1967 Ford Fairlane GTA Hardtop 289 Challenger V-8 – Workshop Repair Manual

1967 Ford Fairlane GTA Hardtop 390 V8 Automatic Transmission FAQs | Common Problems & Solutions

• How can I address rust issues in my 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA Hardtop 390 V8?

  Rust is quite common on classic Fairlanes, particularly around the cowl vents, lower door panels, rear quarter panels, and the trunk area. To tackle it, you’ll first need to carefully inspect and locate all affected spots. Cleaning out debris from cowl vents helps immensely. For surface rust, gentle sanding and priming often work. Deeper rust might need cutting out and replacing with new metal, or perhaps reproduction panels if available. Make sure to seal up any old window or trunk seals, as they are often a culprit for water getting in.

• What are common transmission problems with the C6 automatic in my 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA 390, and how can I resolve them?

  The C6 automatic in your Fairlane is generally stout, but issues can crop up. If you notice slipping gears or hard shifts, a good first step is to check the transmission fluid level and condition; low or dirty fluid is a common cause. Also, inspect the vacuum modulator and filter for blockages or signs of failure. Leaks around the pan gasket or seals are also pretty typical for older units, so look for drips. Sometimes, worn clutches might be the reason for slipping, but start with the easier checks first.

• Are there known issues with the 390 V-8 engine in my 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA Hardtop, and what signs should I look for?

  The 390 V-8 is a great engine, but some owners report potential issues like bent pushrods or lifter problems. You might hear unusual valvetrain noises, like a persistent ticking or clattering sound, if these are acting up. Another characteristic some early 390s had was an oil restriction at the oil filter port, which can affect oil flow. Keep an eye on your oil pressure gauge, and if you hear any new engine sounds, it’s a good idea to have the valvetrain looked at during your next maintenance check.

• Why might I have difficulty installing aftermarket headers in my 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA 390, and how can I create more clearance?

  Fitting aftermarket headers on a 1967 Fairlane GTA 390 can sometimes be a tight squeeze due to the shock tower design and how the chassis might have settled over the years. A common trick is to temporarily spread the shock towers just a little. You can often achieve this by jacking the car up carefully under the engine brace, which puts a slight outward pressure on the towers. Installing a Monte Carlo bar or strut rod afterward can help maintain that extra bit of clearance and keep things solid.

• What should I know about the Ford 9-inch rear end in my 1967 Ford Fairlane GTA Hardtop, especially regarding axle issues?

  The Ford 9-inch rear end in your Fairlane is quite strong, known for its reliability. However, one specific thing to keep an eye on is the axle shaft bearings. They essentially hold the axle shaft in place. If the car experiences a lot of heavy side loads, say from spirited driving, the bearing race or seal can get damaged. Occasionally, a bearing might work its way off the axle, or a lock ring could fail. It’s not super common for street cars, but regular inspections, especially if you drive it hard, are a good idea.