Ford Fairlane Engine Problems

It really needs a mechanic with diagnostic equipment to trace the problem, but it sounds like the whole system is shutting down. I would suspect that it could be a fault with the computer.

You should be getting around 13-14.0 l/100 km in town and 9-10.0 L/ 100 km on a trip, so clearly all is not well. The first thing to do is to ensure the spark plugs, leads, air filter, throttle body are all functioning correctly, and replace them if it's suspected they're not. Have the dealer check the exhaust back pressure, catalytic converter and oxygen sensors to make sure isn't running unduly rich or have a restricted exhaust. Look at your driving conditions, for instance, do you mainly do short runs around Ballarat that might not allow the engine to warm-up properly.

It could be anything from a faulty computer to a sensor malfunction or even a dodgy wiring connector. It's best to get it checked by a dealer as you say you will do.

The consumption does seem to be higher than it should be. Ford's claim when the AUII was launched was 9.0 L/100 km on the highway, 14.5 L/100 km around town with an average of 11 L/100 km. The fuel consumption shown on the trip computer is usually accurate, as it actually measures the fuel being injected into the engine. It's probably time it had a tune, so I would suggest you do that.

Three years is a very long time to put up with a problem like this, which is very dangerous, as you say. The Parnell system is a well-known one that has been widely used over the years, so there shouldn't be any problem with that. It would be worth checking the water flow to the converter, which can "freeze" up if there isn't sufficient hot water flowing through it, but I would also question the competence of the Ford dealer if they couldn't fix a problem like this in three years. You could also phone Parnell LP Gas Systems directly (03 9315 1699) and enlist their assistance. I am sure they would be happy to help get your car running the way it should.

That’s often a sign that the battery has lost its punch, so start by checking the battery condition. Also check the battery terminals and clean them if necessary. If the battery is fine and the terminals are clean you could look at the starter itself.

If it is a cracked head it should be running poorly and you should be able to see evidence, like a milkiness, in the coolant. Check the radiator for leakage, it could have a holed core or a split tank. Check all the connections for the heater etc., check the heater core for leaks.

It won’t be the distributor or the spark plugs. If it happens when you turn the key to the start position to crank the engine it could be the starter solenoid.

You can use regular unleaded or the E10 ethanol blend. Swap meets are good places to find things like owner's manuals, and you could also try e-bay.

Yes, it is. The problem is related to the 5.4-litre three-valve V8 used in the BA and doesn't affect the 5.0-litre V8 in the earlier model.