The Ford Falcon 250ci has remained a beloved staple on New Zealand roads since the late 1970s. Merging classic styling with dependable performance, its 250 cubic inch engine strikes an impressively efficient balance, empowering families while making every journey memorable. For current owners and aficionados, understanding maintenance and care is essential to keeping this timeless beauty on the road.
Common issues with the Ford Falcon 250ci include rust, especially in the lower sills, oil leaks from the rear main seal, and weak factory suspension that can struggle under load. These issues often become apparent between 150,000 and 250,000 km.
WOF tips
When taking your Falcon 250ci for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of potential rust issues in the lower sills and doglegs. Also, ensure that the ball joints are in good condition, as worn ball joints are a common WOF failure point.
About the Ford Falcon 250ci
To maintain your Falcon 250ci's performance, regular servicing is essential. Keep an eye on your oil and filter, changing them every 10,000 km as recommended. Don't forget to inspect hoses, belts, and fluids for wear and potential leaks. Items like spark plugs and wiper blades are also critical to keep your ride smooth and safe.
Common areas of concern include the cooling system, which requires a keen eye around the 150,000 km mark. Be sure to check crucial components such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses for any signs of aging. This provides a great link to our dedicated Cooling category, where you can find all the necessary parts.
Additionally, watch for rust especially in the lower body panels, which can be a common issue for any vintage car. Addressing leaks at the rear main seal is also vital as your engine ages. Suspension problems may arise, particularly if the factory setup feels too soft, especially under load. If your braking system is due for an upgrade, our Braking category offers the essential pads and rotors to restore your Falcon’s stopping power. Finally, ensure proper air filtration by replacing air and oil filters regularly, which can be easily sourced in our Filtration section.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots to look out for on a 1976-1979 Ford Falcon in New Zealand?
For your 1976-1979 Ford Falcon, particularly the 250ci model, common rust areas include the lower body panels, especially the lower sills and doglegs. These are critical areas to inspect, particularly before a WOF.
What maintenance should I do regularly for my 1976-1979 Ford Falcon 250ci?
To keep your 1976-1979 Ford Falcon 250ci running well, you should change your oil and oil filter every 10,000 km. Also, regularly inspect hoses, belts, and fluids for wear or leaks. Don't forget to check and replace spark plugs and wiper blades as needed. Proper air filtration is also key, so replace your air filter regularly.
What are the common WOF failure points for a 1976-1979 Ford Falcon in NZ?
When taking your 1976-1979 Ford Falcon 250ci for a WOF in New Zealand, pay close attention to rust in the lower sills and doglegs. Worn ball joints are also a very common WOF failure point for this model, so ensure they are in good condition.
Where can I get replacement braking components for my 1976-1979 Ford Falcon in NZ?
CARFIX stocks a wide range of braking components for your 1976-1979 Ford Falcon. You can find essential pads and rotors in our dedicated Braking category to restore your Falcon’s stopping power.
What should I check on the cooling system of my 1976-1979 Ford Falcon 250ci, especially around 150,000 km?
Around the 150,000 km mark, the cooling system of your 1976-1979 Ford Falcon 250ci requires a keen eye. Be sure to check crucial components such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator hoses for any signs of aging or wear. You can find all necessary parts in our Cooling category.
My 1976-1979 Ford Falcon's suspension feels soft, especially when carrying a load. What could be the issue?
Weak factory suspension that struggles under load is a common issue with the 1976-1979 Ford Falcon, particularly if the factory setup feels too soft. This often becomes more apparent between 150,000 and 250,000 km.