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142 / 144 / 145

1966-1974 / Sedan / Estate / Sweden

All 142 / 144 / 145 problems All workshop issues
Common Fuel System

Fuel Tank Rust and Contaminated Fuel

Symptoms

Rough running, clogged filters, stalling, rusty sediment in the fuel filter, fuel leaks at seams or filler neck.

Cause

Moisture condenses in the tank, especially if the car sits unused. The uncoated steel rusts from the inside out. Ethanol in modern fuel accelerates corrosion and dissolves old sealants.

Fix

Drop the tank, inspect internally with a torch.

If heavily rusted, have it chemically cleaned and sealed (POR-15, Red-Kote, or similar).

Replace the fuel sender seal, check the pickup sock for debris, fit a new filter.

If the tank is rotted through, replacement is the only fix, original tanks are scarce, so aftermarket or stainless options exist.

Always run a quality inline filter and replace it annually.

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Other known issues

Critical Fuel System

Fuel Pump Failure (Mechanical or Electric)

Engine cranks but won't start, or starts then dies. Sputtering, loss of power, stalling under load.
Critical Fuel System

Perished Fuel Hoses and Leaks

Fuel smell in the cabin or engine bay, visible drips or wet patches around hose connections, hard starting, rough running.
Common Engine

Oil Leaks from Front and Rear Crankshaft Seals

Persistent weeping or pooling of oil beneath the engine, especially at the front timing cover or rear main seal area. You'll see oil misting onto the bellhousing or dripping from the sump.
Common Engine

Worn Valve Guides and Oil Consumption

Blue smoke on startup or deceleration, fouled spark plugs, rising oil consumption between changes (more than half a litre per 1,000 km).
Common Engine

Carburettor Issues (SU or Zenith-Stromberg)

Rough idle, hesitation, stalling when cold, flat spots under acceleration, poor fuel economy, black exhaust smoke.
Critical Engine

Worn Timing Chain or Belt Tensioner

Rattling or slapping noise from the front of the engine, especially on startup or idle. Loss of power, poor running, or misfires if timing has jumped.
View all 21 142 / 144 / 145 problems