Maintaining your Ford Crown Victoria P71/P7B Police Interceptor

[@ramvanbobby3889]

My p71 has been so reliable I love this car

[@rileypancoast222]

I have a 2009 crown vic. so i read alot of online stuff regarding p71s. most guys take 15minutes to give 30seconds of info.it was nice to see yours. you gave a lot of good info. and from what i know, it was all correct. YOU MAKE A FINE VIDEO. THANKS. (ive never subscribed before, but i will subsribe to you.)

[@FordFan2156]

Thank you so much WJ! I'll hopefully be getting a P71/P7B here soon and every one of your CVPI videos gives me so much more knowledge and stuff to look out for! Your probably the best KZbinr with a CVPI, thanks again!

[@WJHandyDad]

Thank you... I'm glad you enjoy my videos.

[@CrownRickAuto]

great info!

[@gorgewashingtonful]

Rain-X blades are a must, they just seem better made and last longer than cheap ones

[@cardinaloflannagancr8929]

Most of the changes to the tune of the p71 are for durability quicker firmer shifts create less slip(heat). It also handles the egr slightly different . The pcm is programmed somewhat more agressive. But using the 80mm maf and marauder zip intake tube are what adds the 15hp over dual exhaust civilian models.

[@chiefjoe8706]

My 2009 is a P71.

[@falkin55]

A+ simple and informative

[@wildthing4471]

Rain x for wiper blades.....2yr warranty from Walmart....or rain x

[@cardinaloflannagancr8929]

E85 is one thing often people are buying flex fuel, flex is actually 50-83% ethanol and currently contains 0 cleaners. Gasoline cleaners are not compatible with that % of ethanol. You also can watch your gas gauge move. I did for a few tanks to see as you lose about 20%-30% mpg. While you can get more power from full e85 that requires a custom tune. Thus either sticking with or having the ability to select between stock. Our cars can run flex but they don't optimize for it merely can adjust to a limited extent to perform normalish.

[@MiddleEasternGuy]

Excellent and in depth video, thank you.

[@gang6009]

I put 70w 140 in my 08 p74

[@Head2ToeTheatrical]

My gas cap has to be opened from inside the trunk with a cable style pull.

[@WJHandyDad]

what year model? Pre 2004?

[@Head2ToeTheatrical]

@@WJHandyDad 2004

[@WJHandyDad]

I didn't realize the 2004 still had those locking caps. My 2003 had one but my 2008 & 2010 don't

[@a.l.1482]

I have a 2010 CVPI Civil model LX Flex Fuel with ONLY 64,600 Kms and like to know Can I use? the coolant VALVOLINE ZEREX GOLD. Replace Because of the age of the coolant 2010 The temperature of the Engine is Normal Gracias y saludos

[@WJHandyDad]

this should help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqm0mmmNas2EeNU

[@mostilly]

2003 and up civilian and fleet models use the same brake rotors and calipers.

[@carrytrainer.editor3321]

I’m a new owner… I did some research on the Ford 4.6 and it seems like 5w30 is really what’s best for the engine.

[@WJHandyDad]

unfortunately without getting two identical ones and running the spec 5w-20 in one and 5w-30 in the other over a long time, I don't know that we could ever really know if one is better than the other.

[@carrytrainer.editor3321]

@@WJHandyDad I know what you mean. My understanding is Ford originally ran this engine on 5w30... then switched it to 5w20 because of government CAFE standards. The lighter oil got slightly higher miles per gallon and reduced environmental fines from the federal government.

[@WJHandyDad]

@@carrytrainer.editor3321 I've heard that too but I've also heard others say it's not true. So I don't know what is correct. But you are correct that the original recommendation was 5w-30 for the 4.6L and then they changed to 5w-20 without apparently changing anything about the engine that would necessitate a viscosity change

[@oOgy172]

​@@carrytrainer.editor3321I run 5w-20 because my commute usually stays under 10 miles and the weather is cooler most of the year. 5w-30 should be "better" in terms of lubricity but many other manufacturers do the same thing where they switch oils halfway through a generation

[@DoctorHouston]

I have a 2008 p70

[@sd33zy313]

How can you tell when the cpu go bad? Im getting little to no shifting and under 20 to 30 rpms seems like a lost of power as if i let off the gas

[@WJHandyDad]

you sure it's not your transmission slipping?

[@sd33zy313]

WJ Handy Dad idk ive never changed the fluid in it due to others telling me it will damage the tranny. Someone on crownvic.net said its a valve body issue mine is a 07 cvpi

[@WJHandyDad]

There is debate about whether or not you should change the transmission fluid if it's never been changed and it's past due. But of course if you never change it at some point the transmission is going to fail and need to be replaced or rebuilt. Personally I change my fluids "too often" and have been happy with the results.

[@sd33zy313]

WJ Handy Dad I have a brother that had a 03 he said to put the same transmission fluid back in after the filter change it sounds kind of dumb if you ask me

[@blgarage9519]

D33ZY313 I would change it. Drop the pan and change filter and whatever fluid comes out of it. DO NOT FLUSH IT.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I just got a 1998 Ford CV PI sedan, SAP/unmarked version. It says it has 230,000mi. The CV starts but stalls then cuts off 😡🚓 after 10-15min. It makes a sucking, pumping noise after it shuts down. I'm not real aware of Fords or PI type models. I think it could be a bad fuel pump or a bad fuel pump relay. I saw online the issue with the trunk interia switch(red button). The 1998 CV has the red button down. The vehicle shuts off after 10-15min. The fuel tank is full & the car battery is brand new.

[@WJHandyDad]

do a fuel pressure test and see if the fuel pump is working properly. Symptoms of a bad fuel pump usually start out as random stalling of the vehicle, particularly when stopped. You can also do a continuity test on the cutoff switch to see if it's failing. Good luck!

[@alexearnshaw1468]

Would all of your products work in a 1998 ford crown Victoria I think it’s civy model

[@LA_Commander]

The Motorcraft "Gold" coolant is the best stuff. I can get a 1 gallon jug for $19 at my local dealership. About the same price as the Valvoline Zerex Gold coolant. This stuff lasts for 100,000 miles and is designed for these modular V8 engines with the aluminum heads. If you are paying extra for the Motorcraft oil why cheap out on the antifreeze? The MC Gold coolant is really good stuff and is well worth the price and lasts 100k miles. That's the time of 20 oil changes, so it's worth it go get the best stuff for your radiator and engine. Yes, the older green coolant will work, it's just not ideal.

[@WJHandyDad]

the Gold is the Ford spec so that's what you "should" use. I just have had wonderful luck over the years with the Walmart "universal" which used to be green in color but is now yellow

[@LA_Commander]

@@WJHandyDad OK sounds good then, if it works well for you then rock on!

[@F6HemiCharger]

All except P71 an P7B are 80W90 axle lube, but Ford now wants 75W140 in all their axles.

[@melkerekstromer4104]

Can i use mobil 1 instead of motorcraft?

[@WJHandyDad]

I prefer full synthetic so yes

[@sd33zy313]

How can you tell when the cpu in the video goes bad?

[@benitorojas4242]

What power steering should I use in my 07 LX ? Tia

[@WJHandyDad]

Ford changed the recommendation to Mercon V for all vehicles originally spec'd for Mercon, so use Mercon V

[@benitorojas4242]

@@WJHandyDad thank you

[@infinity3jif]

picked up my 05 from the auction a week ago, i noticed the left front is sagging a bit, pull the tire and checked the suspension components, nothing is lose and it handles great for a huge vehicle, i don't know is it normal for it to sag a bit or what?

[@j262byuu]

mostly it's the control arm bushing

[@latoyabutler1904]

No its not normal but u could get suspension knuckles

[@SlikLizrd]

Replace the front shock/coil spring assemblies and have the front-end computer-aligned at a reputable shop , but ONLY if the shop provides a before-and-after "print-out.

[@alexearnshaw1468]

Or could you please do me a list of what products to use on a 1998 FCV

[@WJHandyDad]

I'll have to look that up. I'm not near anything with those specs. Most of them should be same.

[@HarryHov]

Hey wj my 2008 is not starting in the cold, any ideas?? It's just the real cold I'm in Rhode island so it doesnt get too too cold but it got down to 20 and it didnt want to start just turns over

[@WJHandyDad]

water freezing in the fuel lines? Bad ambient air temperature sensor?

[@FrankMCJR]

What are the specs for shocks and brake pads?? I have a 2006 P71

[@WJHandyDad]

rear brakes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/inWQh3-npbppnZI

[@WJHandyDad]

front brakes: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rZ28YaONmt17ars

[@WJHandyDad]

shocks: kzbin.info/www/bejne/hnW3eqB6fZtmadE

[@nellcash875]

Your engine is very clean, how often do you clean it and do you use any cleaning products to do so?

[@WJHandyDad]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZPde4SQerJ4pKc&lc=Ugwyx0MNRu-kBjkKmf14AaABAg&feature=em-comments

[@firstlast8481]

Does this aslo apply for the 2009.

[@WJHandyDad]

someone out there can correct me if I'm wrong, but according to my resources, the 2009 uses Mercon LV in the transmission and Mercon V in the power steering, otherwise everything else should be the same

[@SnownelVEVO]

@@WJHandyDad 2009 changed the oil filter, FL910S instead of FL820S. The FL910S is significantly smaller and the threads are different so they're not interchangable. Of course, Ford had the foresight to change this mid-year so there is no way of knowing for sure without looking - I had a 2009 built in July 2008 that took an FL820S, while I've also seen later 2009s that take an FL910S.

[@mdardy8010]

hey my brake lights are out. hazards head lights tail lights turn signals all work. I put in new brake light switch and cruise control sensor and still nothing. any ideas??? Thanks

[@WJHandyDad]

Cut wire would be my guess... when these are police cars they tap in to the brake wiring to allow the officer to "kill" the brake lights for stealth approaches. The downfitter probably didn't reattach (or properly reattach) the wire. Should be cut somewhere under the dash above the brake pedal.

[@mdardy8010]

i checked around all i saw was an orange wire that wasnt connected on either ends so i took it out. i did notice that the brake light switch connector was tapped because it was red green etc wires coming from harness but shortly before connector all black wires were put in and ran to the connector. i looked at a friends p71 and his were regular colors on his wires so i went to junk yard and took connector from 05 and ran that but still no brake lights

[@WJHandyDad]

You'll need to get under there with a multimeter and see what's going on then.

[@j262byuu]

check the multi-function switch

[@josevasquez7784]

I know what it is. Check your LCM.

[@travisgrover760]

Should I get most of those things from the stealership if I want to use genuine ford stuff?

[@WJHandyDad]

I'm able to find most things in several places such as: car parts stores, Amazon, Wal Mart.

[@SlikLizrd]

Genuine Motorcraft parts can be had MUCH cheaper at Amazon.com and RockAuto.com. The local parts houses charge too much, and the Dealers = YIKES !!

[@jackboot8421]

You asked about wiper blades. I haven't read all the comments, so, sorry if this has been covered, but: Trico Ultra. First thing I did was put these on. $20 a side, worth every nickel. Mine is an '03 P72.

[@WJHandyDad]

I'll have to try those next time I replace wiper blades.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Scotty Kilmer of the KZbin channel suggests car owners use the high end silicone type wiper blades. He says the far out last the regular & top brand auto supply store wiper blade styles. Kilmer says stores avoid carrying these silicone blades because customers would not need to replace wipers 2/3 times a year, 😎🚘🚙🚐. Scotty K also suggests the orange type Rain X brand wiper fluid. He says that's the best brand for windshields & cars-SUVs. Better than .99 or $2.00 blue wiper fluids, 👎🏻

[@ProudQLD]

I'm going to be purchasing a 2006 Ford Crown Victoria P71 Police Interceptor. I'm not sure which oil the car currently has in it. Will it cause me an issue if I use Synthetic blend or should I use something else?

[@WJHandyDad]

5w-20, synthetic or synthetic blend. If price isn't an issue, use full synthetic

[@ewetho]

@@midnightgambler3718 the engine is designed to maintain the pressure required with 5w-20 and utilizes the increased flow of the oil to maintain lubrication needs.

[@mrwright9553]

WJ Handy Dad so I have a 06 too and it has 220k I use MotorCraft Synthetic Blend 5w20. I have a little rattle when I start the car up after it hasn't been running for a couple hours so would it be cool if I move to Mobile one full synthetic 5w30??

[@alexandermilentis2130]

Are suspension opponents any different? Is it basically going to cost the same to maintain or is it any different?

[@WJHandyDad]

there are potentially numerous differences in the suspensions... especially if you start comparing to Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car

[@themiggybear9609]

I have an 03 LX. The air bags went out so I replaced with police vehicle strength coils from summitracing.com for a terrific price. Check them out. I'm not sure about extended measurements but oh my goodness does it feel better lol

[@ewetho]

Different springs, swaybars in front add large one out back too, shocks.... not necessarily more expensive but different.

[@americancopcar]

Are these special tyres you have or recommend? Or are they standard tyres you could buy anywhere?

[@WJHandyDad]

my personal favorites are the Michelin Pilot Sport A/S and the BF Goodrich Comp 2. I do not like either of the factory brand (Goodyear Eagle and Firestone Firehawk)

[@americancopcar]

WJ Handy Dad so the Law Enforcement Agencies use standard tyres then. I’m presuming they don’t have their own special ones like the suspension and break pads?

[@WJHandyDad]

they typically use one of two brands Goodyear Eagle or Firestone Firehawk. Neither of which is as good as the BF Goodrich in my opinion

[@ODIN-yp1rh]

Where I find 4 way fuse 2003 Ford crown Vic interceptor

[@Olby]

Great video. I would like to ask you a question about windshield wipers. I bought original Motorcraft replacement wipers (the same ones I have now) but can't seem to figure out how to take the blades off. I've watched every possible video out there to no avail. I have the J hooks. Everyone says it's as simple as pressing the release tab on the back and pulling them off. The problem is on Crown Vic you can't lift the blades too far off the glass before it hits the hood. Any advice? Perhaps a good suggestion for a video. Thank you so much.

[@WJHandyDad]

I shot a video a while ago and forgot to edit it together and upload... I will be uploading it in a few minutes!!

[@WJHandyDad]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXiUh4iElpKsfNU

[@bannablitz247]

I would NEVER use super tech anything in my own vehicle. That stuff is made as cheaply as possible, with antifreeze there are certain chemicals to prevent corrosion between dissimilar metals as well as raising the boiling temperature different amounts depending on the spec for operating temperature. Also automatic transmissions are quite sensitive and complex mechanisms, while you may not have any problems running very cheap ATF it will likely not have enough detergents and additives to keep your transmission going in the long run.

[@cardinaloflannagancr8929]

The other thing not mentioned is different types of fluids just brands. The yellow is not the same as green or orange and long term gasket issues aren't really known. Mixing them can cause issues if not fully changed over.

[@briandavismurphy]

Do not use anything but G-05 spec. You will cause internal engine corrosion and cooling component damage. Be smart, read your owners manual

[@lifeofthenickels9647]

Where do you live do you wana be my mechanic lol I need door rods aswell

[@aristocraticking702]

Hi WJ Handy Dad. So thankful that you exist. Is there any way you could check my lastest upload titled Front Speaker Wire Cut and provide your insight?

[@WJHandyDad]

I left you a response... you can probably just reconnect the wires.

[@kmorton54]

What are your thoughts upgrading to slotted rotors and ceramic brake pads?

[@WJHandyDad]

I have never used slotted rotors so I can't speak for them. I put upgraded ceramic pads on my P71 - don't notice a difference in the "seat of the pants" but I am planning on doing some time tests to see if there is any difference in the 60-0 time

[@kmorton54]

@@WJHandyDad I just did my brakes using the OEM Motorcraft rotors and semi-metallic pads. I was surprised at the weight of the rotors, talk about "heavy duty"

[@markarrivi3818]

I Had A 1992 looked like a 1994 that did 150 mph

[@juggandfiness9249]

Lol they can barely do 130

[@baird5776mullet]

I'm using 10-30 right now is this ok?

[@WJHandyDad]

Arguably not. Depending on who you ask, the reason for the 5w-20 has to do with clearances inside the engine that don't get lubricated with the heavier 10w-30.

[@SlikLizrd]

The 4.6 liter engine was originally required to run 5-W-30; later changed to 5-W-20. Primary reason for switching to the 5-W-20 was an attempt to meet stiffer fuel mileage standards by lowering the viscosity of the oil at Operating Temperatures, which reduces the resistance of the oil splashing in the crankcase. There is another reason for going with the "lighter" oil, which is that the oil not only lubricates the engine, but also COOLS the engine, and the "lighter" oil cools better by carrying the oil from the overhead cams and valve train back to the crankcase more rapidly. Using 10-W-30 oil in these engines will be of NO BENEFIT, as the thicker oil will NOT perform as well over the long haul. Many believe that "thicker oil lubricates better" -- but that has been proven to be bogus info by the manufacturer AND many millions of miles of fleet, taxi, and police service in the field. Personally, I run 5-W-30 Mobil 1 Extended Performance synthetic and a Motorcraft FL-820S filter, which is a low-cost, sure-fire combination of performance and economy. '95 Grand Marquis -- Walker H-pipe, Magnaflow #18134 glasspacks, Walker tailpipes. Mallory Adjustable Fuel Pressure Regulator @ 35 psi (700 rpms) K&N air filter in stock air box, with "snorkel" removed and air ducted from forward of engine compartment. Quarter-mile = 16.2 secs. @ 88.6 mph

[@ewetho]

The reason for 5w-20 is mileage but also as others stated cooling. The system was designed to run on increased flow at the same pressure of the 5w-20. The extra flow provides for better lubrication. Especially on startup. Do not be afraid of 0W-20 as Ford has started transitioning to this for better lubrication at startup. Even a 70°F 5W-XX oil is very thick compared to operation. So 0W-XX just starts closer to operating viscosity. Going to a 10W-30 would slow oil circulation for extended periods of time at startup and then not have the flow changingncoo-ling dynamics at temp. So it is not wise on both the cold startup and operating ranges. There are now Semi-Syn 0W-20 oil as well as Full Syn that would be an improvement even over factory spec. 5W-20 is a fine choice.

[@sd33zy313]

Ive always thought it was the problem

[@joeaddison4102]

Fsu

[@Chicagoguy1984]

I HATE Fords but just picked up my 5th P71 ;) , AWESOME cars and WELL worth the $$$$ !!! lol

[@StevenSmith-cv9qk]

I hear that brother i couldnt agree more, love my crown vic though

[@KINGVIC87]

Im going to use 10w 40 with Lucas

[@WJHandyDad]

I wouldn't... the 4.6L isn't meant for anything thicker than 5w-20

[@KINGVIC87]

WJ Handy Dad they said its good to use

[@albundy8139]

Do not use 10W-40. Ford specifically said 5W-20 due to tight oil gallery clearances.

[@SlikLizrd]

Definitely NOT a good idea !! Don't do this because: 1.- The thicker oil will take longer to reach the bearings when starting the engine, which is the most critical time for engine wear. 2.- The thicker oil will have increased crankshaft windage, which reduces engine power AND fuel economy. 3.- The thicker oil will not carry heat away from the cams and valve train as quickly as the 5-W-30 or 5-W-20.

[@SlikLizrd]

Tell "them" to f**k off !! Use ONLY the Ford-recommend oil viscosity for the BEST all-around performance for your 4.6 liter engine.

[@SlikLizrd]

There is such a thing as "The Economy of Quality" -- which means that when installing parts and/or fluids, the small investment in better quality is returned over and over in performance and longevity. For example: 1.- "Synthetic Blend" motor oil. Spend the money and get the advantages of FULL Synthetic oils, such as Mobil 1 Extended Performance Oil -- Less than $6.00 per quart at Wal-Mart in the 5-Quart Jug. 2.- Anti-Freeze. Again, spend a bit more and get the Prestone 150,000-mile formula. Avoid the 50/50 pre-mixed stuff. It's cheaper, but harder to work with. And, are you REALLY saving money if half of the jug is WATER !?? 3.- Brake Fluid. The D.O.T. 3 brake fluid has a MUCH LOWER boiling point (absorbs water faster) than the newer, D.O.T. 4 brake fluid. D.O.T. 4 is the preferred choice for high-performance and severe-duty service.

[@orlmagicfan4257]

It's still a Cop chip 😂😂