2013 Ford Shelby Gt500 Convertible – Mastering The 662-Hp Open-Air
The 2013 Ford Shelby GT500 convertible is a high-performance masterpiece featuring a supercharged 5.8L V8 engine and a reinforced chassis. This guide provides expert insights into maintaining its 662 horsepower, troubleshooting common issues, and preserving its value as a modern classic.
You finally have the keys to a legend. Owning a 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible means you control the most powerful factory Mustang of its era, offering a raw, visceral driving experience. However, managing 662 horsepower in a drop-top requires more than just a heavy right foot; it demands specialized maintenance and care.
In this guide, I will show you how to keep this beast running at peak performance while addressing the unique needs of the convertible platform. We will cover everything from the supercharged Trinity engine to the nuances of the Tremec transmission and the convertible top mechanism.
Whether you are a weekend cruiser or a DIY mechanic, these insights will help you preserve the reliability and explosive power of your Shelby. Let’s dive into the technical details that make this car a world-class performer.
Understanding the 5.8L Supercharged Trinity Engine
The heart of this car is the 5.8L “Trinity” V8 engine. It was a massive leap forward from the previous 5.4L units, featuring a larger Eaton TVS 2300 supercharger. This blower pushes 14 psi of boost, requiring a robust fuel system and cooling infrastructure.
One unique feature of this engine is the plasma-transferred wire arc (PTWA) cylinder liners. This technology replaces traditional heavy iron sleeves with a thin, high-strength coating. It reduces weight and improves heat transfer, but it also means you must be extremely careful with engine temperatures.
Always monitor your oil pressure and cylinder head temperatures (CHT). The Trinity engine is a masterpiece of engineering, but it generates incredible heat. Ensuring your intercooler pump is functioning correctly is the first step in preventing heat soak and power loss.
The Importance of the Intercooler System
The supercharger relies on a dedicated liquid-to-air intercooler system. If the intercooler pump fails, your intake air temperatures (IATs) will skyrocket. This causes the ECU to pull timing, significantly reducing your horsepower output.
Check the intercooler reservoir located at the front of the engine bay. With the engine running, you should see the coolant swirling. If the fluid is stagnant, your pump may be dead or the intercooler relay might have blown.
Upgrading to a high-capacity heat exchanger is a common mod for these cars. It helps maintain consistent power during spirited drives or track days. A larger reservoir also adds more fluid volume to the system, slowing down the heat-soak process.
Essential Maintenance for the 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible
Maintaining a 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible requires strict adherence to high-performance service intervals. You cannot treat this like a standard Mustang GT. The components are under significantly more stress due to the torque levels and engine heat.
Your primary focus should be the oil. This engine requires 5W-50 full synthetic oil. This specific weight provides the necessary protection for the forged internals and the high-rpm valvetrain. Never substitute this for a lower-weight oil, as it could lead to premature engine wear.
I recommend changing the oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, or at least once a year. Even if you don’t hit the mileage, oil breaks down over time. Always use a high-quality Motorcraft FL-820-S filter or a reputable performance equivalent to ensure proper flow rates.
Transmission and Drivetrain Care
The Tremec TR-6060 6-speed manual transmission is built to handle the torque, but it needs clean fluid. Over time, the syncros can wear, leading to “notchy” shifting. Replacing the factory fluid with a high-quality synthetic ATF can improve shift feel significantly.
Check your rear differential fluid as well. The 2013 model comes with a Torsen limited-slip differential if equipped with the Performance Package. It requires 75W-140 gear oil and a friction modifier to operate quietly and effectively during tight turns.
Inspect the carbon fiber driveshaft for any signs of cracks or damage. While extremely strong and light, it is sensitive to impacts. If you feel a vibration at high speeds, have the driveshaft and universal joints inspected by a professional immediately.
Managing the Convertible Top and Chassis Rigidity
The 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible faces a challenge that the coupe does not: structural rigidity. Ford added extra bracing to the underside of the car to compensate for the missing roof. However, the chassis can still flex under the massive 631 lb-ft of torque.
Inspect the convertible top material for wear marks or thinning. The hydraulic cylinders that power the top can eventually leak. Check the fluid level in the pump reservoir, usually located behind the rear seat or in the trunk area, if the top operates slowly.
Keep the weather stripping lubricated with a silicone-based protectant. This prevents the rubber from drying out and cracking, which leads to annoying wind noise and water leaks. A well-maintained seal also helps the top settle into place more securely.
Enhancing Handling with Suspension Tweaks
If your car has the SVT Performance Package, it features Bilstein electronic adjustable dampers. You can toggle between “Normal” and “Sport” modes. Ensure the wiring harnesses connected to the top of the struts are secure and free of corrosion.
Because this is a heavy car, the bushings take a beating. Inspect the control arm bushings and sway bar end links for play. Upgrading to polyurethane bushings can sharpen the steering response, though it may increase road noise slightly.
Check your alignment annually. With this much power going to the rear wheels, a proper alignment is critical for traction. Even a slight toe-out condition can make the car feel “darty” and unstable under hard acceleration.
Common Problems and Troubleshooting Tips
Every high-performance car has its quirks. In the 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible, one common complaint is clutch shudder. This often happens when the clutch gets hot in stop-and-go traffic. It is usually a sign of the twin-disc clutch material reacting to heat.
Another issue is the “clunk” from the rear end. This is often the upper control arm bushing wearing out. Replacing the factory rubber bushing with a spherical bearing or a heavy-duty unit can eliminate the noise and improve traction by reducing axle hop.
The battery is also a frequent culprit for electrical gremlins. These cars have high electrical demands. If your battery is more than three years old, replace it. A weak battery can cause erratic sensor readings and even “Check Suspension” warnings on the dash.
Braking System Maintenance
Stopping 3,800 pounds of Mustang requires serious hardware. The front Brembo 6-piston calipers and 15-inch rotors are incredibly effective but generate a lot of brake dust. Use a dedicated wheel cleaner that is safe for the painted finish of your Shelby wheels.
Flush your brake fluid every two years. Brake fluid is hygroscopic, meaning it absorbs moisture over time. This lowers the boiling point, which can lead to a spongy pedal during aggressive driving. Use a high-quality DOT 4 fluid for better heat resistance.
Inspect the brake pads for even wear. If the inner pads are wearing faster than the outer ones, your caliper slide pins may need cleaning and lubrication. High-performance pads like those from Hawk or EBC can offer better bite if you find the stock pads lacking.
Performance Modifications for Enthusiasts
For many owners, 662 horsepower is just the starting point. The Trinity engine responds exceptionally well to basic modifications. A smaller supercharger pulley combined with a professional tune can easily push the car past the 750-horsepower mark.
However, you must upgrade your cooling system to match the increased boost. A high-flow intercooler pump and a larger heat exchanger are mandatory. Without them, the ECU will simply pull timing, and you won’t see the real-world gains on the street.
Cold air intakes are another popular choice. The factory airbox is decent, but an open-element filter allows the supercharger to “breathe” better and makes that iconic supercharger whine much louder. Just ensure the intake is shielded from engine heat.
Tuning and Fuel Requirements
If you modify the air intake or pulley, you MUST get a custom tune. The 2013 Shelby uses a sophisticated mass air flow (MAF) sensor system. Running the car lean under boost is a recipe for engine failure. Always use 93-octane fuel from a reputable station.
Some owners switch to E85 fuel for its cooling properties and high octane rating. This requires a larger fuel pump and bigger injectors. While the power gains are massive, E85 is corrosive to some rubber components, so ensure your fuel system is E85-compatible.
Always keep a handheld tuner in the car to monitor data logs. Checking your “Long Term Fuel Trims” can tell you if the engine is running correctly before a small issue becomes a major repair bill. Knowledge is power when it comes to high-boost V8s.
Buying and Inspecting a 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible
If you are in the market for a 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible, documentation is everything. Look for a car with a complete service history. These cars are often “garage queens,” but sitting for long periods can lead to dried-out seals and flat-spotted tires.
Check the underside for “scraping” on the front splitter. The Shelby sits very low, and the front fascia is expensive to replace. Also, inspect the rear tires. If they are bald while the fronts are new, the car has likely seen a lot of burnouts or track time.
Ask if the airbag recalls have been performed. Like many Fords of this era, the Shelby was affected by the Takata airbag recall. Ensure the VIN is clear of any open recalls by checking the official NHTSA website before finalizing your purchase.
Verifying Authenticity
Every true Shelby has a unique VIN and an SVT certificate of authenticity. You can contact Ford Performance to verify the build number and original options. This is crucial for resale value, as collectors want documented, unmodified examples.
Look for the signature of the engine builder on the small plaque located on the passenger-side valve cover. This is a hallmark of the hand-assembled Trinity engines. If the plaque is missing, ask the owner why, as it could indicate a previous engine replacement.
Check the paint code on the door jamb. Some colors, like Deep Impact Blue or Sterling Gray, are highly sought after. Ensure the stripes are factory-applied (either tape or painted, depending on the option) and not added later by a third party.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible
What is the top speed of the 2013 Shelby GT500?
While the coupe was famously marketed as a 200-mph car, the 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible is electronically limited to 155 mph. This limitation is primarily due to the aerodynamic lift and structural considerations of the soft-top roof at extreme speeds.
Does the 2013 GT500 have launch control?
Yes, it features a sophisticated launch control system that allows you to set the desired RPM for takeoff. This helps manage the massive torque and prevents excessive wheel spin, making it easier to achieve consistent 0-60 mph times in the mid-3-second range.
How often should I change the supercharger oil?
Ford technically lists the supercharger oil as “lifetime,” but most enthusiasts recommend changing it every 50,000 miles. The oil can break down due to the high heat of the blower. Use only the specific AC Delco or Motorcraft supercharger oil designed for Eaton units.
Is the 2013 Shelby GT500 a daily driver?
While it is capable of daily driving, the heavy clutch and stiff suspension can be taxing in heavy traffic. However, the trunk space is decent for a convertible, and the Sync infotainment system provides modern conveniences like Bluetooth and navigation.
Final Thoughts on the 2013 Shelby GT500
Owning a 2013 ford shelby gt500 convertible is about more than just speed; it is about owning a piece of automotive history. It represents the pinnacle of the live-axle Mustang and the final years of Carroll Shelby’s direct influence on the brand.
By following a strict maintenance schedule, monitoring your engine vitals, and caring for the convertible top, you can enjoy this 662-horsepower beast for decades. Remember to always respect the power, as this car can be unforgiving to the unprepared driver.
Stay safe, keep the rubber side down, and enjoy the incredible sound of that supercharged V8 with the top down! Your Shelby is a rare breed, so treat it with the respect it deserves.
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