I just purchased a 1983 convertible and after cleaning away the POUNDS of southern clay and dust from it we took here for a spin. The oil pressure gauge reads normal, BUT, when I reached 50 mph it ran almost high but stayed in the normal perimiters. Suggestions? She has 155,000 miles on her and never rebuilt as far as I know. Also, she takes a couple of times to crank and there is a bit of "play" in the steering wheel. I had an 83 hatchback years ago and I don't remember that being normal.
I'm up for input.
Thanks

 

After 24 years I'm sure the steering parts are on their way out. Check the tie rod ends and all the bushings on the front end, they prolly need replaced, then get an alignment. As for the oil pressure, get an autometer gauge first so you know if the pressure is actually high or if the gauge is just out of whack.

 

On an '83 Mustang the rag joint in the steering shaft is most likely cracked and worn out....replace it with a '87-'93 shaft that has a much better design or spend the money and get a flaming river shaft.

I would be concerned if the oil pressure was low but the first thing to do is either put a gauge on it to see where it really is or replace the sending unit and see if that changes the reading.

 

Thanks, I'm sure I'll have more questions later.
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What a beautiful Super clean Fox Vert!!!! Nice find!!!