SUSPENSION & BRAKES

Suspension simplicity means that even a Falcon/Fairmont suffering serious chassis neglect can be refurbished easily and for not much money. Symptoms include more than 50mm of play at the steering wheel, squawking from the front end at low speeds and a sagging rear end. Leaf springs lose temper and flatten or crack, leading to a harsh, noisy ride. A brake pedal that feels mushy or excessively hard may signify a faulty master cylinder or power booster. Both are still available and not expensive. New brake rotors and rear drums remain available too. If the steering wanders, allow $350 for a rebuilt steering box and double that if the power steering has serious fluid leaks.