Falcon (XK-XP)

1960-1966 / Sedan / Convertible / Estate / Australia

All Falcon (XK-XP) problems All workshop issues

Critical Engine: 144ci and 170ci Inline-Six

Fuel System Deterioration

Symptoms

Hard starting, rough idle, hesitation on acceleration, flooding, poor fuel economy, fuel smell.

Cause

The Autolite single-barrel carburettor deteriorates internally, needle valve, float, accelerator pump, and gaskets all degrade. Ethanol in modern fuel attacks old rubber seals and accelerates corrosion of zinc and aluminium components. The mechanical fuel pump's diaphragm perishes.

Fix

Rebuild the carburettor with a kit if available ($40-80).

Alternatively, convert to a Weber 32/36 DGAV, which bolts on with an adapter and provides much better drivability ($350-500 complete).

Replace the fuel pump diaphragm or fit an electric fuel pump near the tank with a pressure regulator.

Replace all rubber fuel lines, modern ethanol-resistant hose is essential.

Cost mentioned in fix

$40-80$350-500

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// More Falcon (XK-XP) problems

Other known issues

Critical Engine: 144ci and 170ci Inline-Six

Cooling System Inadequacy

Temperature gauge climbs in slow traffic, on hot days, or when towing. The engine may boil over, pushing coolant out of the overflow.

Critical Engine: 144ci and 170ci Inline-Six

Worn Valve Guides

Blue smoke on startup that clears after a few minutes. Increased oil consumption. In severe cases, blue smoke under all conditions.

Common Engine: 144ci and 170ci Inline-Six

Crankshaft Rear Main Seal Leak

Oil leak from the rear of the engine, dripping onto the bellhousing and gearbox. Oil on the clutch causes slipping (manual cars) or contaminates the torque converter (automatics).

Critical Rust (The Big One)

Floor Pan Corrosion

Visible rust perforation on the underside of the floor. Soft, spongy metal when prodded. In severe cases, daylight visible through the cabin floor.

Critical Rust (The Big One)

Sill (Rocker Panel) Rot

Bubbling paint along the lower body sides, soft metal when prodded, visible perforation.

Common Rust (The Big One)

Boot Floor and Spare Tyre Well

Rust in the boot floor, water pooling in the spare tyre well, perforation around the tail-light mounting points.

View all 18 Falcon (XK-XP) problems