Owner 2008 Focus 1.8 TDCI Estate

Bought 2 years ago with 48k miles. Driven Fords before, but first time Ford owner. I bought this to be my carthorse car for the next decade, and learn a few skills. Later I may look for a Fast-er Ford, probably petrol, of similar vintage to partner it.

The 1.8 TDCI engine is a bit gruff, but performs well, never had any issue. I have grown to like its 'agricultural' soundtrack though pick up is hesitant which less welcome. Will put in some sound insulation as the cabin can be noisy, subject to road surface.

Until recently, had only done oil changes, all the filters including fuel filter, also MAP, MAP pipe, MAF, wipers. New keys and fob code set. All simple enough if you look though forums, the internet and have a Haynes manual.

The biggest job I have done before this is changing brake pads and discs on a BMW E34.

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With the aim of getting the car fit for the next decade and account for MOT flags (though it passed).

I have installed a new CSC, clutch and flywheel (old clutch looked good, but DMF fused solid), rebuilt (regrease, reboot, repainted) the driveshafts, installed a couple of subframe bushes, repainted the subframe, cleaned all bolts removed of rust, repainted the oil sump.

There were a couple of jobs I was prepared for but left as all seemed in order (rear crank seal, front roll bar bushes)

I will soon put in new front lower control arms, track rod ends and drop links. And also paint the front valance underneath which shows signs of surface rust.

On the to do list:

Next will be upper timing belt and v belt and pulleys and tensioners. Seems my car has a chain for the lower belt judging from the black colour of the tensioner.

Crankshaft pulley and bolt

Later to do (probably next year)

Brake discs, pads and calipers overhaul.

Rear subframe and bush overhaul.

Sound insulation.

De-rust, repaint the cross member.

Touch up some paintwork where tinges of rust are starting.

Hopefully that will give it another decade ...

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I've already had some help from members which appreciated. Will post stuff from time to time.