The Bedford CF, a ubiquitous light commercial van during its production run, found its way to New Zealand as a versatile workhorse and, later, as a retro campervan. While simple and durable, owning one today requires addressing the issues that come with age and heavy use.
Rust (sills, floors, arches, chassis rails), engine wear (especially for high-mileage examples), transmission problems, brake system issues, suspension wear, and electrical problems (corrosion).
WOF tips
Rust is the primary concern; carefully check structural areas like chassis rails, sills, and floor. Brakes must be in good working order, especially given the van's potential load. Suspension components come under strain and can be worn. Ensure all lights and electrical systems function correctly. Check that seatbelts are in good condition. Make sure the tyres are load rated appropriately for the vehicle.
About the Bedford CF 120 ci
The CF typically came with a range of inline-four petrol or diesel engines, although examples with larger engines do exist. Its simple construction contributed to its reliability. Rust is a major problem, especially in areas prone to moisture. Interior wear is common, especially for ex-commercial vehicles. Parts availability can be mixed; some parts are easy to find, while others require specialist sourcing.
Questions owners ask
What are the most common rust spots to check on a 1969-1973 Bedford CF in New Zealand?
Rust is a significant issue for the Bedford CF. You should thoroughly inspect the sills, floor, wheel arches, and chassis rails, especially in areas prone to moisture. These are common failure points that can affect WOF compliance.
Where can I get replacement brake components for my 1969-1973 Bedford CF in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 88 SKUs for the Bedford CF 1969–1973. You can find essential brake components like brake pads and possibly discs or drums through CARFIX, as brake system issues are common with these vans.
What should I be aware of when getting a WOF for my 1969-1973 Bedford CF?
For a Bedford CF, the primary WOF concern is rust, particularly in structural areas like chassis rails, sills, and the floor. Ensure the brakes are in excellent working order, as they are crucial for a van's potential load. Suspension components should be checked for wear, and all lights and electrical systems must function correctly. Also, verify seatbelts are in good condition and tyres are appropriately load-rated.
What kind of engines were typically fitted to the 1969-1973 Bedford CF?
The Bedford CF typically came with a range of inline-four petrol or diesel engines. While these were common, some examples might feature larger engines.
How often should I service my 1969-1973 Bedford CF?
The recommended service interval for the Bedford CF 1969–1973 is every 5000km. Regular maintenance is crucial, especially considering common issues like engine wear.
Are parts hard to find for a classic Bedford CF in New Zealand?
Parts availability for the Bedford CF can be mixed. Some parts are relatively easy to find, while others, especially more specific or body-related components, may require specialist sourcing. CARFIX does stock 88 SKUs for this model.