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Thursday, August 19, 2010

Carbuyers Guide To The Ford Falcon GLi EF - EL

By Jepan Mihai

When the ford falcon was released the EF engine brought big boost in power and reduced engine coarseness. New electric cooling fans and hydraulic engine mounts were critical and must be in good shape.

Battery box is critical to long battery life. Some had piston slap from new at idle but rattly lifters that stay rattly with revs can suggest worn camshaft or missed oil changes. A batch of cylinder head studs failed and generated head gasket failure on certain EL models. Hard working radiator, coolant hoses and belt require pre-emptive replacement.

Outstanding body corrosion warranty meant few rust problems but odd surface rust shows up in door panels. Early black exterior trim faded or lifted. Driver's door will sag. Unbreakable polycarbonate headlights were a first and can now be crazed or yellow with age but can be buffed-up. They will also need an upgrade for rural use.

Faded amber globes in EF rear indicators can blind other drivers. Boot strut bracket welds fail and damage rear seat belt webbing. Correct tow bar for heavy towing must be fitted otherwise body can stretch beyond repair. Early "dancing" door locks should now be fixed. Driver's seat sags with age but separate covers are removed for cheap cloth and padding replacement.Size and weight will wear out front and rear shockers in 50,000 km but cheap to replace. Tyres last about the same but front end adjustment kit may be required if front tyres are scrubbing. Brake pads last around 20,000 kms with new rotors every fourth pad change.

Even a slight quality lift in tyres, shocks and brake pads will transform any example. Soft rear springs sag under heavy loads and could need upgrading for towing or long distance touring. Ball joints and key suspension bushes require regular inspection and replacement.Standard security once an industry benchmark is now easily beaten. A good EF-EL is an absolute certainty for a theft attempt so patch in additional security unique to your car. One of the riskiest used purchases for recycled stolen examples. A Ford expert or dealer may be best equipped to pick up inconsistencies during a pre-purchase inspection

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