The Falcon holds a special place in the hearts of many Kiwis. This Aussie-built workhorse was a common sight on New Zealand roads, embodying a time when large, practical family cars ruled the roads. Locally assembled, the Falcon was rugged and reliable, becoming a symbol of the Kiwi family road trip.
Rust is a major concern, particularly around windows, sills, and lower panels. Front suspension wear and brake fade are also common. Oil leaks are typical as engines age.
WOF tips
Watch closely for rust, especially in the common areas. Brake hoses and cylinders should be inspected for leaks and corrosion. Steering components such as ball joints and the idler arm are prone to wear and must be checked. Be mindful of excessive engine smoke and oil leaks, as these will trigger a WOF failure. Exhaust system condition is also critical.
About the Ford Falcon 188ci
Falcons in NZ were the ultimate family chariot. Whether hauling kids to the beach or tackling long holiday drives, its spacious interior and tough mechanicals made it a practical choice. These Falcons contributed significantly to NZ's automotive landscape through local assembly. They represent a time when owning a large, robust car was the norm, connecting deeply with the Kiwi lifestyle.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots I need to watch out for on my 1969-1970 Ford Falcon in New Zealand?
Given the age and typical Kiwi conditions, rust is a major concern. Pay close attention to areas around the windows, sills, and lower body panels of your 1969-1970 Ford Falcon. Regular inspection and treatment are crucial to prevent serious issues.
What should I pay special attention to during a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check on my 1969-1970 Ford Falcon?
For your 1969-1970 Ford Falcon's WOF, focus on rust in the usual spots (windows, sills, lower panels). The brake hoses and cylinders need a thorough check for leaks and corrosion. Also, steering components like ball joints and the idler arm are prone to wear. Excessive engine smoke or oil leaks, and the exhaust system's condition, will also be scrutinised.
My 1969-1970 Ford Falcon's front suspension feels a bit loose. What are the likely causes?
Front suspension wear is a common issue in these Falcons. Worn ball joints, bushings, and shock absorbers are likely culprits. Given the age of the vehicle, a complete front-end inspection and potential rebuild might be necessary to restore proper handling.
Where can I get brake parts for my 1969-1970 Ford Falcon in NZ?
CARFIX stocks over 420 SKUs for the FORD FALCON 1969–1970, including brake components. You can find BRAKE PADS FRONT, BRAKE PADS REAR, DISC BRAKE ROTOR FRONT and brake hoses to keep your Falcon stopping safely.
My 1969-1970 Ford Falcon is leaking oil. What are the common sources of leaks?
Oil leaks are common in older Falcons as the engine's seals and gaskets age. Typical leak locations include the valve cover gasket, oil pan gasket, and front/rear crankshaft seals. Pinpointing the exact source is the first step to fixing it.
What is the recommended service interval for my 1969-1970 Ford Falcon?
The recommended service interval for your 1969-1970 Ford Falcon is every 5000km. Regular servicing is crucial for keeping it running smoothly, especially given its age.
I'm planning a long road trip in my 1969-1970 Ford Falcon. What should I check before I go?
Before a long trip in your Falcon, ensure the cooling system is in top shape (check hoses, radiator, and coolant level). Inspect the tyres for wear and proper inflation. Check all fluid levels (oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid). Given the common issues, pay special attention to the brakes and suspension.