[akurei]

Just bought a 98 R reg puma with a newly re-built engine. I'm currently working my way to the first 500 mile 'bedding in' service, at which point i have to pay Å“75 + Parts + Vat for the privelege.

but to keep within the terms of the 5 year/60,000 mile guarantee i have to then take the car in every 6 months or 6000 miles (whichever sooner) for servicing at the 'priveleged' cost of Å“90 per time + Parts and VAT.

I am obviously going for the first 500 mile service, just to check everythings ok with the engine, but dubious about the benefits of the 6monthly service.

I would love to keep it up, as the guarantee should be a good selling point etc, but i'm not made of money and i'd be looking at spending at least Å“900+ over the 5 years of the guarantee just on 6 monthly services.

any ideas as to wether this is just a money making policy from the garage? and is it actually worth it. or should i just do my regular yearly service and let the warranty expire?

(its killing me driving at under 50mph and 2500rpm for the first 500 miles - but hope its worth it while engine settles in)

any advice is appreciated as i've come from a rover owning background and am well used to engine troubles and LARGE service costs. Hoping the puma was going to be more economical to run long term.

[pumapilot]

If you want good polite and friendly service, and get your logbook/service record stamped too, for a labour charge half of what Ford will charge you, then click the link under my Signature block.
My Kat goes there now.

[akurei]

cheers guys, was kinda thinking the same thing - still going for the 500 mile checkup, but from then on i'll look at something a litle more local i think.

how strong are these engines as i've heard a few stories about the nikasil (i think) lining wearing away or causing problems?

[akurei]

aaahhh i see......good to know! thanx

don't suppose anyone knows if this first 500 miles run it gently stuff is a load of old guff or gospel? really want to give it a boot to see how she goes but don't want to knacker the engine or do any damage!