1971 Ford Ranch wagon problems
The Ford Ranch Wagon is a station wagon which was built by Ford in the United States from 1952 to 1974. The Ranch Wagon was a full-size model, except in 1963 and 1964, when it was part of the intermediate-size Fairlane series, and represented the lowest-priced selection in its respective line.
1952–1962
In the early 1950s, the wood-bodied station wagon was becoming upscale and expensive. When Ford introduced a redesigned line of cars for the 1952 model year, its Country Squire continued to cater to buyers who still wanted a station wagon with the look of wood (attained by applying simulated exterior wood decals, which were framed in genuine wood through 1953).
For other wagon buyers, Ford also gave them two new choices that year, the first all-steel wagons in the firm's history. These were the Country Sedan, a four-door model in the mid-range Customline series and the Ranch Wagon, which was a two-door model in the economy Mainline series, inspired by the European-term shooting-brake. The Ranch Wagon had either the standard "Mileage Maker" six-cylinder engine or the long-familiar flathead V8, which was optional.
After receiving mostly cosmetic changes for 1953, a second Ranch Wagon model, a slightly fancier version in the Customline series, was added for 1954, the year Ford's new Y-block V8 replaced the flathead unit. The two models were renamed Ranch Wagon and Custom Ranch Wagon for 1955, when the entire Ford station wagon set became a series of its own. For 1957, the Del Rio Ranch Wagon was introduced (replacing both the Custom Ranch Wagon and the Parklane), sporting special ranch-pattern upholstery. That same model was the basis for the new 1957 Ranchero, and a Mercury version called the Mercury Commuter which was a hardtop inspired wagon without a "B" pillar.
There were three Ranch Wagons the following year, as the first four-door Ranch Wagon was added to the model range. The Del Rio was dropped for 1959, replaced by a one-year-only two-door Country Sedan. By this time, full-size two-door station wagons were fading in popularity, and the 1961 two-door Ranch Wagon was the last full-size two-door wagon ever built (along with the two-door Plymouth Deluxe Suburban of that same year), leaving the four-door as the sole Ranch Wagon model for 1962.
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Common 1971 Ford Ranch wagon problems
The 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon is known for its exterior appearance issues, particularly its susceptibility to rapid deterioration. This was a common problem faced by used car buyers in the 1970s, and the '71 Ford Ranch Wagon was no exception. The exterior of the car was prone to dissolving, similar to sugar dissolving in water, making it a less than ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and long-lasting vehicle.
Another issue with the 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon was the quality of its tailgate. Some owners reported that the tailgate was "meant to deceive," suggesting that it may have been replaced or repaired poorly, leading to a less than satisfactory appearance and potential functionality issues.
Furthermore, the 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon was often criticized for its rust-related problems. The car's metal body was susceptible to rust, which could lead to significant structural issues over time. This was a common problem with cars of this era, and the Ford Ranch Wagon was no exception.
The 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon also had issues with its wheel opening trim, which could indicate that it was not just the Custom Ranch Wagon, but the Custom 500 Ranch Wagon. This trim was a distinguishing feature of the higher-end model, and its presence could suggest that the car was intended for a more upscale market.
Despite these issues, the 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon remains a popular choice among classic car enthusiasts. Its distinctive design and unique features make it a desirable collectible, and many owners are willing to invest time and money into restoring and maintaining these vehicles. However, it is important to be aware of the potential problems associated with this car, particularly its susceptibility to rust and exterior deterioration.
In summary, the 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon is a classic car with a number of notable issues. Its exterior appearance, tailgate quality, wheel opening trim, and rust-related problems are all areas where this car may require additional attention and maintenance. However, with proper care and restoration, the 1971 Ford Ranch Wagon can be a valuable and enjoyable addition to any classic car collection.
What years did Ford make the ranch wagon?
The Ford Ranch Wagon is a station wagon which was built by Ford in the United States from 1952 to 1974.
What is a ranch wagon?
For the majority of its life, the Ranch Wagon was an entry level full size station wagon, built in two or four door versions.
What was the last full-size Ford Wagon?
Particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, the Country Squire remained in production until late 1990. Its demise was caused initially by the Chrysler minivans, to which Ford responded with the Aerostar. Ford built around 1.85 million Country Squire wagons in 41 years.
What year was the last Ford station wagon made?
The Ford Taurus wagon was discontinued in 2005 and the Ford Focus station wagon was discontinued in 2008.
What is the history of the Ford Ranch Wagon?
The Ford Ranch Wagon is a station wagon which was built by Ford in the United States from 1952 to 1974. The Ranch Wagon was a full-size model, except in 1963 and 1964, when it was part of the intermediate-size Fairlane series, and represented the lowest-priced selection in its respective line.
What is a ranch wagon?
For the majority of its life, the Ranch Wagon was an entry level full size station wagon, built in two or four door versions.
What is the name of the old Ford station wagon?
Country Squire
Station wagons evolved from early “depot hacks” and buses, intended for hauling people and cargo, often from train stations to hotels, giving them the name “station wagon.” Ford manufactured the Country Squire from 1950-1991.
What was the last full-size Ford wagon?
Particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s, the Country Squire remained in production until late 1990. Its demise was caused initially by the Chrysler minivans, to which Ford responded with the Aerostar. Ford built around 1.85 million Country Squire wagons in 41 years.
1971 Ford Ranch wagon car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Ranch wagon problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1971 Ford Ranch wagon vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1971 Ford Ranch wagon complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1971 Ford Ranch wagon.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-07-25
- VIN: F10GCL88362
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: PURCHASED A TOTAL OF FOUR TIRES FROM L.R. HOOK TIRE CO.,P.O. BOX 1154, LEXINGTON, S.C. 29072 (FIRESTONE FRANCHISED DEALER). THE FAILURE THAT OCCURRED WAS THE TOTAL SEPARATION OF THE TREAD FROM THE TIRE. EVEN THOUGH I HAD HAZZARD INSURANCE ON ALL OF THE TI( DOT NUMBER: VDHL1M6X49 TIRE SIZE: 23575R-15 )
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1971 Ford Ranch wagon problems:
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Oct 14, 2023 ... ... problems with space due to the 302 water pump sticking out so far. ... 1971 SBF, why I don't know. ... Neither one had a badge that said Customline ...
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