Guide for purchasing a Ford Granada Mk2
The Ford Granada Mk2, a popular choice among car enthusiasts, is known for its handsome styling, DIY-friendly mechanics, and comfortable ride. However, like any vehicle, it's not without its common issues and repair needs.
Braking issues are one of the most common problems faced by Granada Mk2 owners. Corroded front brake discs, seized rear wheel cylinders, distorted brake drums, and sticking calipers are common faults, often arising from inactivity rather than heavy use. Diagnosis involves inspecting these components for corrosion or seizure, and repair is straightforward since parts are plentiful and affordable. Replacing worn components usually resolves braking problems.
Interior wear is another frequent issue, with worn driver’s seat side bolsters, sun damage to rear bench cloth, warped door cards, collapsed armrests (especially on facelift models), and cracked dashboards being the most common signs. These are mostly cosmetic but affect comfort and aesthetics. Repair is challenging due to scarce replacement trims, and may involve sourcing used parts or custom refurbishment.
Electrical and heater problems are also common, with erratic operation of electrical devices often stemming from a worn fusebox or water ingress into the wiring loom due to a rotten bulkhead. Heater problems are also common. Diagnosis requires checking the fusebox condition and inspecting bulkhead areas for moisture damage. Repairs likely include replacing the fusebox, drying and repairing wiring, and addressing bulkhead corrosion.
Running gear and steering issues can also arise, with vague handling or drivetrain vibrations indicating wear in suspension or steering components. These require inspection and possibly replacing worn joints, bushings, or a power steering filter to protect the system from contaminants, thereby preventing premature pump failure.
In summary, to identify and repair common Ford Granada Mk2 issues:
- Inspect brakes for corrosion or seizure and replace affected parts.
- Examine interior trim for wear or damage; replacements may be needed but can be difficult to source.
- Test electrical systems for erratic function and inspect fusebox and bulkhead wiring for damage.
- Check steering and suspension for play or wear; consider installing or replacing power steering filters for longevity.
These repairs are generally manageable, with parts availability being good for brakes and electrical components but more limited for interior trim. Good examples of the Ford Granada Mk2 need more careful searching but are worth the extra effort.
The Pinto, another popular Ford model, often experiences fuel leakage in its Weber carburettor, and poor running is often due to elderly ignition components or incorrectly gapped tappets. The Bosch K-Jetronic fuel injection on 2.8-litre engines can have problems with the air flow meter or cold start sensor.
Survivors of the Ford Granada Mk2 are becoming increasingly scarce, but rising values and interest are giving cars close to the end of their functional lives a fighting chance of restoration. Manual transmissions in the Ford Granada Mk2 should be checked for vague gearshift, failing synchromesh, jumping out of gear, and noisy, collapsed bearings. The system's hoses may be damaged by their proximity to the hot exhaust manifold.
If you fancy a large 70s car and would rather stay clear of more expensive offerings from BMW and Mercedes, the Granada is the perfect choice. Tired, unforgiving suspension can be replaced with new dampers and springs. Tight spots in the steering rack, especially accompanied with any signs of leakage, are a sign of advanced wear in the Power-Assisted Steering (PAS) system.
Braking issues on the Ford Granada Mk2 can be resolved with plentiful and affordable parts. The Pierburg/Solex carburettor on 2.3- and 2.8-litre cars is prone to wear in its throttle body and auto choke mechanism. If electrical equipment is erratic in operation, it's a likely result of wear in the fusebox or a terminally rotten bulkhead that has allowed water to seep into the wiring loom.
In conclusion, while the Ford Granada Mk2 may require some TLC, its charm and practicality make it a worthy investment for any car enthusiast. With a bit of know-how and patience, these common issues can be identified and repaired, ensuring many more miles of enjoyable driving.
The finance industry may find purchasing and maintaining a Ford Granada Mk2 financially feasible, considering the affordability of replacement parts, especially for brakes and electrical components. In the realm of transportation, owning a Ford Granada Mk2 offers a retro driving experience, with the automotive industry offering numerous examples of the model for enthusiasts to choose from.
