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davidparker

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  1. Like
    davidparker got a reaction from herb in No Syncro on 1st gear   
    Im not sure on the TC, but many first gears are not synchronized, so in most transmissions a bad clutch will definitely cause a problem with shifting into 1st.  Even with a synchronized gear, a bad clutch will cause undo wear on the other synchronizers and gears.  So I would definitely replace the clutch.  Even if it doesn't fix your first gear, it will still save wear on tear on the transmission and probably delay the expense of a new gear box.
     
    The good news is that you have a manual transmission.   Unlike us here in the US, we can't even get a manual transmission.  So when we lose a gear we are screwed! 
  2. Thanks
    davidparker got a reaction from mountainman in gen2 in winter   
    I hear you, mountainman!  Living in SC, I have the opposite problem.  It gets ridiculously hot here.  But once the inside of my cargo van gets cool, it tends to stay that way.  More so than my previous vehicle (a pickup truck) or my wife's Honda.  I'm guessing that it takes a while to heat or cool that much air, but it can work for you sometimes.  Especially, if I can find some shade to park under. 
     
  3. Cool
    davidparker reacted to Beta Don in Fusion Wheels   
    Bought a set of 2012 Focus wheels (at least I think that's what they came from) on eBay a couple years ago for $400.  Sure look better on my TC than the steelies with vinyl hubcaps

  4. Cool
    davidparker reacted to BobbyP in Side Cameras   
    Hi. here is my set up to deal with the blind spots.
    i have a 2016 xlt. van came with back up sensors and no factory back up camera
    i added to first cameras above the license plate.
    second camera to right rear trim. pictured below.
     

     
    I added a 7" monitor with 2 av channels. av1 is the rear view, which i leave on all the time.
    the picture is better than that. camera not focusing.

    when I want to check my blind spot, right rear I switch to channel av2
     
     
     
     
     

    it really helps when backing out on parking lots. i really don't miss having rear or side windows now.
     
     
  5. Like
    davidparker got a reaction from sKiZo in Yet Another 2011 Connect Conversion   
    Hi SKiZo,  Just a thought here.  With your mobility issues, you may want to put the kitchen IN one of the doors for loading ice and propane.   I think this guys kitchen is pretty slick.   Just a thought. 
     
    This is the first time I noticed you post.  You conversion is really nice!  Good job!  Let us know how the A/C turns out.  
     
     
  6. Thanks
    davidparker reacted to OLDSCHOOLFOOL in 5x110 Wheels on 5x108 Hubs   
    Mr. Parker
    If you REALLY want a set AND you buy into the premise of this thread (some wouldn't) check out these.......not sure if the link will take you straight there. $142 each.
    https://www.autoanything.com/wheels-rims/american-racing-torq-thrust-m-wheels
     
    Part #: AR105M77552A Offset: 45mm Backspacing: 6.02" Max Load: 1600 lbs. Centerbore: 65.10mm Diameter: 17" Width: 7.5" 5 x 110mm Single Bolt Pattern
  7. Cool
    davidparker reacted to dinocarsfast in Can I add OEM Cruise control to vehicle that came without it   
    I got the cruise control to work yesterday.  I did not need to replace anything but the steering wheel and I have a base cluster.  I previously used IDS version 101 and did not have any luck it had some bugs with reading the central configuration in my vehicle or maybe the problem was with vcm clone, idk. But with IDS version 109 it worked better. I was able to read the central configuration and it showed all the features but I still had problems downloading to the vehicle.  after editing it.  
     
    The way that I was able to successfully save the changes was to make the changes in the as-built file and upload that entire file from my computer.  
     
    If anyone would like more detail or I can send the .xml files directly contact me via private message.
     
    I cant wait to drive this more now that I have cruise control and it only cost $60 ?
     

     
     
  8. Like
    davidparker got a reaction from OLDSCHOOLFOOL in 5x110 Wheels on 5x108 Hubs   
    I really want a set of these "old school"  American Racing Torq Thrust, but a over $500 each, I'll have to pass...  
     
    http://www.americanracing.com/wheel/25671/vnb425-torq-thrust-sl
     
  9. Thanks
    davidparker reacted to mountainman in OEM Seat Compatibility   
    I already installed the seats and belts. Was just too lazy to upload the pictures... Here ya go! I guess it's worth noting that there are holes for mounting other seats but only the ones seats were actually installed in were tapped, at least in my vehicle. I believe the bolts required for both the seats and belts were flange M10-1.25 length 20.
     
     



  10. Like
    davidparker got a reaction from BSUPC in Lost Membership Card.   
    BSUPC,  I have been driving a full size Transit with the high roof for work lately.  Not a big fan.  It drives like the old vans.  Nothing like the Connect.  It can haul a lot of stuff and pull a lot of weight, but you definitely know its a heavy duty vehicle.  The standard roof model may be a little bit better, but I suspect it will still feel more "commercial" than the Connect. It uses a lot of gas too.  I think a good test drive will help you decide.
     
    You didn't mention looking at trucks, but I test drove the Tacoma and the Nissan Frontier before I got my Connect.  The Tacoma was way too expensive and the dealers wouldn't even talk pricing.  It was pretty much, here it is, take it or leave.  The Frontier was ok, but just ok.  If a small truck is a possibility you may want to give it a test drive.  
     
    I thought about waiting for the new Ford Ranger, but I liked the Connect enough that it wasn't worth the wait to me.
     
    As the others have said, I thought the Metris was too pricey to even look at.  I didn't want the NV200 with the CVT, primarily because I wanted the ability to tow a small trailer.  I read on the NV200 forum that in addition to the "No warranty" when used for towing, they actually have a problem with a proper supporting structure for a hitch.  On the other hand, it gets good reviews so that may be an option for you if you don't need to tow.
     
    I considered the Ram Promaster City.  But the Chrysler/Renault history concerned me enough that I just couldn't  bring myself to test drive it.  Even though I think things have improved with them and I see quite a few of them on the road.
     
    So in the end, the Connect was the best option for me.  Good luck with your search and let us know what you get.  
     
     
     
  11. Like
    davidparker reacted to mountainman in OEM Seat Compatibility   
    Here are my final notes:
     
    I went to parts.ford.com and punched in my VIN. I found that a lot of seat related parts are compatible within the model generation, BUT the seats themselves are compatible only with certain years within a model generation and only with the corresponding wheelbase. For example, only seats from second generation long wheelbase models manufactured in 2013 and 2014 are compatible with my long wheelbase 2014 TC. Also, different cars have different seat configurations - 60/40, 80/20, two singles - so be sure to look at you vehicles mounting points to ensure you're getting the right configuration. Mine is 60/40.
     
    Hopefully this helps someone down the line.
  12. Like
    davidparker reacted to Beta Don in Replock   
    Google is your friend!  -  I had no idea what a 'replock' was, so i looked it up.  Seems to be a British thing where you repace the key cylinder in the drivers door to make it harder to steal your van.  There are OEM Ford links for the kit and a video of installing one in a Transit  -  Not a Connect, but a Transit
     
    Thankfully I don't live where this is an issue
     
    Don
  13. Like
    davidparker reacted to DonShockley in How to remove rear quarter panels   
    I was looking a my TC again to try to help a guy on FB having problems with his door sticking in the latched open position. That middle piece is definitely the hold open latch. There is a wheel and a couple torx screw heads visible up inside the middle track that match that part very well. So the hex screw must be used to adjust the tension on the roller. Glad I found this info because as you can see I've not gotten much lube there when spraying the tracks. This will be another spot to hit with the better red lube spray I just started using.
     

  14. Thanks
    davidparker got a reaction from zalienz in 2016 XLT TC..front 12 volt receptacle..i would like to turn it 180 degrees.   
    zalienz, just used your instructions for removing the console, thank you!  FTCOne, I will be using you tips on the plug, thank you.  Willygee, I took a look at the panel and it can NOT be rotated.  The spacing on the screw holes is not the same and the contour on the top is lower on the coin side (but not by much).

  15. Thanks
    davidparker got a reaction from Marquizzo in 2018 TC Van LWB XLT First Impressions   
    So, I finally gave into the voices in my head and bought a 2018 TC Van LWB XLT.  I had been driving a 2001 Toyota Tundra 4wd pickup.  But I moved from the Midwest to South Carolina and a black 4WD pickup was not working in a crowed southern city where it gets really hot, rains daily, doesn't snow and has no parking.  Hmm, you probably already are nodding your head.  So here are my first impressions after about 2 weeks.
    PROS:
    - I really like the maneuverability.  Although its the LWB, which I've read is not quite as easy to maneuver as the SWB, this is WAY better than a full size pickup.
    -Talk about room, man this thing is big on the inside.  It makes me feel small driving it.  I already have a lot of stuff in it and still have room.  I think I'm going the like the LWB for that.
    -Very comfortable to drive. OK, it's not a Cadillac, but it is every bit as comfortable and my old pickup. I really like the telescoping steering.  I'm 6ft, and with most vehicles without it, I have to choose between cramped knees or stretched arms.
    -I like the backup camera, but being over 50 I have to put on my reading glass for tight spots.
    -I like the cargo doors.  I know some like the lift gate, but I have had a few hatchbacks and I wanted to try them.  However, I would not get them without the glass.  Even with the glass, it takes a while to get used to the reduced visibility.   I'm used to it now, so I have decided I do prefer the doors.  I like just swinging one open and throwing the stuff in.
    -I like having a roof and locks.  With my pickup, I was always covering up my stuff when it rains (which happens a lot here) and taking it out at night.  Now I just lock the doors!
    -I like the rear sensors.  I wasn't looking for them, but they were on it when I bought it.  And now I really like them.  Already saved me a couple of times, even with the backup camera.
    CONS:
    -No passenger side sliding door window.  So when I was looking for a TC, I wanted the cargo van with both sliding door windows.  The dealer couldn't find one, so I negotiated a lower price on one without them.   I now realize that I'm OK without the drivers side, but I really miss the visibility on the passenger side.  I park in a lot of angled spaces and invariably a SUV parks next to me. Then I have to do the "creep out of the parking space while some numb skull blows the horn at me" maneuver.  Even with a passenger looking for me, it still can be tricky.  And while the backup camera gives me a safe start, in the city they come at you way too fast to pickup on the camera.  I read in this forum that the panel can be replaced with glass (a big thank you to the poster!), so I felt better about my decision.  However, I think I am going try mounting a side view camera.  I will post the results after I do.  If it doesn't work, I will be replacing the panel.  If it does work, I think I'm going to like the added security of the panels.
    -"Fisher Price" kiddie key.  I know some people can't live without remote entry and locking.  I get it.  But I really don't like having the remote ON the key.  Yes I know there is a transponder in there, but it doesn't require a key the size of a tablespoon.  I have ordered a remote less transponder key, but I will be giving up the remote entry for the ability to put the key in my pocket.  It would have been nice to have a separate remote to take when I have a passenger and a simple key when its just me.
    MEH (indifferent):
    -Sync.  So I ended up with the Sync system and I like the Bluetooth connectivity for music.  But the voice command system is marginal.  Some will like it, but I'm not a phone guy so it doesn't do much for me.
    -Blindspot mirrors.  These are the small ones with the convex corner in the upper outsides.  So, yes they help.  But I think I would have preferred the large mirror with the bottom convex section.  I might get the aftermarket add-ons posted about in the forum.  But I'm going to drive it a little longer.  They are getting better, but even so, they are not great.
    -Hardboard panels.  Yes it is a cargo van, so I get the use of hardboard (Masonite to some).  But I will be painting, covering, or replacing them.  I am sure they will look really bad when they get stained.
    -Performance.  I have yet to enjoy the benefits of better gas mileage, but it DEFINITELY is not fast.  (Hmm, on second thought, it might save me a few tickets!)
    -The crap I get from my friends.  Some get it, some don't.  (Happens a lot in my world!)
     
    Overall, I am VERY satisfied with my decision.  I'm really happy to be part of this forum, since it was a big help in making my decision.  I hope this post will help others figure out their purchase
     
     
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