Ford Falcon Problems

Your recollection is correct, but they weren't released by Ford. Dick says 26 cars were built in Melbourne in 1982 with the help of Jim Faneco. There were two versions, a V8 Falcon XE Grand Prix and a Falcon XE Grand Prix Turbo. Dick has heard that some are being restored and that some out there are immaculate, but he hasn't seen one for a while.

THE EL GT is pretty much unloved by GT enthusiasts who thought it was dressed up, but not to thrill. Old GT fans reckon it's a pretender, but it still has a GT badge and will always be a GT. XR8 Sprints are bringing $9000-$12,000.

I DON'T believe there is an upgrade at the moment. Stephen Brittain is having some success by keeping the pressure on Ford to do something about his car. I can only suggest you do the same. Contact Ford customer assistance and ask them to step in and help the dealer fix the problem.

THANKS for the advice. I'm sure other owners will appreciate knowing there is a problem and that Ford acknowledges it. Unfortunately, carmakers often don't do themselves any favours by either denying there is a problem or being ignorant of the problem's existence and the solution their engineers have developed. It would certainly be better if carmakers came clean and fixed the cars affected instead of hoping owners won't complain.

MY understanding is that the problem is caused by a design fault in the diff itself, so it would not show up when the mechanic checks the codes. Though the problem may be reduced if the auto changes are softened, that doesn't really address the problem. But I am told Ford is at a loss as to how to fix it and the solution has to come from the supplier of the diffs.

FORD'S recommended oil is Mobil Super GF 10W/30 for the XR6 and Mobil Super XHP 15W/40 for the XR6 Turbo, both mineral oils. I would stick with Ford's tip.

I DON'T believe we ever said the AU I is a bad car. What it does have is poor resale value, which makes it a poor buy, and we have said that. We have also criticised its styling, but that's a matter of opinion. You're entitled to yours.

THIS was quite a common fault with the EF Falcon and was supposed to have been fixed with the EL. It was an adjustment problem and Ford issued a service advice with a solution. When the temperature climbed expansion in the locking mechanism sent the locking system haywire. I'd consult your dealer and have them fix the problem, and ask for it to be done at Ford's expense. An auto electrician will know what to do.

FORD'S response was that they investigated a dedicated gas version of Territory. However, it would have required a unique calibration for the AWD versions. Market research at the time told them there wasn't enough customer interest to justify the additional program complexity, especially as the dedicated gas customer base is relatively small. The current price of petrol hasn't changed that situation.

GOOD advice, Tony. I hope Michael can get the same solution. We've heard from many owners of XR6 and XR8 Falcons with the same concern. I'm told it is a problem with the rear axle and there is no fix except maybe to alter the software to soften shifts. I am told Ford was changing rear axles if you complained, but has stopped doing that because it only deferred the problem.