Preparing for Ford Nationals - Random Small Projects

Today, I did a few small items on the Mustang in order to prepare for the trip to the Mid-America Ford Nationals.  

Check Torque on Intake Manifold
I checked the torque of the intake manifold bolts and a few needed a little tightening to get to 15 ft/lbs.  I'd tightened them previously after installing the intake but I've not tightened them since.  After a little driving, I felt it best to give them a check.

Check Water Pump Bolt Torque
I decided I'd check the torque on each of these and the water neck to ensure they in now way are contributing to the coolant leak.  Unfortunately, I could not get my torque wrench to most of these due to the pulleys.  I tightened them by hand to what I believe to be 15 ft/lbs.  Several of them were a little lose but only one has faded paint around it as if it might be part of the leak.

License Plate Light Grommet
I picked up a rubber grommet from Lowe's and used to to reinstall the license plate light.  It was not a perfect fit but with some work I managed.  The goal was to get it back in and seal up the hole so as to not allow any exhaust fumes into the vehicle.  My new grommet will do that job without the need to buy a new light assembly.

Door Pull Knob Rattle
I thought I had a rattle from the door unlock knob on the drivers door.  However, as I checked closer today, it was not there but the quarter window behind the door.  I took everything apart to investigate and found some loose bolts which hold the quarter window support.  While I had it apart, I added some Dynamat to the quarter window panel as I had left that part out when putting on Dynamat in the past.

After taking care of these items, I wiped down the car and then cleaned out the trunk.  This does not really help get me ready for the Ford Nationals trip but you feel better about your vehicle when it is clean.   

My list to complete still includes the following.  I have until June but since I had some time this weekend, I thought I would get started...

Lubricate U-Joints & Check Torque
Fix Rattle by Clutch Pedal
Replace Firewall Grommets
Fix Sqeaky Leaf Springs

Install Amp & Subwoofer

Insulate Fuel Line to Carb
Correct Air-Fuel Ratio (Fronts to 59)
Check for Leaks on AF Sensor
Headlight Relay Harness
Fan Shroud
Check Drive Shaft Length
Add Underlayment Pieces
Replace Reverse Lights
Add Air Conditioning
Fix Anti-Freeze Leaks
Cowl Vent Block-Off Plate