The Ford Falcon 250ci was a beloved workhorse in New Zealand, cherished for its durability and spacious interior. With its inline-six engine, this model has powered a myriad of family cars and taxis, becoming a staple on our roads. For enthusiastic owners and collectors, understanding its unique characteristics and maintenance needs is vital to keeping this classic vehicle in prime condition.
Falcon 250ci owners often encounter certain common problems:
• Rust: Keep an eye out for rust, particularly in the lower door panels. Early detection can prevent extensive damage. Rust around the windscreen and rear window require vigilance.
• Exhaust Manifold Cracks: Cracked exhaust manifolds are a known issue. Listen for exhaust leaks and inspect the manifold regularly.
• Front Suspension Wear: Due to the age of these vehicles, wear in front suspension components is common. Look for signs like excessive play in the front suspension and consider replacement if needed.
When preparing your Ford Falcon 250ci for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF), pay close attention to these common watch points:
• Rust: Examiners will closely inspect for rust, especially around the windscreen and rear window areas.
• Steering Play: Excessive play in the steering system is a common cause for WOF failure. Ensure your steering is tight and responsive.
For Falcon 250ci owners, staying ahead of common issues and performing proactive maintenance is key to ensuring your beloved vehicle remains on the road. Start by paying close attention to the Front Suspension, where components such as the WHEEL BEARING KIT, SUSPENSION ENHANCEMENT BUSH KIT, and BALL JOINTS may wear out over time. Replacing these parts can significantly improve your ride.
Keep an eye on Engine Components as well; parts like the ALTERNATOR, IGNITION MODULE, and DISTRIBUTOR CAP should be replaced periodically to avoid unexpected breakdowns. It's recommended to conduct inspections around every 60,000 km for these parts.
Also vital is your Steering System. Regular checks on the POWER STEERING PUMP and FLUID levels are advisable to ensure smooth navigation. Looking at the Drivetrain, the CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER and OIL SEAL CRANK SHAFT REAR may need attention over time, especially if you notice shifts becoming rough.
Braking performance is crucial, so regularly inspect your BRAKE DRUM REAR components for safety and efficiency. Don't forget about your Cooling System, which requires special attention around 150,000 km; ensure the WATER PUMP, THERMOSTAT, and RADIATOR HOSES are inspected to maintain optimal performance. [This naturally links to /shop/cooling]
Lastly, maintaining the chassis requires vigilance - replace STRUT BONNET and SUSPENSION BUSH FRONT SHOCK ABSORBER components as needed to ensure comfort and safety during every drive.