View Full Version : Cobra has 17 years and 41k miles - what to replace?
Bill_VA
12-10-2021, 12:09 PM
So, it's been a very long time ago that I built my Mk3 (17 years) and many enjoyable miles. I've kept up with my normal maintenance. Replaced brake fluid every 4-5 years. Antifreeze is new. Fuel filters are clean and never get anything in them (indicating the tank is probably pretty clean). Ball joints are fairly new (converted LCAs to rod ends about 5-6 years ago and replaced all front suspension parts). Rear LCAs are billet aluminum and all rear pieces have rod ends.
Shocks are original Koni red shocks, but the ride is still firm and responsive. How long should they be good for?
What should I be looking at or checking?
Rdone585
12-10-2021, 01:14 PM
First, here's to a great 17 year span for you and your car. Mine is pushing the 19 year mark. If you haven't already done it already, LEDs are a good maintenance upgrade. Brake and turn signals with a new LED compatible flasher are an easy choice. There are also paths for easy to more challenging upgrades for headlights. In my opinion they are all worth it. If the tranny fluid new when you built the car then your probably still OK. Maybe check the level. Maybe a new set of tires since after 41K, your probably running slicks by now :-), just kidding, I'm sure they are fine.
GoDadGo
12-10-2021, 01:39 PM
Change The Oil, The Air Filter & Maybe Air In The Tires Just For Fun & Drive On!
Jeff Kleiner
12-10-2021, 01:48 PM
If the tires are over 5 years old replace them. Otherwise drive on!
Jeff
Bill_VA
12-10-2021, 04:11 PM
Tires are new. Never drive on tires over 5 years old, not in cars like this where traction is a life or death situation. Already switched to LEDs years ago. I am seriously considering ditching the carb and going FI (Holley Terminator).
GoDadGo
12-10-2021, 04:31 PM
If the tires are over 5 years old replace them. Otherwise drive on!
Jeff
Darn, New Tires I Need!
0Thanks Sir Jeffski!
Bob Cowan
12-11-2021, 12:22 PM
Over the years I have found that shocks generally don't last more than 40-50K miles. They slowly wear out, and you don't really notice it until you replace them. Then you say, "Holy Crap! This is so much better!" :)
Unless you're racing, treat it like you do your DD. Keep up on your maint, visual inspections, etc.