Ford Problems

I DON'T know how Ford can say it covers only the front end for 3000km. I wouldn't take that.

The AU was a much-maligned car, mostly for its looks. If you can accept the styling, the AU is a sound car, but readers of this column will have read many readers' letters complaining about their Falcons. I strongly recommend you get it checked by a mechanic.

THE LPG tank is generally mounted under the Territory where the spare wheel is. The spare is then mounted on the side in the back of the cabin. That's no problem for a five-seater, but it does present a problem for a seven-seater. You really need a swing-away spare wheel mounting to hang the spare on the rear. Phone the offroad specialists who might be able to supply you with an appropriate bracket. There shouldn't be any issue with the engine, but be aware Ford doesn't recommend converting its cars and your warranty will be affected.

FORD offered two engines in the BA Fairlane: the 182kW Barra six and the 5.4-litre V8. The E-gas engine wasn't offered, the only reason being Ford didn't believe there was enough demand. The factory E-gas system would fit the Fairlane, but would need the E-gas six as well and I think that would make it too expensive. Ford dealers have dual-fuel kits that would be better and more affordable. Lots of BA Falcon taxis run on LPG with no problems.

CHECK the firewall, specifically the bracket that takes the clutch cable. It is known to break where it is welded to that panel because of flexing of the firewall. Even if it is cracked, the pedal can feel normal and have the correct free play, but because the bracket moves when you depress the pedal, the clutch doesn't throw out enough and will drag when you go to shift gears. If you find the bracket is cracked, a repair kit is available from Ford. It may also be that the clutch is dragging because it is worn.

IF YOU'RE unhappy, keep the pressure on Ford to take some action. They might be able to give you a clutch with more damping to soften clunking, or some other components that will do the trick. I am sure they will know some sort of fix.

YES. Lots of those Fairlanes and similar Falcons have been converted to LPG over the years. But it's vital to ensure you find an experienced converter.

SOME carmakers stipulate a belt change at 90,000km, but it isn't unusual for the recommended interval to be 150,000km. Ford's service schedule is 150,000km or 10 years, whichever comes first. I see no reason not to follow that.

YOU really need to keep up the pressure on Ford. Don't take no for an answer.

RUST is an unusual problem today with the body treatment used by every carmaker, so it's worth pressing your case on the basis it is a production problem. Maybe other Territory owners could let us know if they've had the problem.