Ford Falcon Problems

Could be. Try to isolate the problem by swapping components between cylinders and see if the problem follows the component. Swap injectors, spark plugs and leads, one component at a time. Check the compression. It sounds more than a blocked injector.

THE place to start is the ignition system and that's where your mechanics have started, but they perhaps haven't gone far enough. Backfiring is common and experienced mechanics replace the spark plugs, spark plug leads and even ignition coil packs if they are fitted. If the problem is with the coil pack, replacing the leads will improve the problem, but won't solve it. The coil will simply kill the new leads within days and the problem will come back. Replace all three components in the ignition system. If that doesn't fix it, look at the mixer because backfire can damage it.

I HAVEN'T heard of major problems, though I have driven three cars -- two sedans and a BF cab-chassis -- with the e-gas engine and all have been slightly different in the way they drive. The first car, a BA sedan, was quite good with few flaws. The second, a BF sedan, wasn't good at all. It stalled, flamed out, idled roughly and generally wasn't pleasant to drive. The third, a BF II XR6 cab-chassis, fell between the two sedans. It didn't stall and didn't flame out, but it was lethargic on acceleration. The Ford LPG system is old technology, which is why it's so variable. Though Ford will be aghast at this suggestion, I'd buy a regular Falcon ute and have it fitted with a sequential gas-injection dual-fuel system. SGI is better technology.

I HAVE heard Ford is having problems with the cylinder heads on the V8 and has been replacing them on problem cars. It seems it's related to the head on the left bank. I would press your dealer to check with Ford because your car clearly has a problem.

RUNNING on petrol once a month is enough to keep the fuel-system seals and fuel pump from drying out and possibly failing.

UNFORTUNATELY, you have the Falcon ute blues. The one-tonner Ford supplied for me to drive a few months ago had the vibration you complain about, but I think it's from the driveline, not the transmission. The transmission clunk you complain about is common and Ford's fix is to change the transmission. Unfortunately, the clunk usually returns. Many owners have had several transmissions in their Falcons. I don't believe Ford has a fix, it's just the way the cars are, but you can try maintaining your rage.

LPG vehicles emit less greenhouse gas and other pollutants than petrol-powered equivalents. Typically, LPG has about 20 per cent less ozone-forming potential and 10-15 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions.

IF YOU buy the Ford E-Gas option, it will be covered by Ford's factory warranty, so there's no question if you make a claim. If you choose to fit an aftermarket system, you enter a grey area. Ford will not cover anything that has been modified on the car to fit the gas system. That cover has to be provided by the installer. When it comes to a claim you have to rely on the installer to be honest. I'm not a huge fan of the Ford E-Gas system. It's now old technology and there are better ones in the aftermarket, some even from Ford dealers. The newer gas injection systems are much better than the system Ford still uses.

THE LPG wagon shouldn't be $4000 dearer than the regular wagon. It was only $1400 dearer when new and today's values put them at $800-$1000 dearer now as a used car. Keep shopping and try to find a dealer with a more reasonable outlook. Anyone asking a $4000 premium for LPG is trying to make a killing from fear about fuel prices. It certainly wouldn't be worth paying $4000 more for an LPG wagon, it will take too long to recoup the cost. But at a premium of $1000, it would be worthwhile.

I'M NOT aware of after-market smaller wheels and you have to ensure any spare has the correct rating for your car. Latex tyre repair kits sold at auto stores will suffice if you have a puncture.