So I'm looking at either getting a '97 or '98 base model Mark VIII. I remember hearing something about a difference in the tranny, or something like that.. I think. So what are the differences that I should be aware of?

I'll also hopefully be testing a '98 base Mark VIII on Saturday, with 96k miles on it, what are things I should look for?

Thanks

In '98, I believe a lot of stuff was fixed in the 4r70w. One item in particular is the notorious 1-2 accumulator spring. Not sure what else, though. When I went fishing for a new tranny to put in my '93, it was pretty unanimously advised to get a '98 or newer.

I think '98 didn't inlude the beauty cover over the alternator. The tranny is the same but later in '97 they did an upgrade to the springs I believe, which carried over into '98.

What to look for, most important I would suggest the neon light and blend door (check to see if the heat works, if it does, switch it to AC and see if it gets cold)

Oh ok, thanks. Are there any mechanical things I should check for?

nothing out of the ordinary, these cars are pretty sound when it comes to the engine. You'll be able to tell that kind of stuff from driving it but there are plenty of people around here driving with up towards 200K miles and more.

The 98 (or mif 97, not sure) trans is better. Updated stuff. I would not base getting a Mark solely on the trans. If you find a sharp 97 better than any 98, go for it. You can "fix" the 97 trans just fine.

But if you already own a Mark VIII and need to replace the trans most suggest finding a 98 trans since the entire thign is being replaced anyway.

I think '98 didn't inlude the beauty cover over the alternator.

While this is technically true, you may find a 97-98 Mark VIII WITH the alternator beauty cover. It was a delaer installed option. In other words, it was up to the dealer selling the car whether or not they installed it.

I have one on my 98.

'98 models have the mechanical diode one way clutch in the transmission; it's the one to get.

You can get a mechanical diode clutch for about $250 from Art Carr but yea go for a 98 if you can find one.

It was a delaer installed option. I have one on my 98.

Really! I did not know that! I thought it was Lincoln penny pinching on parts so they got rid of it!:cool:

It was a dealer installed option.

Really! I did not know that! I thought it was Lincoln penny pinching on parts so they got rid of it!

I hear the cover was good for 10 hp on the 97 motor:D . Kind of like a sticker on the quarterpanel.

I hear the cover was good for 10 hp on the 97 motor:D . Kind of like a sticker on the quarterpanel.

damn it! I knew my car seemed slower when I took it off! :p

I never liked the intech alternator cover...

It good for 15HP, people! Dyno proven! :lol: