Ford Problems

ONCE loaded, you will be travelling close to the Escape's limit of 1600kg, so you need to be careful. If you stay within Ford's recommendation I can't see a problem, but get the Escape serviced, including checks of the auto transmission, airconditioning and cooling.

IT'S not uncommon for water to be expelled from the exhaust at start-up, particularly when the engine is cold. It is condensation that accumulates in the exhaust system as the engine cools down after being run, and is then expelled when you start the engine again. It's nothing to worry about.

Unless you need a vehicle capable of driving over rough or slippery ground, I would buy a 2WD diesel ute. It will be more economical than a 4WD and will tow your trailer without problems. Your budget will get you an upmarket ute. Look at the Toyota Hilux or new Mitsubishi Triton. Also, there are good deals available on the Mazda Bravo and Ford Courier for much less. For little more than $20,000 you'll get a 2WD diesel with a tray and toolbox.

MOST ad agencies and film companies approach car clubs to source cars. Maybe you should talk to a Ford club. Or you could produce an information pack on your car and send it to ad agencies and film and TV production companies.

FORD'S dedicated e-gas engine has been developed to run on LPG. Some modifications to the head and connecting rods help it withstand the punishment handed out by LPG. Ford generally recommends that you not convert your regular petrol engine to LPG, but several LPG converters will convert and they say they have no trouble with them. A lot of Falcons are running on aftermarket dual-fuel systems. But you need to be aware of the implications for your warranty. Ford will cover nothing that's affected by the installation of the LPG system, so part of your warranty will become void. The LPG system installer is responsible for covering its work.

IN A word, yes. For a start you should have your car serviced before departing. Also have the airconditioning serviced because it will be working hard. Falcons can have cooling-system problems, and certainly have the auto trans serviced and an oil cooler fitted. The Falcon auto really doesn't carry enough oil and the result is that it can overheat when asked to work hard, such as when towing.

GET an auto electrician to go through the electrical system. I'd be most suspicious of the electronic control module for the body. They often go on the fritz.

I TAKE it you're talking about a removable steering-wheel lock that you fit to the steering wheel while the car is parked. If so, I can think of no reason it would damage the airbag.

YOU would recoup the cost of installation in 18 months to two years, which makes it worthwhile, particularly if you plan to keep the ute for a few years.

I find the advice you received most interesting. To suggest an oil cooler would cause ``the system'', whatever that means, to overheat is contrary to industry advice. This says fitting an external transmission oil cooler is good insurance if you plan to tow in hot weather over long distances. I do agree your warranty would be affected. It would no longer cover parts modified to fit the cooler, but an installer should provide a warranty to cover this work.