1973 Ford Ranchero problems

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The Ford Ranchero is a coupe utility that was produced by Ford between 1957 and 1979. Unlike a standard pickup truck, the Ranchero was adapted from a two-door station wagon platform that integrated the cab and cargo bed into the body. A total of 508,355 units were produced during the model's production run. Over its lifespan it was variously derived from full-sized, compact, and intermediate automobiles sold by Ford for the North American market.

During the 1970s, the Ranchero name was used in the South African market for a rebadged Australian Ford Falcon utility. Shipped from Australia in complete knock down (CKD) form, these vehicles were assembled in South Africa at Ford's plant in Port Elizabeth. In Argentina, a utility version of the locally produced Ford Falcon was also called Ranchero.

The original Ranchero sold well enough to spawn a competitor from General Motors in 1959, the Chevrolet El Camino.

1973 Ford Ranchero

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Common 1973 Ford Ranchero problems

The 1973 Ford Ranchero is a classic muscle car that offers potential owners an excellent compromise between load-carrying capacity and family car comfort. However, like many classic cars, the Ranchero can have its fair share of issues, particularly when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. Here are some common problems with the 1973 Ford Ranchero based on complaints from owners:

  1. Charging System Problems: One of the most common issues with the 1973 Ford Ranchero is related to the charging system. Some owners have reported that the charge light comes on while driving, indicating that the battery is not charging. This issue can be caused by a faulty alternator or a problem with the voltage regulator. A visual inspection of the charging system components, including the alternator, voltage regulator, and battery, can help diagnose the problem. In some cases, replacing the alternator or voltage regulator may be necessary.
  2. Brush Holder Assembly: Another common issue with the 1973 Ford Ranchero is related to the brush holder assembly in the alternator. The brush holder assembly is responsible for providing power to the alternator's rotor, and if it becomes worn or damaged, it can cause charging system problems. Some owners have reported that pressing on the brush holder assembly can help make contact and restore charging, but this is only a temporary solution. Replacing the brush holder assembly with a new or rebuilt one can help fix the problem.
  3. Rust: Rust is a common problem with many classic cars, and the 1973 Ford Ranchero is no exception. Ranchero's are notorious for rusting from the inside out, and Arizona cars, like the one in the search results, are not immune to this issue. Rust can affect the body, frame, and other components of the car, and it can be expensive to repair. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent rust from becoming a major issue.
  4. Starting System Problems: Some owners of the 1973 Ford Ranchero have reported issues with the starting system. In some cases, the engine may crank slowly or not at all, indicating a problem with the starter motor or the battery. A visual inspection of the starting system components, including the battery, starter motor, and starter solenoid, can help diagnose the problem. In some cases, replacing the battery or starter motor may be necessary.
  5. Fuel System Problems: The 1973 Ford Ranchero's fuel system can also be a source of problems. Some owners have reported issues with the fuel pump, fuel filter, and carburetor. These issues can cause problems with starting, idling, and acceleration. Regular maintenance and inspections of the fuel system components can help prevent these issues from becoming major problems.

In conclusion, the 1973 Ford Ranchero is a classic muscle car that can offer potential owners an excellent compromise between load-carrying capacity and family car comfort. However, like many classic cars, the Ranchero can have its fair share of issues, particularly when it comes to maintenance and upkeep. Regular inspections and maintenance can help prevent these issues from becoming major problems and ensure that the Ranchero remains a reliable and enjoyable vehicle for years to come.

1973 Ford Ranchero engine

What is the mpg on a 1973 Ranchero?

Based on data from 1 vehicles, 3 fuel-ups and 535 miles of driving, the 1973 Ford Ranchero gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.84 with a 0.78 MPG margin of error.

How much horsepower does a 1973 Ranchero have?

98 - 360 hpMMP Rating

Engine Specifications
Horsepower:98 - 360 hp
Torque:186 - 480 lb-ft
Compression Ratio:8.0:1 - 11.3:1
Ignition System:Conventional, breaker point

What is the new Ford Ranchero?

And fuel efficiency. The wheel arches are subtly flared accommodating a range of Wheel and Tire options further enhancing its rugged appearance.

How much is a Ranchero car worth?

A: The average price of a Ford Ranchero is $22,780.

How much horsepower does a 1973 Ranchero have?

98 - 360 hp

MMP Rating

Engine Specifications
Horsepower:98 - 360 hp
Torque:186 - 480 lb-ft
Compression Ratio:8.0:1 - 11.3:1
Ignition System:Conventional, breaker point

What is the mpg on a 1973 Ranchero?

Based on data from 1 vehicles, 3 fuel-ups and 535 miles of driving, the 1973 Ford Ranchero gets a combined Avg MPG of 8.84 with a 0.78 MPG margin of error.

What size tires does a 1973 Ford Ranchero have?

Tires: Standard: E78-14 B (F70 B white lettered tires on GT).

What is the new Ford Ranchero?

And fuel efficiency. The wheel arches are subtly flared accommodating a range of Wheel and Tire options further enhancing its rugged appearance.

1973 Ford Ranchero car problems categorized by type of issue

After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Ranchero problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:

  • Tires problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1973 Ford Ranchero vehicle components and the number of complaints received.

1973 Ford Ranchero complaints

The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1973 Ford Ranchero.

2003-12-02

TIRES PROBLEM

  • Date Of Incident: 2003-12-02
  • Components: TIRES
  • Summary: THE LEFT REAR TIRES SHOWED SIGNS OF EXCESSIVE CRACKING. KELLY SPRINGFIELD. SIZE# 215/70R14, DOT# UNKNOWN. *AK

1973 Ford Ranchero recalls

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1973 Ford Ranchero.

1973-07-30
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
1973-03-12
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STEERING:LINKAGES:ARM:IDLER AND ATTACHMENT
1972-11-08
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
1972-09-29
  • Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
  • Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX (OTHER THAN RACK AND PINION)
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Additional sources

More sources of information about 1973 Ford Ranchero problems:

What to look for in buying a Ranchero - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
What to look for in buying a Ranchero - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/200839-what-to-look-for-in-buying-a-ranchero.html

Feb 4, 2004 ... Are these common problems???? rebel8324's ... 1957/79 all: Ford spot welded the bed floor pan ... 1966 68 Ranchero 9" rear end ? 1973 Ranchero.

The 400 engine good or bad? | ranchero.us
The 400 engine good or bad? | ranchero.us
http://www.ranchero.us/forum/index.php?threads/the-400-engine-good-or-bad.17505/

Aug 22, 2013 ... But I've heard that a 460 will bolt up to a 400M tranny with no issues. (Much better luck with a 460!) :). Click to expand... In 1973 Ford made ...

1976 Ford Ranchero GT 'Ignition Switch?' - Ford Truck Enthusiasts ...
1976 Ford Ranchero GT 'Ignition Switch?' - Ford Truck Enthusiasts ...
https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/314773-1976-ford-ranchero-gt-ignition-switch.html

Dec 4, 2004 ... One very common problem with the Rancheros and perhaps other Fords is that the "key" does not return to the "run" position after the engine ...

Water Leak! | ranchero.us
Water Leak! | ranchero.us
http://www.ranchero.us/forum/index.php?threads/water-leak.20639/

Jun 26, 2015 ... This pic is common of the Mustang/Torino/ Ranchero Cowl problem, Yours is probably not this bad. When I wash my Ranchero I cover the cowl vents ...

The Ringer: 1973 Ford Gran Torino 4 door 351 - The Ford Torino ...
The Ringer: 1973 Ford Gran Torino 4 door 351 - The Ford Torino ...
https://forum.grantorinosport.org/the-ringer-1973-ford-gran-torino-4-door-351_topic17353.html

Aug 13, 2018 ... The brake pedal still goes to the floor so there are other issues. I have parts to do the rear brakes and master cylinder. I can't find a new or ...

Other years of Ford Ranchero

ford ranchero 1979 photo
Ranchero 1979
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ford ranchero 1973 photo
Ranchero 1973
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1973 Ford Ranchero photo