owner Guide : For the 3.8 liter V6 and the 4.6 liter V8 engines : With engine oil filter change : ( 4.7 litres / 5.0 U.S. quarts of 5W-30 engine oil )
The 1997 Ford Thunderbird 4.6L engine was reported to have 205 HP.
It is in the fuel tank.
According to the 1997 Ford Thunderbird Owner Guide : ( 18.0 U.S. gallons / 68.1 litres )
On a 1997 Ford Thunderbird : The fuel tank is under the vehicle , ahead of the rear wheels