From: owner-97up-list-digest ford-trucks.com (97up-list-digest)
To: 97up-list-digest ford-trucks.com
Subject: 97up-list-digest V2 #292
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97up-list-digest Thursday, October 28 1999 Volume 02 : Number 292



=======================================================================
Ford Truck Enthusiasts - 1997 and Newer Trucks and Vans
Visit our web site: http://www.ford-trucks.com/
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=======================================================================
In this issue:

FTE 97up - Re: Trucks Gone!
RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
RE: FTE 97up - Re: Engine Overhauls
FTE 97up - Re: 97up - Oil Leaks
Re: FTE 97up - Re: Engine Overhauls
Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)
FTE 97up - New Engine for Expedition Question
Re: FTE 97up - dual mode transmission
Re: FTE 97up - weird problem
Re: [Re: FTE 97up - weird problem]... add on
RE: FTE 97up - Alarms (was Trucks Gone!)
FTE 97up - ADMIN: New policy
Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
Re: FTE 97up - New Engine for Expedition Question
Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
FTE 97up - questions for future towing....
FTE 97up - FQR engine replacements
Re: FTE 97up - questions for future towing....
FTE 97up - Fwd: Trucks Gone!
FTE 97up - Truck's gone
Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)
Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)
Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
Re: FTE 97up - RESOLVED! Fairway Sport & Performance
Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)
Re: FTE 97up - Truck's gone

=======================================================================

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 09:09:06 PDT
From: "Art Verling"
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: Trucks Gone!

I can get a very cool product that you can control your vehicle using a
pager number. The cost of the back box is about $150.00 plus install and
about $35.00 a year for the service.
Here is how it works, it is a reliable pager that installs
inside your vehicle to control various electrical circuits and
powered features.The heart of the CommandLink system is
the CreataLink module, manufactured by Motorola. This
device uses the same reliable pager technology used by
millions of people daily worldwide.

To use it, you simply dial our toll-free 800
number from any phone, enter your personal indentification
code, and press the phone button that activates your
desired command. A wireless signal is transmitted to your
vehicle from our nationwide paging system, and the
CommandLink module in your vehicle activates the feature.



Phone Button Feature Result
1 Unlock Doors Power door locks
open
2 Lock Doors Power door locks
close
3 Locate Vehicle Lights flash and
horn honks for 30 seconds
4 Remote Vehicle Remote starter
circuit activated starting
5 Stolen / hijacked car Horn honks, lights
flash and starter disable
6 Open Trunk Power trunk
release opens
7 Starter Disable Starter disable
circuit activates
8 Reset System All systems reset
to normal operation
9 Customized Options Control selected
options installed on vehicle

This is a very cool deal. You can reply to me directly if your interested.

See Ya,
Art
art.verling excite.com




________________________________________________________________
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 11:22:03 -0700
From: "Craig, Dennis"
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

thanks for the warning. I have been thinking about checking one out to see
if there is anything to their claim(s), but in the world today of "Customer
NO Support" I doubt I will try one now. It doesn't take much to keep a
customer happy, in fact more effort seems to be expelled making it difficult
to get support...

"press 2 if you want to talk to somebody who can't help you"
"press any other number to be hung up on"


- -----Original Message-----
From: Steve Zinski [mailto:szinski richmond.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 11:04 AM
To: 'Late-Model F-150 Mailing List'; '97up-list ford-trucks.com'
Subject: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance


I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html

After installing the Transcommand and testing it on my truck, I decided that
I did not notice enough of a performance increase to justify its high cost
($229). I promptly contacted Fairway to in order to process the return and
received this very pleasant and politely written REFUSAL to refund my money:

- -----

"I'm sorry to hear that the Banks Transcommand didn't do everything you had
hoped it would for you. Our policy, like most similar businesses, is to not
take returns on any electrical items. If it were defective, we would happily
repair or exchange it for you. I hope that the firmer shifting that
you have mentioned that the Banks unit has provided you with will be of
sufficient benefit to you in the years you own your truck to satisfy you, as
has been the case with hundreds of other customers who purchased Banks TCM's
from us. Thank you for your business."

- -----

Fairway's web site does not state this policy anywhere, nor did their
salesperson bother to state this policy before I purchased the unit (I would
not have purchased from them had I known about their "policy"). The unit was
on my truck for several hours before I contacted them and it was unblemished
and in perfect resalable condition. I've ordered items from many other
Internet sites and all have 100% satisfaction money-back guarantees. Their
statement about "most similar businesses" not taking returns is pure BS. I
also sent an email to their general manager which has gone unanswered. Talk
about great customer service.

So I offer this word of warning to any potential Fairway customer: BUYER
BEWARE!

--Steve
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 11:26:32 -0700
From: "Craig, Dennis"
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

Great news, this will open my mind again. I hope everybody has had good
experience with this company?
dc

- -----Original Message-----
From: Craig, Dennis
Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 1999 11:22 AM
To: '97up-list ford-trucks.com'; 'Late-Model F-150 Mailing List'
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance


thanks for the warning. I have been thinking about checking one out to see
if there is anything to their claim(s), but in the world today of "Customer
NO Support" I doubt I will try one now. It doesn't take much to keep a
customer happy, in fact more effort seems to be expelled making it difficult
to get support...

"press 2 if you want to talk to somebody who can't help you"
"press any other number to be hung up on"


- -----Original Message-----
From: Steve Zinski [mailto:szinski richmond.edu]
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 11:04 AM
To: 'Late-Model F-150 Mailing List'; '97up-list ford-trucks.com'
Subject: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance


I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html

After installing the Transcommand and testing it on my truck, I decided that
I did not notice enough of a performance increase to justify its high cost
($229). I promptly contacted Fairway to in order to process the return and
received this very pleasant and politely written REFUSAL to refund my money:

- -----

"I'm sorry to hear that the Banks Transcommand didn't do everything you had
hoped it would for you. Our policy, like most similar businesses, is to not
take returns on any electrical items. If it were defective, we would happily
repair or exchange it for you. I hope that the firmer shifting that
you have mentioned that the Banks unit has provided you with will be of
sufficient benefit to you in the years you own your truck to satisfy you, as
has been the case with hundreds of other customers who purchased Banks TCM's
from us. Thank you for your business."

- -----

Fairway's web site does not state this policy anywhere, nor did their
salesperson bother to state this policy before I purchased the unit (I would
not have purchased from them had I known about their "policy"). The unit was
on my truck for several hours before I contacted them and it was unblemished
and in perfect resalable condition. I've ordered items from many other
Internet sites and all have 100% satisfaction money-back guarantees. Their
statement about "most similar businesses" not taking returns is pure BS. I
also sent an email to their general manager which has gone unanswered. Talk
about great customer service.

So I offer this word of warning to any potential Fairway customer: BUYER
BEWARE!

--Steve
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 11:29:36 -0700
From: "Craig, Dennis"
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Re: Engine Overhauls

I drove my 85'toyota 4x4, extremely hard for 220,000, it ran great until I
let the oil get too low and it has lost power. My fault! No telling how far
it was going to go.

dc



- -----Original Message-----
From: Brrojo aol.com [mailto:Brrojo aol.com]
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 3:49 PM
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: Engine Overhauls




> Date: Mon, 25 Oct 1999 09:13:29 -0700
> From: STEPHEN_WITTE hp-sandiego-om2.om.hp.com
> Subject: FTE 97up - Engine Overhauls
>
>
> I'm just curious how many people have driven trucks over 200,000
miles
> without major overhauls?

Had an 89 Ranger 2wd with the infamous 2.9 V6 5 speed and managed 287,000.
I
saw it on the road this summer and the guy was driving it 160 miles round
trip each day, it was well over 300k. Engine wise, all I ever replaced was
the water pump....three times I think.
>
> Also, how many people have ever had to overhaul an engine in their
> lifetimes?

I didn't "have" to, but I rebuilt a 1970 429 (non CJ) from a Merc Marquis
ragtop. Pretty much stock rebuild. Everybody who likes to wrench should do

this at least once. It was very satisfying listening to that thing fire up
the first time. Oh, and the power was pretty impressive too.

Brian
97 F150 4X4 5.4
with a crack in the door

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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 15:10:31 -0500
From: Gary Fuchs
Subject: FTE 97up - Re: 97up - Oil Leaks

Thanks for your input. This is my first Ford product and I'm not quite sure
what to expect. The dealer did a partial job cleaning off the engine but it
is still a mess. The leak is definitely smaller, about the size it was the
first time I noticed the truck had a leak but quite a bit smaller than it
was when I finally got the truck to the dealer for repair. I took the truck
to work today and the leak is still there. I'll give it another couple of
days then bring it back to the dealer. Thanks again.

Gary F

>
>Date: Tue, 26 Oct 1999 21:21:59 EDT
>From: CERESJohnG aol.com
>Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Oil Leaks
>
>Gary;
>This is not your mothers VW Beetle and there is no excuse for oil leaks at
>12k miles. Sounds as if the dealer didn't have a clue so he replaced
>everyting he could get a wrench on. This is one of those problems that
could
>go on forever. The dealer is the first line however. Give him one more
shot.
>If he fails, request a meeting with a factory rep.
>
>The right way to do this is to steamclean the engine and undercarriage, and
>put a flourescent dye in the oil. A day or two and go after it with a black
>light. The source will be evident.
>
>My question though is this. Is the leakage improved, (less)? Did the
dealer
>clean off the undercarriage after the fix? Could this be residual from
before
>just dripping down?
>
>John G






Gary Fuchs
Senior Engineer
Unipower Corp.
2 Park Drive Unit 3
Westford, MA 01886

Phone (978)589-9700
FAX (978)589-9797
www.unipower-corp.com
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 14:55:53 -0500 (CDT)
From: "Douglas R. Floyd"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Re: Engine Overhauls

>
> I drove my 85'toyota 4x4, extremely hard for 220,000, it ran great until I
> let the oil get too low and it has lost power. My fault! No telling how far
> it was going to go.
>
> dc
>
>

I have noticed, it matters far more that a person does good maintainence on
a vehicle, than how easy/hard it is driven.
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 17:09:41 -0700
From: "Steve J. Hodson"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

I can't say I would buy anything from fairway ford but I have been very
happy with my Banks TransCommand. I did not want an extremely hard shift
from my 4R100, just to tighten and quicken up shifts a bit and that is what
I got from the unit. I agree that $200+ is a lot to spend for what Ford
should have designed into my 99 F350 anyway, a dual mode transmission like
Chevy offers.
- -----Original Message-----
From: Craig, Dennis
To: '97up-list ford-trucks.com' ; 'Late-Model
F-150 Mailing List'
Date: Wednesday, October 27, 1999 11:22 AM
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance


>thanks for the warning. I have been thinking about checking one out to see
>if there is anything to their claim(s), but in the world today of "Customer
>NO Support" I doubt I will try one now. It doesn't take much to keep a
>customer happy, in fact more effort seems to be expelled making it
difficult
>to get support...
>
>"press 2 if you want to talk to somebody who can't help you"
>"press any other number to be hung up on"
>
>
>-----Original Message-----
>From: Steve Zinski [mailto:szinski richmond.edu]
>Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 11:04 AM
>To: 'Late-Model F-150 Mailing List'; '97up-list ford-trucks.com'
>Subject: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance
>
>
>I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
>module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
>http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html
>
>After installing the Transcommand and testing it on my truck, I decided
that
>I did not notice enough of a performance increase to justify its high cost
>($229). I promptly contacted Fairway to in order to process the return and
>received this very pleasant and politely written REFUSAL to refund my
money:
>
>-----
>
>"I'm sorry to hear that the Banks Transcommand didn't do everything you had
>hoped it would for you. Our policy, like most similar businesses, is to not
>take returns on any electrical items. If it were defective, we would
happily
>repair or exchange it for you. I hope that the firmer shifting that
>you have mentioned that the Banks unit has provided you with will be of
>sufficient benefit to you in the years you own your truck to satisfy you,
as
>has been the case with hundreds of other customers who purchased Banks
TCM's
>from us. Thank you for your business."
>
>-----
>
>Fairway's web site does not state this policy anywhere, nor did their
>salesperson bother to state this policy before I purchased the unit (I
would
>not have purchased from them had I known about their "policy"). The unit
was
>on my truck for several hours before I contacted them and it was
unblemished
>and in perfect resalable condition. I've ordered items from many other
>Internet sites and all have 100% satisfaction money-back guarantees. Their
>statement about "most similar businesses" not taking returns is pure BS. I
>also sent an email to their general manager which has gone unanswered. Talk
>about great customer service.
>
>So I offer this word of warning to any potential Fairway customer: BUYER
>BEWARE!
>
> --Steve
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>== FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html

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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 17:15:20 -0700
From: "Steve J. Hodson"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)

What rims are you using to fit 305/16's? Are the 2000 rims wider than the
1999 rims or did you go with and aftermarket rim to fit the tires? The 1999
OEM rims on the F250 are 7 inches wide and a 265/75/16 is the largest tire
that is recommended for this rim width. Several folks have posted messages
about running 285/75/16's on the 7 inch rims but not many miles have been
logged yet. Congratulations on your new truck even with the unplanned engine
swap!
- -----Original Message-----
From: David & Laura Manuel
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Date: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 8:56 PM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)


>Congratulations! I picked up my 2000 SD, F250, V-10, 4WD, Crew cab,
>longbed from Carmenita, Steve Huntsman, in Early September. Steve
>equipped it with 305 Goodyear Wranglers, a Line-X liner and a Snugtop
>cover. It looks great and Steve was a joy to work with. One problem,
>it's been in and out of the service shop since I took delivery. The
>engine makes a knocking-type noise between 2k and 3k rpm. I had it in
>Carmenita's service shop four different times. They all agreed, three
>service managers and the service warranty manager, that the noise was
>there and it was not normal. Yet, each time I would get the truck back
>the same day and was told that they don't think it's a major problem and
>I should just drive it and hope it goes away or bring it in later if it
>doesn't go away after a few thousand miles. I was not satisfied. I
>then took it to Fairway Ford in Placentia. They heard the noise, said
>it is not right and said they would fix it. They have been working with
>Ford engineers on trying to diagnose the problem. Last week the dropped
>an entire new engine in the truck. Ford sent the engine from the
>plant. The noise is still there. On Thursday, Oct. 27 it goes back in
>for a new computer. Maybe that will fix it. The dealership, great
>people, and Ford engineers have decided to spend whatever time and
>effort it takes to find and fix the problem. Something that I didn't
>feel I had at Carmenita. It's a shame that my new truck has to be
>diagnosed and pulled apart piece by piece, but I guess it's the only way
>to find the problem. I'm in contact with Ford's Customer Assistance
>Center to document everything on a regular basis. Hopefully I won't
>need to pursue other options for a fix, but I want to be sure I'm
>covered if needed. I'll keep everyone up-to-date on my progress.
>Hopefully no others are having the same noise. Just wanted to let you
>know about my experiences with the different dealerships. Let me know
>if anyone has any suggestions or words of wisdom for me. Thanks.
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 16:03:44 -0500
From: "Charles Abraham"
Subject: FTE 97up - New Engine for Expedition Question

My daughter's husband took their '98 Expedition EB to one
of those quick oil change places, and ended-up blowing the
engine as a result.

My question is: will Ford install a new engine or a rebuilt?

It looks like the quick oil place's insurance is going to pay.
I just don't want Ford trying to slip in a re-manufactured block,
instead of a brand-new one.

What apparently happen is the gasket of the old oil filter
separated from the filter body during removal. Unaware of
this, the guy doing the oil change, installed the new oil filter
over it. Then, under pressure, the old gasket blew, causing
a complete loss of engine oil.

Charles.



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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 16:53:04 -0500
From: "Union Auto"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - dual mode transmission

Just for the record Ford has had the Tow-Haul feature for many years. It is
automatic so it doesn't have a switch, but it can adjust shift patterns for
hilly terrain, towing, or high altitude driving.

Nathan Bernard
Union Auto, inc

- ----- Original Message -----
From: Steve J. Hodson
To:
Sent: Wednesday, October 27, 1999 7:09 PM
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance


> I can't say I would buy anything from fairway ford but I have been very
> happy with my Banks TransCommand. I did not want an extremely hard shift
> from my 4R100, just to tighten and quicken up shifts a bit and that is
what
> I got from the unit. I agree that $200+ is a lot to spend for what Ford
> should have designed into my 99 F350 anyway, a dual mode transmission like
> Chevy offers.


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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 19:02:34 -0400
From: "Ron,Marge,Ted"
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - weird problem

I'm having the same problem with Helm's trying to get a service manual for
my 98 F-150. It's been out of stock now for months and when I e-mailed them
about it, they said they don't know when it will be available!!

Ron
- ----- Original Message -----
From: Stan Wright
To: Ford Truck group
Sent: Tuesday, October 26, 1999 8:22 PM
Subject: FTE 97up - weird problem


> > This brings another question. Does anyone know where I can get a manual
> (especially electrical) for the truck other than the Helm's website?
> It's said "insufficient inventory to process my order" for the last 3
> months.
>
> Thanks.
>
> == FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.html
>

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------------------------------

Date: 27 Oct 99 16:34:47 PDT
From: lee cowell
Subject: Re: [Re: FTE 97up - weird problem]... add on

Stan...
we've ordered a y2k F350 & also noted that posting for the y2k model year=
at
Helms as well. still can't obtain schematics for 1999? also interested in=

obtaining these. can we get them from a dealer? afterall, what happens wh=
en
they're faced with an electrical problem that the computer cannot resolve=
?
they also need those schematics or they're sol. any help anyone?

Stan Wright wrote:
Thanks!

Jean Marc Chartier wrote:

> Stan Wright wrote:
> >
> > When I came home tonight and turned off my truck (1999 F250 SD) a
> > buzzing sound came from underneath the dash. It would stay on
> > continuously until I turned the key on. It kind of sounds like a
> > buzzing fire alarm they have in buildings. I took off the coverplate=
to
> > gain access under the dash. The buzzing comes from a black box locat=
ed
> > behind the dash under the dash storage pocket. It sounds like a rela=
y
> > buzzing, if you've ever heard that.
> >
> > I started removing fuses one-by-one until I found one that shut if of=
f.
> > According to the owner's manual it is fuse location 24...'Blend Door
> > Actuator, Trailer Tow Battery Charge Relay Coil'. I have no idea wha=
t
> > this is, does anyone out there know? Leaving the fuse out doesn't se=
em
> > to have any affect on the truck's operation, so I guess I'll leave it=

> > out for the time being.
> >
> > This brings another question. Does anyone know where I can get a man=
ual
> > (especially electrical) for the truck other than the Helm's website?
> > It's said "insufficient inventory to process my order" for the last 3=

> > months.
> >
> > Thanks.
> >
> > =3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/f=
aq.html
>
> Stan,
>
> The Blend Door Actuator is the motor for lack of a better
> word that controls the heat in your truck. It closes and
> opens a door that forces the selected amount of incoming air
> over the heater core in order to heat the truck. I would
> have it looked at.
>
> Regards
>
> Jean Marc Chartier
> =3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq=
=2Ehtml

=3D=3D FTE: Uns*bscribe and posting info http://www.ford-trucks.com/faq.h=
tml


____________________________________________________________________
Get your own FREE, personal Netscape WebMail account today at http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://webm=
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 18:37:40 -0500
From: jmann living.com
Subject: RE: FTE 97up - Alarms (was Trucks Gone!)

Brent, sorry for your loss.

But, guys, this brings up a good question,( CommandLink aside) how do we
protect our Trucks? Granted, if the crock has the keys, he has the truck.
No matter what's protecting it. My 2000 SC 150 Lariat 4x4 is due in
November 15. I've spoken to the dealer about the factory alarm/keyless
entry system. But I'm not too confident in its ability to protect the truck
from a would be thief. The custom shop that is owned by my dealer, Covert
Ford, Austin TX, caries Viper Alarms and says they can extend the
functionality of the factory alarm with Viper models. Any thoughts or
comment about the factory alarm and aftermarket units?? Your info is
greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Joe
http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.living.com





- -----Original Message-----
From: bwat wa.freei.net [mailto:bwat wa.freei.net]
Sent: Monday, October 25, 1999 8:00 PM
To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
Subject: FTE 97up - Trucks Gone!

Bad day for me! My '99 250 SD supercab, Lariart was STOLEN
tonight from Work! Someone went thru my coat in the back room
and took the keys (to the house, & store too). It's gone, I'll take
any prayers or thoughts for it soming back in one piece. I'm
dreading the thought of dealing with the insurance company. I
did not pay MSRP (more like invoice + $100) but it's the extras
I've added (and they add up) that I'll have to fight for. I saw that
study on high potential for theft and my truck was on it! A warning
for the rest of you...

TIA, Brent in Seattle
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 19:36:16 -0400
From: Ken Payne
Subject: FTE 97up - ADMIN: New policy

ADMIN: New policy ---- Please read!

As many of our old-timers may remember, we started a
policy of filtering out all special character formatting
and HTML in emails posted to the list.

This policy was put in place over 2 years ago because
many people where using email software that could not
handle such items correctly (mostly Unix email software).
This made life easier for those users but there was and
continues to be a tremendous burden on the list admins
and many users who post for first time.

There are many reasons for these burdens:

1. Many first time posters have font and/or color
settings in their email software. Their first post
gets rejected by our list server and they receive
an email detailing how to change the settings in
their software.

2. For each of the instances of item 1, either Keith
Srb (admin of three of the lists) or I have to
****manually**** send the instruction email.

3. Some users are unable to correct their settings,
either because they are unfamiliar with their
email software or our standard mailing does not
software their particular software (there is no
way we can possibly cover all email software
titles).

This is not something that occurs occasionally, but
happens many times each day. FTE has grown well
beyond the size it was when the policy was started.
At that time, we had less than 1,000 subscribers.
We now have over 5,000 and the lists continue to
grow.

FTE has always been something that I care deeply
about and I've continued to offer more free services
to our users as funds have allowed. While our funding
has increased and we're no longer losing thousands
of $$$ per year on this hobby gone amuck, my available
time has remained constant.

As some of my friends that I've made through the
lists know, FTE has been cutting into my family life
for a LONG time. 90% of this time is administering
the lists.

The demographics of email users has changed considerably
since we first instated the policy. Fewer than 1% of
our visitors are using Unix software as opposed to
15% 2 years ago. Most new releases of Unix email
software now supports HTML and character formatting.

The policy is obsolete. Beginning sometime next week
we will be removing the filters.

Rest assured that users who abuse this by using loud
fonts, huge characters, etc, will be warned to tone
it down.

Additionally, since the current filters block out
any possibility of viruses getting posted to the
lists, when the filters are removed, new filters
will be put in place which will block out file
attachments such as:

JPGs, GIFs, DOCs, COM, DLL, EXE, etc...

This will prevent email viruses getting posted.

Regards,
Ken Payne
Admin, Ford Truck Enthusiasts


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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 19:43:27 -0400
From: Ken Payne
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

At 02:03 PM 10/26/99 -0400, you wrote:
>I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
>module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
>http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html
>
>After installing the Transcommand and testing it on my truck, I decided that
>I did not notice enough of a performance increase to justify its high cost
>($229). I promptly contacted Fairway to in order to process the return and
>received this very pleasant and politely written REFUSAL to refund my money:
- -snip-

Actually, this policy is quit common because people
can fry electronics through misuse or improper
installation. Summit and many of the biggies, plus
every junkyard and many parts stores have this
policy.

Ken Payne

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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 18:29:21 -0700
From: Ralph Lindberg
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - New Engine for Expedition Question

>My daughter's husband took their '98 Expedition EB to one
>of those quick oil change places, and ended-up blowing the
>engine as a result.
>
>My question is: will Ford install a new engine or a rebuilt?
>
>It looks like the quick oil place's insurance is going to pay.
>I just don't want Ford trying to slip in a re-manufactured block,
>instead of a brand-new one.
>
>What apparently happen is the gasket of the old oil filter
>separated from the filter body during removal. Unaware of
>this, the guy doing the oil change, installed the new oil filter
>over it. Then, under pressure, the old gasket blew, causing
>a complete loss of engine oil.

Charlie, this is big enough bucks that if the oil change place will not
do it any other way, your daughter needs to hire a lawyer ($100) to write
them a letter. This appears to be a very clear case of liability on their
part.

One of the local WalMarts hosed a friends car in a similar fashion and
didn't even blink when it came to replacing the engine.

As one of my good friends says "this is why I don't pay minium wage
people to do things to my $30K vehicles:

Ralph Lindberg ICQ 5988954
RV and Camping FAQ
Just because MS-Window's holds 90% of the market doesn't mean it's
superior. Remember 90% of all animals are insects.



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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 18:25:53 -0700
From: Ralph Lindberg
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

>At 02:03 PM 10/26/99 -0400, you wrote:
>>I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
>>module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
>>http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html
>>
>>After installing the Transcommand and testing it on my truck, I decided that
>>I did not notice enough of a performance increase to justify its high cost
>>($229). I promptly contacted Fairway to in order to process the return and
>>received this very pleasant and politely written REFUSAL to refund my money:
>-snip-
>
>Actually, this policy is quit common because people
>can fry electronics through misuse or improper
>installation. Summit and many of the biggies, plus
>every junkyard and many parts stores have this
>policy.

I'd say the 'no-returns' on electronic parts is the rule. I can't recall
any store that accepts returns of electrical items (after they had been
installed)


Ralph Lindberg ICQ 5988954
RV and Camping FAQ
Just because MS-Window's holds 90% of the market doesn't mean it's
superior. Remember 90% of all animals are insects.



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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 21:54:42 EDT
From: RSnovi aol.com
Subject: FTE 97up - questions for future towing....

I may have a job offer from some one through my father knows that does some
restoration work on cars and sends them overseas. i would inspect for future
purchase, then haul them most in south east i think, mostly performance
oreinted cars impala, mustangs, GNs, yada,yada,yada. This is pretty familar
to me since i have been in driveing race cars for a few years now.

My question is he informed my something about a 3 car goose or whatever, You
guys that haul cars behind the power stoke give me some ideas for a ideal
setup. I dont know if the have a trailer yet or not, i was thinking a 2 car
bumper pull might work pretty good?
I don't know these people yet, i am just trying to get some ideas on what
seems to work best behind a SRW.

Most i have towed so far is just a single car trailer.

thanks
Ross S.
99 F250SD PSD/SC/4x4
285/75/16 BFG mudd terrains, 5in exhaust, no cat
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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 22:19:35 -0500
From: "Manuel Ziegler"
Subject: FTE 97up - FQR engine replacements

I am writing this to help others understrand what is involved if they need
to have their engines replaced ( due to piston slap) by Ford and their local
dealers. I brought my truck to Covert Ford in Austin Tx. to have it checked
out for the infamous piston slap, I asked and was told no less than 6 times
that I would receive a new engine and so there was no doubt in my mind that
I would receive anything but. When I picked the truck up after 4 days in
the shop it came to quite a shock that I received a remanufactured (rebuilt)
engine. I have come to understand that if you recieve a FQR engine then it
is a rebuilt engine from Ford, they (dealer) take your old engine and send
it back to Ford and put another rebuilt engine (FQR) and shove it into your
truck. Make no mistake , if you have a 1998 5.4l with 235hp then you will
get the same engine model put into your truck, not the 260hp version that is
in the 1999 models.. Lots of folks are misinformed on this site as to what
they are receiving as a replacement, the fqr engine does not have a build
date on it like the original engines in the trucks, and they come from Ford
as a long block with all parts attacked, even oil and filter, but they use
your old intake manifold and fuel injection components on the replacement
blocks. These are not new engines, they are rebuilt engines from Ford,
don't let them tell you otherwise, I know, I have been going round and round
with these clowns. Sorry this was so long of a posting but I feel that I
must make the situation known.
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 21:02:00 -0700
From: Ralph Lindberg
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - questions for future towing....

>.... I dont know if the have a trailer yet or not, i was thinking a 2 car
>bumper pull might work pretty good?

Why not a goose-neck, more stability and safety in the tow

Ralph Lindberg ICQ 5988954
RV and Camping FAQ
Just because MS-Window's holds 90% of the market doesn't mean it's
superior. Remember 90% of all animals are insects.



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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 21:23:46 +700
From: bwat wa.freei.net
Subject: FTE 97up - Fwd: Trucks Gone!

****** Forwarded Message Follows *******
>To: 97up-list ford-trucks.com
>From: bwat wa.freei.net
>Date: Tue, 26 Oct 1999 01:00:18 +700
>Bad day for me! My '99 250 SD supercab, Lariart was STOLEN
>tonight from Work! Someone went thru my coat in the back room
>and took the keys (to the house, & store too). It's gone, I'll take
>any prayers or thoughts for it soming back in one piece. I'm
>dreading the thought of dealing with the insurance company. I
>did not pay MSRP (more like invoice + $100) but it's the extras
>I've added (and they add up) that I'll have to fight for. I saw that
>study on high potential for theft and my truck was on it! A warning
>for the rest of you...
>
>TIA, Brent in Seattle
>
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------------------------------

Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 22:33:59 +700
From: bwat wa.freei.net
Subject: FTE 97up - Truck's gone

No good news to pass on...i.e. no truck..
The "study was in the Seattle Times a week or so ago. Probably
a result of the insurance industries ability to collude on rates, etc.
(to keep 'em up) and evaluate which vehicles incurs the most
frequent theft rates. '99 Ford trucks were 4,5, or 6 on the list, i
don't remember exactly. In this case ALMOST no anti-theft device
would have worked because they had my keys. But I liked the
airbag lock trick..Maybe next time I'll put a kill switch under the dash..professionals
probably know all the tricks though!! Any
other ideas? My wife is being pretty testy on this, says only a
beatter for me from now on. Any thoughts as to what kind of $$
i'll need to replace it? You're right, I'm not sure I'd want it back?

More later, Brent , truckless in Seattle :=(
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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 23:13:48 -0800
From: David & Laura Manuel
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)

I'm using the stock XLT rims, 305/75/16 I believe is the tire. They
look great and ride fine. No problems. I'm off to Glamis(a bunch of
sand dunes in California) this weekend. The off-road tread will keep me
out of trouble. The dealer I got the truck from equipped the truck for
me. They offer these tires for $400(mounted, balanced and all) plus the
stock tires in trade. I checked with Goodyear and they wanted almost
$800.00 for the tires and install. I believe I got a deal. Let me know
if you have any questions. Thanks.
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Date: Wed, 27 Oct 1999 23:27:35 -0800
From: David & Laura Manuel
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - Truck is here! (NO, not the stolen one!)

I'm running on the stock XLT rims. The tires are 305/75/16 I believe.
My dealer set up the truck before delivery. They offer a special deal
on these tires through a local shop($400 plus the stock Ford tires). A
great deal. The dealer believes these are the largest tire to use on
the stock rims and without affecting speedo and power. I checked the
speedo with my gps and found it to be about 2 mph off. Not bad. I've
only got 1100 miles on the truck, it spends a lot of time in the service
bay, but no complaints about the tires or ride. I spend a lot of time
off road and need the agressive tread offered by the Goodyear. And I
prefer the look over the BFG's. Let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks.
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------------------------------

Date: Thu, 28 Oct 1999 01:43:52 -0700
From: Dave Santo
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - BEWARE: Fairway Sport & Performance

>I recently purchased a Banks Power "Transcommand" transmission control
>module from Fairway Ford (Fairway Sport & Performance of Placentia, CA) at
>http://www.ford-trucks.com//lc/lc.php?action=do&link=http://www.go2fairway.com/parts/spparts/spparts.html

[snip]


Steve,

If you purchased with a credit card, namely Visa or Mastercard,
others too, I guess, you can file a dispute with them. Call your
bank! They will, hopefully as mine does (Citibank), give you
IMMEDIATE credit on your account. Then, they should send you a
one-page form to fill out wherein you can explain that you tried to
return the product with no success and DEFINITELY EXPLAIN THE WEBSITE
WHERE NO POLICY IS THERE INFORMING YOU ABOUT THEIR RETURNS POLICY, or
lack thereof!

I did this with a piece of software I downloaded off the internet.
Most features were functional, but, not all! So, I paid for the full
program ($25), saw how it operated, choose another program and bought
THAT ONE. I emailed Kagi and the software vendor and they put up a
fight and wouldn't refund my money. In the end... I WON!

Do it!

Hope I've helped.
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Date: Thu, 28 Oct 1999 01:45:09 -0700
From: Dave Santo
Subject: Re: FTE 97up - RESOLVED! Fairway Sport & Performance

Oops! I should have read further. Oh well, maybe the previous info
will help someone in the future.....

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