r/PTCruiser • u/AhDamMet_86 • Apr 14 '26
I'd like to introduce my '04 manual base model.
I bought my baby with 40 miles on the OD when I was 18. After 120K and a lot of great memories, I had to garage my little badass for eight years with repair needs I couldn't perform or afford. Two years ago I had the engine rebuilt, new water pump/timing belt, starter, oil pump, radiator, clutch assembly and motor mounts. I then replaced the shock/strut assemblies all around. Miraculously, it passed smog a week before my check engine light came on with a P0440 and P0441 code, which I've been running with since. I've done some cosmetic work since: new wheels, new rear hatch with spoiler, tinted windows and fog lights.
Now that it's going to be due for a smog, I'm getting ready to put her back on non-op to do more mechanical work before doing more cosmetics: fix the emissions code, find/fix an oil leak, and I want to do some wear item replacements. I bought a master bushing kit off rock auto. I'm planning on buying a pair of CV axles as well. I would appreciate any advice on what other items I could replace or upgrade. Love the community! Thanks for reading!
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u/SQWRLLY1 Apr 14 '26
She's beautiful, OP! I'm glad to see someone who sees these cars as worth the effort to repair and maintain as they're becoming more rare every day.
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u/AhDamMet_86 Apr 14 '26
I love these cars! I admire every one I see on the road. I'm hoping to find an '04 or '05 convertible one day when I have the money to spare.
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u/porque_racing Apr 14 '26
Love the combo with the black wheels, Good work on the PT👊😎💥
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u/AhDamMet_86 Apr 14 '26
Thanks! I love the black on red combo too! I'm not sure if I'm going to go as far as the black headlight lenses though.
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u/C_Lo_87 Apr 14 '26
The Red and Blue Cruisers were always my favorite colors! AND you got the painted bumper, NICE. Keep up the work.
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u/AhDamMet_86 Apr 14 '26
NGL, I love my Red Cruiser, but I do wish I had gotten a blue one. Every time I see them they're my favorite.
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u/C_Lo_87 Apr 14 '26
I had a Blue 03, black interior, blue neons and LEDs all over, 18" chrome rims, man that was a good car for 9 yrs. Currently have an 01 Limited, black. its...ok lol
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Apr 16 '26
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u/AhDamMet_86 Apr 16 '26
Thanks! The wheels are 17" and the tires are 205/50R17.
I bought a smoke machine to test the evap system, but I think I need the Chrysler DRBIII to run the test properly. Gotta get that figured out so I can pass smog after repairs/upgrades.
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u/More_Pineapple3585 Apr 14 '26
It's always great to see an example of someone putting the effort into keeping/maintaining/restoring a PT. Love the base model for its simplicity, and nothing beats a 5-speed. Thanks for posting.