The Ford Falcon 250ci reigned as a staple on New Zealand roads, known for its fantastic reliability and spaciousness. This guide serves as a valuable resource for Falcon owners looking to keep their cherished ride running smoothly, offering insights into common issues, maintenance tips, and vital Warrant of Fitness (WOF) check points to preserve its legacy.
Falcon 250ci owners often experience certain common issues, particularly as the vehicles age. Be aware of the following:
• Rust: Falcons are prone to rust, especially in the lower body panels, sills, around the windscreen, and rear window. Regular inspections and rust prevention measures are advisable.
• Transmission Wear: If your Falcon has the BorgWarner 35 automatic transmission, be prepared for potential wear issues, especially after significant mileage.
• Oil Leaks: Engine seals can become brittle over time, leading to oil leaks. Regularly check for any signs of leaks and address them promptly.
• Suspension Wear: Due to their age and potential heavy use, suspension components, especially ball joints, are prone to wear and will need inspecting regularly.
When taking your Falcon 250ci for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, pay particular attention to the following points:
• Rust: Inspectors will carefully check for rust around the windscreen, rear window, and in other common rust-prone areas.
• Suspension: Worn suspension components, particularly ball joints, are a common cause of WOF failures. Ensure these are in good condition.
The Ford Falcon 250ci quickly became a go-to vehicle for New Zealand families and businesses alike, lauded for its practicality and dependable nature. To ensure your Falcon remains on the road, regular maintenance checks are crucial. Pay particular attention to the automatic transmission fluid and power steering fluid; these should be changed at least every 30,000km to keep everything running smoothly. The thermostat housing gasket could also require replacement over time, especially as your vehicle ages.
Suspension & Steering: Being a vehicle from the 1970s, it’s imperative to inspect the Falcon's suspension and steering systems. Regular checks on components like leaf spring shackles, leaf spring bushes, front lower ball joints, tie rods, and wheel bearings are essential to maintain safety and performance. A camber bolt kit may be necessary for ensuring proper wheel alignment, along with inspections on the steering box seat and front control arm lower bushes every 50,000km.
Cooling System: Don’t overlook the cooling system, as keeping it in peak condition is vital. Around the 150,000km mark, parts like the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses should be inspected. Staying proactive will help avoid overheating issues that could lead to more serious damage down the line. [This naturally links to /shop/cooling]
Braking & Filtration: Regular brake inspections and services are a must—brake pads, rotors, and fluid should be checked at least every 20,000km, especially given the Falcon's vintage design. Furthermore, oil, air, and fuel filters should be replaced as part of your engine maintenance routine, typically every 10,000km. [Explore our /shop/filtration] options for the best filters tailored for your Falcon. You can also ensure smooth stopping power by looking into our brake service packs, including front and rear brake maintenance services available at your local workshop.