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Just wanted to introduce myself! I recently bought a new-to-me 2004 Civic Sedan, 160k miles. It's not in the best shape, but I haggled for a good deal. The car is going to be my daily driver, but also a pet project since it needs a good amount of work to keep her running. First on my list and are new engine/tranny mounts, and I believe the input shaft bearing is going bad. I'll probably tackle all the bearings while I'm in there. There is also a rear brake squeak that's driving me insane, but I haven't had the time to track it down lately...

Along with the Civic, I have a 2013 F-150 FX4 5.0L that I ordered new from the factory. I've been active on the F-150 forums for the last 3 or 4 years, and have gotten most of my maintenance and performance tips from there.

I'm an engineer by trade, so I tend to nerd over stuff like that. I don't work in the automotive industry, but I've been studying engine design on my own for the past few years. If there are any automotive engineers here that can recommend a good design book, I'm always looking for something else to read on the subject. I've also started to dive into the world of electronic engine management systems, and have a fairly strong background in instrumentation and control. Outside of my day job, I design and build custom tooling/fixturing for small businesses in the area. I've also recently gotten into some custom fabrication for the local F-150 crowd, and do the same for my own. I also build trailered waterfowl blinds to feed my duck hunting addiction.

I'm sure I'll learn a lot in the coming months, and hopefully be able to contribute something useful to the forums once I start tearing into the Civic.

 
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Welcome to the forum!

 
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Welcome! I was in a similar situation a few months ago. In July I purchased a 2005 Civic Sedan with 130k miles on it. Over the past six months I've put about $2.5k into it--some mechanical, some cosmetic. I've taken it on several two and three-day road trips up to 1100 mi RT with no issues. Currently my daily driver...

I just traded my 2005 Ranger FX4 in for a 2017 Explorer--not as capable or fun but better and safer for my toddler.

 
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Welcome!

Rear shoes squeak every time you pump the pedal, the contact pads on the backing plate need a little grease...I use moly on those

 
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I'm may try and clean up the civic a bit. I'm not too worried about cosmetics. There is some surface rust that I was going to sand and touch up to keep it at bay, but I may take the opportunity to practice some basic bodywork and painting.

I'm trying hard not to buy the new Ranger! That thing will be a beast with the Ecoboost in it. I'm a huge truck fan and do a decent amount of towing and light off-roading, so I get my use out of them.