Hey guys Just purchased a 2004 Lancer ES, had a blown head gasket, I've brought it back to life and so far have done the following with new parts:
Head Valve Job
Head Gasket Kit
Water Pump
Thermostat
Timing Belt& Tensioner
A/C, Alternator, and Power steering belts
Radiator, hoses, and cap
Spark plugs, wires and boot
Air Filter
Battery
4 new continental tires
brakes are good

Changing out the front struts (they're shot) with sensen struts and the transmission oil with castrol atf import ! (7 or 8 quarts?)

This is just my daily driver for school and need it to be reliable, what other things should i change/lookout for?

 

I am not 100% sure on the ATF, but make sure it is compatible, just because it is ATF, doesn't mean it is....

I know the manual fluid needs to meet some diamond standard.....

 

My uncle (20 year mechanic) recommended it. The back says Its for Diamond SP-3 atf Mitsubishi, a few other people on the forum recommended it as well, on other posts i found.

 

ok, sounds good then

 

mitsu parts guy
sp3.....or atf4 from chrysler. dont use global it will eat the clutch packs.

 

Regarding the ATF, I picked up some Beck Arnley branded SPIII at a local Napa for about 7.99 a qt. I did a drain/fill and used little over 4 qts. I've heard ppl had good results with the castrol import ATF. Depends on the current state, service history of the trans really.