Meet the Ford Falcon 250ci, a quintessential choice in New Zealand that seamlessly delivers a remarkable mix of power, spaciousness, and reliability. Known for its durability and versatile nature, it served as the family favorite or the dependable workhorse during its prime years. For current owners, understanding both its heritage and maintenance needs is crucial for keeping this classic cruising. With a few proactive steps, you can ensure this stalwart remains a trustworthy and iconic ride for many more adventures to come.
Like many vehicles of its age, the Ford Falcon 250ci has some well-known weak points. Keep an eye out for the following:
• Rust in Lower Body Panels: This is a common issue, particularly around the sills and wheel arches.
• Oil Leaks from Rear Main Seal: This can be a recurring problem, leading to oil consumption and potential engine bay mess.
• Wear in Front Suspension Components: Ball joints, tie rod ends, and control arm bushings can become worn and contribute to steering looseness. Many owners report these issues occuring between 100,000 - 200,000 km.
When taking your Ford Falcon 250ci for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be aware of these common watch points:
• Rust around Windscreen and Sills: Extensive rust in these areas can lead to a WOF failure.
• Steering Play: Excessive play in the steering system will also result in failure. Careful inspection of the steering components is recommended prior to the WOF.
Taking care of your classic Ford Falcon 250ci is essential to maintain its performance and ensure your safety on the road. Regular servicing should be scheduled, including checking and potentially replacing key components like the automatic transmission filter, oil filter, and tie rod ends. Additionally, be mindful of the U-bolts on the rear spring—keeping these in check as part of your routine maintenance will help avoid ride quality issues.
The Falcon’s steering system is another area to watch closely. Should you notice any looseness, steering coupling kits are available that can restore that signature driving precision. Don’t forget to inspect the steering box and pump seals—replacements can easily be sourced from aftermarket suppliers.
Pay attention to rust, especially in the lower body panels and wheel arches that can compromise the integrity of your classic. Regular checks around 100,000 - 200,000 km can reveal these issues early, allowing for timely intervention.
And let’s not ignore the cooling system—around 150,000 km, it's smart to scrutinize the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses to prevent overheating. Staying on top of these aspects not only enhances your driving experience but also protects your investment. For service packs, consider our Cooling System package that includes all necessary components—explore it here. Keeping your alternating current system, brakes, and suspension components in peak condition will ensure your Falcon delivers a smooth ride every time.