Faults:

Some temperature and cooling problems.

The 351C thermostat design uses an integral bypass valve. If a generic thermostat is installed without this rubber sleeve or the valve, the coolant flow is diverted directly to the radiator without passing through the engine, causing overheating.

Premature wear of the connecting rod and main bearings, or lack of lubrication in the upper part if driven at constant high revolutions.

Rattling noise, valves that misadjust themselves, or wear on the camshafts.

General Comments:

A spectacular little pickup!

Built on the Ford Torino platform, it has a captivating and timeless design. One of the few that made it to Northern Europe, I was lucky enough to find one in excellent condition back in late 2009. Gold in color with a light brown interior, I didn't waste a second looking at it and it stole my heart.

Yes, for Americans a 5.8-liter gasoline engine might be considered normal, especially in the 1970s when this car was made, but by European standards, this is a real tank. A very powerful engine, fuel-guzzling, but one that delivers nothing but satisfaction; just hearing the roar of the V8 makes you feel like a god inside a vehicle. Very robust and extremely reliable mechanics; at least the Cleveland 351 doesn't give you any trouble.

The vehicle is suitable both for work and as a regular daily driver in the city (I live in rural Finland, but it handles well in cities).

For being over 40 years old, it handles very well, with good stability and excellent steering. It also brakes quite well, although at high speeds you need to be careful when braking.

If you maintain and care for it, it might even seem like it was made recently. All the internal materials are high quality and show no wear or rust (it was galvanized when I bought it).

I'm so happy with it that I cherish it like a daughter, and I plan to keep it for a long time. After all, these cars were made to last a lifetime!