Do it yourself maintenance survey
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Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 67
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From: Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
Do it yourself maintenance survey
I'd like to get a feel for how many folks do their own preventative maintenance, and of those folks what type of maintenance they tackle.
I would assume that at the very least most do-it-yourselfers would change the oil and filter, but what about the harder stuff?
How many people:
- change air and fuel filters
- rotate tires
- inspect/repair brakes
- replace/inspect other fluids (tranny, diff)
I'm just trying to get a feel on how much the averate do-it-yourselfer takes on. I'm also interested in how it might affect the warranties.
In addition, any tips and tricks would be greatly appreciated.
I know this is a rather galactic request, but it would be a very informative thread that I'd be very interested in. Thanks.
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'99 XL 2x4 4.2L SC 5-Spd SC Black over Silver
Penda Liner, Chrome Tubular Step Bars, Prime Designs Bug Deflector
I would assume that at the very least most do-it-yourselfers would change the oil and filter, but what about the harder stuff?
How many people:
- change air and fuel filters
- rotate tires
- inspect/repair brakes
- replace/inspect other fluids (tranny, diff)
I'm just trying to get a feel on how much the averate do-it-yourselfer takes on. I'm also interested in how it might affect the warranties.
In addition, any tips and tricks would be greatly appreciated.
I know this is a rather galactic request, but it would be a very informative thread that I'd be very interested in. Thanks.
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'99 XL 2x4 4.2L SC 5-Spd SC Black over Silver
Penda Liner, Chrome Tubular Step Bars, Prime Designs Bug Deflector
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 295
Likes: 0
From: MS
I do everything you listed above and anything else I can. Just turned 20 yesterday and don't have alot of experience. My family averages 25K on each of 4 vehicles a year, and we keep them all until around 200K before we trade them in on another used ford with about 50K. My dad makes me and my younger brother do all of the service and maintenance on our vehicles, so I have experience changing altenators, starters and other small things, never been in a motor though, wish I had just to know. I enjoy working on them even though problems are few and far between.
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1997 4x4 5.4 ORP XLT extended cab Dark Toreador red Westin nerf bars tint HARDER THAN A ROCK AND FASTER THAN A HEART BEAT
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1997 4x4 5.4 ORP XLT extended cab Dark Toreador red Westin nerf bars tint HARDER THAN A ROCK AND FASTER THAN A HEART BEAT
Senior Member
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 1,929
Likes: 1
From: Oklahoma City
I haven't done any maintaince yet on my F150 but here what I have done on my last vehicles.
Oil changes can be had for $15.00
By time I buy the filter, oil and dispose of the old oil at the recycling place I have a hard time justifying doing it myself.
Air filters only take 5mins to change and there is greater saving to be had in this area so I do it myself.
Many shops charge $70.00 for a tuneup which in todays cars means changing the plugs.
No thanks I'll do that one myself.
Tire rotation is free a many tire stores so I let them do it.
Also if I want them balanced I have to go to the shop anyway.(balancing not free)
Any other minor stuff I do as much as I can myself.
Brakes I leave to the pros.
I have done them myself but taking the rotors in to be turned is a pain.
Oil changes can be had for $15.00
By time I buy the filter, oil and dispose of the old oil at the recycling place I have a hard time justifying doing it myself.
Air filters only take 5mins to change and there is greater saving to be had in this area so I do it myself.
Many shops charge $70.00 for a tuneup which in todays cars means changing the plugs.
No thanks I'll do that one myself.
Tire rotation is free a many tire stores so I let them do it.
Also if I want them balanced I have to go to the shop anyway.(balancing not free)
Any other minor stuff I do as much as I can myself.
Brakes I leave to the pros.
I have done them myself but taking the rotors in to be turned is a pain.
Senior Member
Joined: Aug 1999
Posts: 1,565
Likes: 1
From: Columbus, Georgia
I do everything and more that you listed to my 98 F-150 (and other vehicle):
- change air and fuel filters
- rotate tires
- inspect/repair brakes/ and replace rotors and drums when needed
- replace/inspect other fluids (tranny, diff)
- hand wash and wax..never a car wash
I basically do everything except major engine rebuilds or computer related repairs.
I don't let anyone even check the tire pressure on my vehicle(s) because there are too many crooked car repair places out there. For major repairs, tire replacement..etc.. sure I let a good shop do the work since I do not have the proper equipment. PROFIT is almost always more important than quality to a repair shop..not me.
Changing the oil on an F-150 is so simple..and inexpensive (under $10.00)..and you KNOW new oil (proper weight) and a filter were added to your vehicle. Some shops may only change one or the other and bill you for a complete job.
Besides, you get a chance to "bond" with the BEST truck on the road today!!!!
- change air and fuel filters
- rotate tires
- inspect/repair brakes/ and replace rotors and drums when needed
- replace/inspect other fluids (tranny, diff)
- hand wash and wax..never a car wash
I basically do everything except major engine rebuilds or computer related repairs.
I don't let anyone even check the tire pressure on my vehicle(s) because there are too many crooked car repair places out there. For major repairs, tire replacement..etc.. sure I let a good shop do the work since I do not have the proper equipment. PROFIT is almost always more important than quality to a repair shop..not me.
Changing the oil on an F-150 is so simple..and inexpensive (under $10.00)..and you KNOW new oil (proper weight) and a filter were added to your vehicle. Some shops may only change one or the other and bill you for a complete job.
Besides, you get a chance to "bond" with the BEST truck on the road today!!!!
Senior Member
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 1,590
Likes: 0
From: Arlington, Texas
I do it all myself, except for rotating the tires, Discount Tire does that for free.
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Arlington Texas (DFW), member of Fordified.
Mudder,Black 98 Styleside S/C F150 4x4 0RP 5.4 3.55ls, Magnum bug shield, Grizzly roll bar,2 Baja lights, 4 165 watt KC lights (I can light up the night with these), Manik grille guard, Westin step bars,Sonic aluminum treadplate 36" tool box, Flowmaster dual exhaust, K/N air filter, 265/75/16 BFG AT/S, American Racing Baja wheels, a Mobil Speed Pass on the back window, a F150 Online sticker, and a Stone Cold sticker on the front windshield. . More to come for the 3:16 machine: Ramsey Pro 8000 winch is here, and will be on as soon as the hidden kit gets here, 2 more KC lights, Rancho shocks, and tail light guards. If you would like to see pics, email me at mudder46@hotmail.com or see pics at me and pony's new website www.angelfire.com/ok3/ponysix8
[This message has been edited by mudder (edited 09-30-1999).]
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Arlington Texas (DFW), member of Fordified.
Mudder,Black 98 Styleside S/C F150 4x4 0RP 5.4 3.55ls, Magnum bug shield, Grizzly roll bar,2 Baja lights, 4 165 watt KC lights (I can light up the night with these), Manik grille guard, Westin step bars,Sonic aluminum treadplate 36" tool box, Flowmaster dual exhaust, K/N air filter, 265/75/16 BFG AT/S, American Racing Baja wheels, a Mobil Speed Pass on the back window, a F150 Online sticker, and a Stone Cold sticker on the front windshield. . More to come for the 3:16 machine: Ramsey Pro 8000 winch is here, and will be on as soon as the hidden kit gets here, 2 more KC lights, Rancho shocks, and tail light guards. If you would like to see pics, email me at mudder46@hotmail.com or see pics at me and pony's new website www.angelfire.com/ok3/ponysix8
[This message has been edited by mudder (edited 09-30-1999).]
Senior Member
Joined: Mar 1999
Posts: 1,246
Likes: 0
From: Wilmington, NC
My husband used to do all of that stuff on my truck. But since retiring from the USMC and getting a "real" job he just doesn't have the time. So I take it to have the oil changed. And any other reg maintaince work needed. I've added a K&N air filter so nothing to do there. The place I bought the tires, rotate for free. He did replace the spark plugs and if anything major comes up, he'll do it (he's a diesel mechanic) He checked my brakes the other day, they're fine. It's my truck, so I either do the work myself or make sure it gets done. And when I choose a place to work on my truck, I make sure they don't mind me looking over their shoulder to watch.
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97F150 XLT SC 4x4 Flairside 4.6 V8 5sp Dk Toreador Red, 3.55LS
ARE tonneau cover, p255/70rx16 tires (came w/235), Superchip
Pioneer CD w/4 Polk Speakers & Clarion APA5240amp, skid plates
bed liner, side window deflectors, reese hitch, K&N air filter
40s-2chamber Flowmaster, Bosch +4 spark plugs, rustproofing
Better Built Stainless nerf bars
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97F150 XLT SC 4x4 Flairside 4.6 V8 5sp Dk Toreador Red, 3.55LS
ARE tonneau cover, p255/70rx16 tires (came w/235), Superchip
Pioneer CD w/4 Polk Speakers & Clarion APA5240amp, skid plates
bed liner, side window deflectors, reese hitch, K&N air filter
40s-2chamber Flowmaster, Bosch +4 spark plugs, rustproofing
Better Built Stainless nerf bars
Senior Member
Joined: May 1999
Posts: 378
Likes: 0
From: Bradenton, Fl. USA
I did my first oil change on my F-150 which was also my first one in about 5yrs. the other day. I wanted Mobil One oil so I went and bought the stuff and just did it. It was so easy on this truck! You can just slide right under it and be done in no time.
when I was in high school I worked at an auto parts store for four years and you can't help but to learn a lot and I ended up doing everything from air filters to clutches to A/C repair (back when r-12 was used and vented regularly) I enjoyed it until I grew up and lost all of that time i used to have on my hands then it became a pain.
When I changed the oil the other day on my truck it brought back a lot of memories and I thouroughly enjoyed the entire 20 minutes it took to do it. I will now be doing all of my maintainence and repair except the computer stuff and anything that can't be done with standard tools. I know it gets done right and it makes you BOND with the vehicle as previously posted.
when I was in high school I worked at an auto parts store for four years and you can't help but to learn a lot and I ended up doing everything from air filters to clutches to A/C repair (back when r-12 was used and vented regularly) I enjoyed it until I grew up and lost all of that time i used to have on my hands then it became a pain.
When I changed the oil the other day on my truck it brought back a lot of memories and I thouroughly enjoyed the entire 20 minutes it took to do it. I will now be doing all of my maintainence and repair except the computer stuff and anything that can't be done with standard tools. I know it gets done right and it makes you BOND with the vehicle as previously posted.
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Senior Member
Joined: Nov 1998
Posts: 626
Likes: 0
From: New Jersey
Doug,
Strictly lube, oil and filter changes for me at this point in my life.
The posts above are quite true regarding the costs of this but I liketo do it and I know it's done right. It also gives you a chance to "look around" underneath for the possibility something is not quite right.
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Dunbarton "The Middle Aged Kid" '99 XLT SC SB 4x2 4.6 auto 3.55 ls The occasional Z-71 Eater! Wedgewood & Denim, SuperChipped, Airaid FIPK, Rhino Liner, Mobil 1, leaky rear slider. Man, I got it all! (New Jersey)
[This message has been edited by Dunbarton (edited 10-01-1999).]
Strictly lube, oil and filter changes for me at this point in my life.
The posts above are quite true regarding the costs of this but I liketo do it and I know it's done right. It also gives you a chance to "look around" underneath for the possibility something is not quite right.
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Dunbarton "The Middle Aged Kid" '99 XLT SC SB 4x2 4.6 auto 3.55 ls The occasional Z-71 Eater! Wedgewood & Denim, SuperChipped, Airaid FIPK, Rhino Liner, Mobil 1, leaky rear slider. Man, I got it all! (New Jersey)
[This message has been edited by Dunbarton (edited 10-01-1999).]
Senior Member
Joined: Jan 1999
Posts: 348
Likes: 0
From: Near Ottawa, Canada
I've done all the basic stuff (no computers and no engine-innards) on all my vehicles for the past 35 years - since I was 15. I buy good oil on sale and change it often. I think I've only gone to a quick-lube twice, both times when it was about minus 30 and I just couldn't face the cold.
When I give up doing it, I'll know I'm old.
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Black 2000 SC short-box XLT. 4.2 V-6, 5-speed, 3.55 Limited Slip. Side steps, CD, remote entry, factory box liner. My add-ons: Older Windstar (driver's side) wiper blade - the one with the air scoop, because I don't slow down when it rains; and snazzy Tweetie Bird floor mats.
My second of the "new" F150s. Great trucks!
When I give up doing it, I'll know I'm old.
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Black 2000 SC short-box XLT. 4.2 V-6, 5-speed, 3.55 Limited Slip. Side steps, CD, remote entry, factory box liner. My add-ons: Older Windstar (driver's side) wiper blade - the one with the air scoop, because I don't slow down when it rains; and snazzy Tweetie Bird floor mats.
My second of the "new" F150s. Great trucks!
Member
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 30
Likes: 0
From: Epping, NH USA
I do pretty much everything. I'm cheap and hate to pay someone to do something I can do myself. I'd rather spend the money on the proper tools and additional toys. I've done several engine rebuilds the most recent being a 350 chevey for my sons truck (rebelious little sh..). I've replaced gears,bearings,seals,etc on transmissions and transfer cases which by the way are designed by sadists. I'm not looking forward to engine work on my F150 though, it's packed in pretty tight. I did my first oil change last week. What Fun!! Especially with the 4x4. Am I missing something or do you really have to unscrew the filter from underneath and then remove it from above? I also maintain my snowmobiles, motorcycle, boat, lawn equipment, and home apliances. Do I enjoy it, not really. But if I were paying someone else, I probably couldn't afford half the stuff I got. And more stuff is good isn't it? Having the time is the other issue. I have a garage so I can work at night and on rainy days, that helps. Then I can enjoy the good days.
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97 F150 XLT S/C, Flare Side, Black over Silver, ORP, 4.6, Auto, Towing Package, Gibson Exhaust, Smittybilt Frame Mount Blk Powdercoat Bars
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97 F150 XLT S/C, Flare Side, Black over Silver, ORP, 4.6, Auto, Towing Package, Gibson Exhaust, Smittybilt Frame Mount Blk Powdercoat Bars
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 508
Likes: 0
From: Ohio
No one tinkers with my truck but me, unless absolutely necessary. I do all the maintenance and repair I can, and try to learn more along the way. Now if the repair would involve tearing down the engine, or computer diagnostics, I'm SOL.
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2000 XLT Black Sport, Flareside, 2WD, Ext. Cab, 5.4L Auto. Other factory options: 3.55 LS, Class III tow, 6-way Captains chairs w/CD changer, Remote entry , and Slider window.
Mods: Undercoat, window tint, headlight & tail light covers, removed "Sport" decals, upgraded Triton tailgate emblem, Linex spray-in bedliner, and an ARE LSII lid.
Wish list: Flowmaster duals, K&N FIPK, and a Belltech 3/4 drop.
Check it out at: http://home.columbus.rr.com/selva1/
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2000 XLT Black Sport, Flareside, 2WD, Ext. Cab, 5.4L Auto. Other factory options: 3.55 LS, Class III tow, 6-way Captains chairs w/CD changer, Remote entry , and Slider window.
Mods: Undercoat, window tint, headlight & tail light covers, removed "Sport" decals, upgraded Triton tailgate emblem, Linex spray-in bedliner, and an ARE LSII lid.
Wish list: Flowmaster duals, K&N FIPK, and a Belltech 3/4 drop.
Check it out at: http://home.columbus.rr.com/selva1/
Senior Member
Joined: Sep 1999
Posts: 118
Likes: 0
From: Canada's TROPICAL paradise
I have, at one time or another - "Done it all" from - body off restoration - to complete engine rebuilds (for a living) Owned front end align. & spring shop.
Now this old bod. only does minor stuff - oil, filters, etc. but stick my nose in if it has to on a hoist. ( I STILL ONLY TRUST ME)
No garage - so all work done in the fresh air which cuts down on a lot of stuff, BESIDES - I own a FORD TRUCK - what do you have to do to it? !!!!!
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98 F150 S/C 4.6 2wd Vermillion/Silver,HD Tow Pkg, Boards, Vents, Bug Chaser, DIY "breezer" Tailgate, 5th whl hitch, Tool box, 16" OEM Mag's,
Mobil1 /Wix Oil filter/ K&N / air box mod.
In looks & go - Chevy - like a rock.
Now this old bod. only does minor stuff - oil, filters, etc. but stick my nose in if it has to on a hoist. ( I STILL ONLY TRUST ME)
No garage - so all work done in the fresh air which cuts down on a lot of stuff, BESIDES - I own a FORD TRUCK - what do you have to do to it? !!!!!
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98 F150 S/C 4.6 2wd Vermillion/Silver,HD Tow Pkg, Boards, Vents, Bug Chaser, DIY "breezer" Tailgate, 5th whl hitch, Tool box, 16" OEM Mag's,
Mobil1 /Wix Oil filter/ K&N / air box mod.
In looks & go - Chevy - like a rock.
Senior Member
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 527
Likes: 0
From: INDIANA,.....USA " Where more than Corn grows in Indiana"!!!
I do all my pre. maintance. I`ve not done the tranny yet. With what *I figure the cost of the job, I really won`t save doing it myself. So I`ll let Ford Service do it. The rest I do .Just did the front disc pads. Fuel filter, K&n air, & added a Tornado to the air box. Platunium 3 splitfire spark plugs, mod. fog lites to work with brites on, added my own brakets & mod. stock air box for K&N filter, wired alarm to A.R.E. fg. cover,etc.......I guess I do all but the tranny! Lariat 1
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Red/Silver LARIAT, SC,Flareside 4x4 ORP,Tow Pack.,A.R.E Fg. Bedcover,3.55LS,4.6L,Auto,Spiltfire Platinum 3 Sparkplugs,K&N Airfilter W/Mod.Factory Airbox,Custom Dual Exhaust W/20`` Chrome Tips,AVS Window Shades & Door Sills & Tail Lite Slots,GTS Carbon Fiber Headlite Covers,FORD 2-Piece Bra, Tinted Windows, Pendaliner Tailgate(Inner)Cover,Ford Security System W/Motion Alarm, Foglites Works W/Brites On, FORD #1 TRUCK Under Glass On Front Bumper,A/TS Goodyear Tires,Perfomance Fiction Carbon Metallic Disc Brake Pads, Owens Fg. Step Boards,55 Watt (Replacement) Backup Lites,Pilot 55 Watt Back up Lites On Hitch Under Truck. This is LARIAT 1... IN The Great State Of Indianahttp://hometown.aol.com/terrylariat1...page/auto.html
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Red/Silver LARIAT, SC,Flareside 4x4 ORP,Tow Pack.,A.R.E Fg. Bedcover,3.55LS,4.6L,Auto,Spiltfire Platinum 3 Sparkplugs,K&N Airfilter W/Mod.Factory Airbox,Custom Dual Exhaust W/20`` Chrome Tips,AVS Window Shades & Door Sills & Tail Lite Slots,GTS Carbon Fiber Headlite Covers,FORD 2-Piece Bra, Tinted Windows, Pendaliner Tailgate(Inner)Cover,Ford Security System W/Motion Alarm, Foglites Works W/Brites On, FORD #1 TRUCK Under Glass On Front Bumper,A/TS Goodyear Tires,Perfomance Fiction Carbon Metallic Disc Brake Pads, Owens Fg. Step Boards,55 Watt (Replacement) Backup Lites,Pilot 55 Watt Back up Lites On Hitch Under Truck. This is LARIAT 1... IN The Great State Of Indianahttp://hometown.aol.com/terrylariat1...page/auto.html
Senior Member
Joined: Nov 1998
Posts: 626
Likes: 0
From: New Jersey
Lariat1,
Those here claim changing those plugs are an SOB. You agree? If and when I do mine I chase all the neighbor's little kids who "come to help" out of hearing distance......
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Dunbarton "The Middle Aged Kid" '99 XLT SC SB 4x2 4.6 auto 3.55 ls The occasional Z-71 Eater! Wedgewood & Denim, SuperChipped, Airaid FIPK, Rhino Liner, Mobil 1. Man, I got it all! (New Jersey)
Those here claim changing those plugs are an SOB. You agree? If and when I do mine I chase all the neighbor's little kids who "come to help" out of hearing distance......
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Dunbarton "The Middle Aged Kid" '99 XLT SC SB 4x2 4.6 auto 3.55 ls The occasional Z-71 Eater! Wedgewood & Denim, SuperChipped, Airaid FIPK, Rhino Liner, Mobil 1. Man, I got it all! (New Jersey)