TX5s.... what should I be looking for

[Melz]

Hey all

Have been looking at a couple TX5s as an entry level race car (motorkhanas, sprint days, etc.). Just wondering what I should be looking for in regards to common issues with them, availability of parts and generally what they are like as...well a car!

Cheers
Melz

[galaxy xr8]

My Cousin had one of these, he loved it, a factory Turbo model ? is that right, I don't know to much about them, but I would imagine the usual front wheel drive stuff to look out for would be, the drive shaft's/CV Joint's, ( Do fiqure 8's in a car park and listen for grinding noise's )the typical oil leak around the dizzy (easy and cheap fix though).

[dirty hands]

look for the turbo model
bearings at the front hub are weak std
power steering racks leak
heads are good
timing belt
the mazda 626 and the ford tx5 are the same car with different badges

for racing you can beef them up with larger brake discs etc

[somers181]

I owned the TX5 Ghia four wheel steering 2.5 litre V6 for several years and it was a great handling car and absolute stunner round corners at speed, issues were repairs and spares and when the motor started to show its age it became too expensive to keep, I cant remember why we didnt buy the turbo model.
Also owned a TX3 which had the twin cam 1.8 turbo and it was even better for ride and handling, a great balance............ good luck with your choice.

[Polyal]

Honestly I think your money might be better spent on a TX3, even in n/a form would be better through twisties than a TX5.

They are ok cars, but if going FWD for a track car id be keeping the wheelbase as short as possible.