This Aussie family car was a popular choice for New Zealand families seeking a practical and reliable vehicle. Offering more space and power than smaller alternatives, it became a common sight on Kiwi roads, embodying affordable family motoring.
Rust is a major concern with these vehicles, affecting floors, sills, doors, and the boot floor. The mechanical fuel pump is prone to failure, and fuel economy can be poor, especially with larger engines. Overheating can occur if the cooling system is not maintained, and brake fade is possible if the brakes are neglected.
WOF tips
Key WOF watchpoints include rust in the floors, sills, lower doors, and boot floor. Thoroughly inspect the brake condition, paying attention to hoses and wheel cylinders. Check for worn steering and suspension components, such as ball joints and bushes. Examine the exhaust system for leaks and corrosion, and look for any engine leaks.
About the Ford Falcon GT HO Phase 2
A tough Aussie bred car, this vehicle was practical and easy to repair, making it a hit with Kiwi families who valued reliability and affordability.
New Zealand Cultural Significance: This car represents the era of affordable family motoring. Seen in numerous period photos of NZ families and road trips, it symbolizes a time when car ownership was becoming increasingly accessible to middle-class families, enabling them to explore the country and connect with loved ones.
Questions owners ask
What are the common rust spots I should check on my 1970 Ford Falcon in New Zealand?
Given the age and typical Kiwi conditions, rust is a major concern. Focus on the floors, sills, lower doors, and the boot floor. Regular inspection and treatment are crucial to prevent serious structural issues.
My 1970 Ford Falcon is overheating. What could be the cause?
Overheating in the 1970 Ford Falcon is often due to a poorly maintained cooling system. Check the radiator for blockages, inspect the hoses for leaks or collapse, and ensure the thermostat is functioning correctly. A faulty water pump could also be the culprit. Regular coolant flushes are essential.
What are the key things a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspector will look for on my 1970 Ford Falcon?
Expect a thorough inspection for rust, especially in the floors, sills, lower doors, and boot floor. Brake condition is critical, so hoses and wheel cylinders will be checked carefully. Steering and suspension components like ball joints and bushes will also be scrutinised. Exhaust leaks and engine leaks are other common WOF failure points.
Where can I get parts like brake hoses or a fuel pump for my 1970 Ford Falcon in NZ?
CARFIX stocks over 600 SKUs for the Ford Falcon 1970–1970. You can find brake hoses, mechanical fuel pumps, and other essential parts on the CARFIX website or at your local CARFIX store. Search by vehicle year and model to ensure compatibility.
What's the recommended service interval for my 1970 Ford Falcon?
The recommended service interval for the 1970 Ford Falcon is every 5000km. Regular servicing helps maintain its reliability and prevents small issues from becoming major problems, especially given its age.
My 1970 Ford Falcon's fuel economy is terrible. Is this normal?
Poor fuel economy is a common complaint, especially with larger engines in the 1970 Ford Falcon. Ensure the engine is properly tuned, the air filter is clean, and the tyres are correctly inflated. A worn mechanical fuel pump can also contribute to poor fuel consumption.
What are some common brake issues with the 1970 Ford Falcon?
Brake fade is a potential issue if the brakes are neglected. Regularly inspect and replace brake pads and shoes as needed. Check the brake hoses for cracks or leaks, and ensure the wheel cylinders are functioning correctly. Given the age of the vehicle, consider upgrading to modern brake components for improved safety.