1994 Ford Thunderbird Starts Then Dies

FORD THUNDERBIRD
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MDWOGGON
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  • 5 POSTS
Got a 94 Thunderbird 3.8 Supercharged, replaced the head gasket cause it was leaking, wouldn't start afterwards, towed it to the garage, they replaced the MAP sensor other minor stuff and got it started, ran great for 4 days, then died in traffic and hasn't run since...it's starts but dies immediately at best...towed it back to the garage who looked and tried things for 2 weeks before giving up...I towed it to the dealer (which I should have done in the first place), and they diagnosed the catytlic (sp) converters being clogged causing the problem. And estimated replacement at $2600 plus labor, more then the value of the car. We tried the only aftermarket brand listed but it didn't fit...I'm afraid that it's a bit more then the converters and afraid to spend that amount of money not knowing for sure. I'm ready to have the car towed home (4th towing charge :( ) so I can remove the converters and break out the honeycomb and reinstall them just to see if the car runs right...I'm about frustrated with this problem car and wonder if anybody else has suggestions or ideas.
Mar 19, 2006 at 5:06 AM
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PEPPERMRJ
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A test with a vacuum gauge will tell the tale of a plugged cat. Usually they rattle when they go. Unfortunately you head gasket failure could have ruined them. I think you will find many other options less expensive than your dealer price quote.

If your in California your options are limited ( OEM only, new or rebuilt) for a cat by law. All other states have several options. You can find direct fits for around $300 to $400 bucks each. Universals can cost less the $100 each. You would need to have some welding done. Most muffler shops can help. Also don't rule out a junk yard.

Good luck and let us know. :)
Mar 19, 2006 at 7:32 AM
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MDWOGGON
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No...have not ruled out taking the piece of 'you know what' to the junk yard. ;) I'm actually about ready to junk it, with all the troubles I haved with it. :(
Mar 20, 2006 at 1:31 PM
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Suggested Repair

Confirm a plugged catalytic converter with a vacuum gauge before replacing parts. A failed head gasket can damage the converters. Outside California, consider direct-fit converters, lower-cost universal converters that need welding at a muffler shop, or a junkyard unit. California generally requires new or rebuilt OEM converters.

Conversation Summary

A 1994 Ford Thunderbird 3.8 Supercharged would not stay running after a head gasket repair. A shop replaced the MAP sensor and it ran for a few days, then died in traffic and would start and stall immediately. A dealer blamed clogged catalytic converters and quoted an expensive replacement. An expert said a vacuum gauge can confirm a plugged converter, noted the head gasket failure may have ruined them, and suggested cheaper direct-fit, universal, or junkyard options, with OEM limits in California.

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