CARFIX

Ford Transit 1100 (1965–1971)

The FORD TRANSIT 1100 was a common sight on New Zealand roads throughout the 1960s and '70s, renowned for its role as a dependable workhorse for tradesmen and local businesses. This beloved vehicle is more than just a mode of transport; it has played a pivotal role in the nation's history. In this guide, we provide valuable insights into maintenance practices, common issues, and the key components needed to keep your classic Transit running smoothly for years to come.

Parts for the Ford Transit 1100

Known issues

Owners of the FORD TRANSIT 1100 should be aware of a few common issues:
• Kingpin Wear: Kingpin issues can arise, particularly around the 80,000-120,000 km mark, so regular inspection of the kingpins is recommended.
• Rust: Rust is a common enemy, especially in lower panels and around window frames. Vigilant rust prevention and repair are key to preserving the vehicle.
• Column Shift Linkage Wear: Wear in the column shift linkage can affect gear selection. Keeping an eye on this and addressing any issues early can prevent more significant problems.

WOF tips

When taking your FORD TRANSIT 1100 for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection, be mindful of the following commonly checked areas:
• Corrosion: Pay close attention to corrosion around the windscreen and sills, as this is a common area for failures.
• Kingpin Wear: WOF inspectors pay particular to wheel bearing and kingpin wear.

About the Ford Transit 1100

The FORD TRANSIT 1100, a familiar sight across New Zealand, served as the backbone of countless small businesses. These vans transported valuable goods and services, playing a crucial role in shaping communities. To keep your Transit 1100 in prime condition, regular service and maintenance are essential. Consider the service intervals for critical components and always be on the lookout for common issues.

Maintenance Matters
• Engine Oil: Regular oil changes should be done approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 km.
• Transmission Fluid: Check your transmission fluid every 40,000 km to ensure smooth gear changes.
• Braking System: A vital component; inspect brake pads and rotors regularly. Brake pad replacement can become necessary every 15,000-20,000 km depending on your driving style. Explore our Braking category for essential parts like pads and rotors.
• Suspension: Keep an eye on shocks and struts; they're best replaced every 80,000 km for optimal ride comfort.
• Ignition System: Ensuring your spark plugs are replaced approximately every 30,000 km can help avoid starting issues.
• Cooling System: The cooling system requires special attention, particularly around 150,000 km. Parts such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator should be inspected to prevent overheating issues. Check out our Cooling category for all necessary replacements.

By choosing quality replacement parts and remaining vigilant with maintenance, you can ensure that your FORD TRANSIT 1100 continues to run reliably, just as it did for the generations before you.

Questions owners ask

What are the common WOF failure points for a FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 in New Zealand?
When taking your FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 for a Warrant of Fitness (WOF) inspection in New Zealand, pay close attention to corrosion around the windscreen and sills, as these are common areas for failures. Additionally, WOF inspectors will thoroughly check for wheel bearing and kingpin wear, which can be an issue around the 80,000-120,000 km mark.
How often should I change the engine oil in my FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971?
For your FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971, regular engine oil changes should be performed approximately every 5,000 to 7,500 km to ensure optimal engine health and longevity.
Where can I get replacement brake pads and rotors for my FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 in NZ?
You can find essential braking parts like pads and rotors for your FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 in New Zealand through CARFIX's Braking category. Brake pad replacement may be necessary every 15,000-20,000 km depending on your driving style.
What are the most common issues to look out for with a FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971?
Owners of the FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 should be aware of a few common issues. Kingpin wear can arise, particularly around the 80,000-120,000 km mark. Rust is a frequent problem, especially in lower panels and around window frames. Additionally, wear in the column shift linkage can affect gear selection.
When should I consider replacing the cooling system components on my FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971?
The cooling system of your FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 requires special attention, particularly around 150,000 km. At this point, parts such as the water pump, thermostat, and radiator should be inspected and potentially replaced to prevent overheating issues. CARFIX's Cooling category has all necessary replacements.
How often should I check the transmission fluid in my FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971?
To ensure smooth gear changes and maintain the health of your transmission, you should check the transmission fluid in your FORD TRANSIT 1965–1971 approximately every 40,000 km.