Engine: |
In modern driving conditions the five bearing 1500 is a must over the less torquey 1200. Tappet noise is not unusual nor a problem under hard acceleration. Oil should be changed often to prevent sludging which will block the breathers. Also check for sludge in the vented oil filler cap. Any smoke coming from this cap when engine is hot should be noted. |
Transmission: |
Cortina's were renowned for their excellent gears so not many problems here!!! Both remote & direct types work well but give column change a good test as they wear much sooner. Automatics should change smoothly on acceleration and quick on deceleration. Minor vibration in manuals could be bushes. Beware, their aren't many DIY jobs you can do on the gearbox. |
Rear Axle: |
A single piece propshaft was used with a sliding spindle on the gearbox tailshaft, all with universal joints, and grease nipples on the earlier models. If these joints become worn the shaft will vibrate causing unnecessary wear to the pinion bearing, gearbox output shaft bearing and their respective oil seals. |
Steering: |
Polyurethane bushes are now available, and recommended, for the inner track control arm bushes, the older rubber type degraded when soiled in engine oil, and you could be changing them every MOT!!! The re-circulating ball steering box joints on the chassis leg should be checked for corrosion. Steering should be light and smooth, but watch those corners when its been raining!!! |
Suspension: |
Rear suspension is semi-elliptic springs with telescopic dampers, the main problem is corroded suspension mounts and weak or loose U-bolts. On the front are MacPherson struts, check for the reinforced top strut mounting points, worn bushes & bottom swivel-joints. Wheel bearings should allow about an eighth of an inch of free play |
Brakes: |
Earlier models had drums all round, later had the much better self-adjusting discs at the front. Rear shoes need frequent adjustment that will also alter the handbrake. Provided pads and shoes are not worn the brakes will work well. |
Electrics: |
Only a couple of in-line fuses were used in the Cortina. Beware of overloading circuits, especially the interior courtesy light supply, as this could lead to a fire. If you unplug the indicator wires in front of the radiator be careful to put them back the right way round, otherwise you may go left when you want to go right!!! |
Bodywork: |
Front wings are expensive to replace so check both wings around the headlamp bowl for corrosion, also ensure they are not fibre glass. Also inspect inner & outer sills, door bottoms and all corrosive points mentioned above. Windscreen rubbers should be checked for perishing, any signs of perishing and they will leak when it rains. Interior trim door panels are scarce so check all four match!!! Finally check the headlining for rips, it gets very brittle with age and is a real pain to replace. |
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