Some of our newer members have indicated a reluctance to drive their FE/FC over long distances, particularly the Gold Coast at Easter.
For those members & anyone else considering a long trip in the "Old Girl". Here are a few suggestions that will help to ensure that you get there & back with a minimum of frustration. I would welcome any other suggestions.
These checks were all we used before heading off to Perth in "Gertie" in 1968 for a 6 week holiday. The only hold up was a flat tyre caused by a faulty tube (replaced under warranty)
- Replace top and bottom radiator hoses. Carry old ones for spares.
- Replace fan belt. Carry old one for spare.
- Arrange to have the cooling system pressure tested.
- While not original, old Holdens perform better in the heat with a water recovery system installed, and if done right can be a bolt-on bolt-off proposition (if you want to remove it before showing the car).
- Replace distributor points and adjust timing. Carry old ones for spare.
- Grease and oil change. This includes checking steering box, gear box and differential oil levels.
- Check tyres and pressures, including the spare. 32-34 psi will provide a reasonable ride, low pressures will cause tyre wear and instability on corners. Also check for uneven tyre wear and rectify the problem with a wheel alignment and balance.
- Check and repair any major oil leaks.
- Thoroughly clean the windscreen inside and out.
- Check headlight adjustment and consider the benefits of quartz halogen lights for night driving. The original lights were okay 40 years ago but the reflectors (like everything else) will dim with age.
- Check drivers seat for weak springs, they can be very uncomfortable over long periods.
- Carry a 4 litre container of water in the boot. If you do get stuck you may get thirsty or you may need it for the radiator.
