I have an '88 which is pretty much the same thing. It's decently reliable if you don't run it hard like I do to mine. Oil leaks are my biggest problem.
Good car.
Yes but buy a v8 not a v6.....
Depends on which Ford model you are referring to. The Ford Fusion has been very reliable and is rated by many as the most reliable family sedan. The Flex, and Lincoln MKT are also very reliable. The Ford F150 is a reliable full sized truck that is a number 1 seller. Ford leads domestic manufactures in reliability so the chances are you will get a good car or truck.
10w40 any brand you prefer. Rotella T is very good.
Since Ford didn't make a 1998 Thunderbird it is very difficult to figure out what year Thunderbird you are talking about. Recheck your vehicle for proper year of manufacture and maybe some one can assist you when the actual year is known. Good luck.
Shop manual is best, check local library for schematics as they are a good source!
I've had a lot of luck with Ford Tauruses and Explorers.
Have you checked the fuse panel under the dashboard for the instrumentation fuse being good or bad?
You need bushings in the bottom door hinge. You might have to remove the finder to get to it. You might trying to go to a you pull it and find a good hinge from a 89 to 97 Thunderbird or Cougar. It would be less work.
not a good idea
about 10 hours alldata says. but if your good it can take about 6
Check for bad fusable linkUsually located in the smaller wire running to the starter solenoid