2005 Ford FPV F6 Typhoon automatic – Workshop Repair Manual

2005 Ford FPV F6 Typhoon Automatic FAQ: Common Problems, Troubleshooting & Maintenance Tips

• What should I do if my 2005 FPV F6 Typhoon's automatic transmission fluid looks like a "milkshake"?

  If you see a milky, strawberry milkshake-like fluid in your coolant reservoir, it's a strong sign of the dreaded "milkshake" issue. This usually means your transmission cooler, often built into the radiator, has failed, mixing coolant and transmission fluid. You'll need to bypass or replace the faulty cooler, ideally with an external air-to-oil unit. Many owners opt for this preventative modification. If contamination is severe, the transmission might require a rebuild, so it's best to address it quickly.

• Why is my 2005 FPV F6 Typhoon experiencing a rough or unstable engine idle, and how can I fix it?

  A rough or unstable engine idle in your FPV F6 Typhoon, especially in the BA/BF series, was actually covered by Ford Australia's Technical Service Bulletin 20/05. The recommended fix involves two main steps: first, giving your throttle body a good clean, and then, having the Engine Control Unit (ECU) re-flashed. This procedure often smooths out that quirky idle right away. It's a common issue, and thankfully, has a pretty straightforward solution.

• How can I tell if my 2005 FPV F6 Typhoon needs new differential bushes, and what's involved in replacing them?

  You’ll likely notice worn differential bushes if you hear a "clunk" from the rear when accelerating from a stop, or perhaps feel a general looseness in the back of the car. It's a very common issue on BA/BF Falcons. For replacement, it generally means dropping the entire diff cradle, which is a bit of a job, involving removing wheels, brakes, exhaust, and the tail shaft. Many opt for aftermarket polyurethane bushes for better longevity, but getting them pressed in correctly is key. It's certainly a task that can take a good afternoon, maybe more.

• My 2005 FPV F6 Typhoon has a power steering leak, and my alternator seems to be failing; are these related?

  Yes, absolutely, these two problems are often connected! Power steering leaks are quite common in BA/BF Falcons, and unfortunately, the fluid frequently drips directly onto the alternator. This power steering fluid is really bad for the alternator's internals, causing it to fail prematurely. So, if you're replacing your alternator, it's super important to track down and fix that power steering leak first. Often, it's just a worn O-ring on the high-pressure line, but sometimes the hose itself or even the pump needs attention.

• What causes a rough engine idle in my FPV F6 Typhoon, and what's the cost for a DIY valve spring replacement?

  A rough engine idle in your FPV F6 Typhoon can often be traced back to softening valve springs, especially as the car ages. For a DIY valve spring replacement on the Barra 270T engine, the main cost is the valve spring kit itself, usually around $270 to $400 AUD for a good quality set. You’ll also need a valve spring compressor tool and a way to hold the valves up, like compressed air. It’s a time-consuming job, probably taking a few hours for a seasoned DIYer, but it saves on significant labor costs.