It is impossible to over emphasise the importance of correct lubrication, inspection and running adjustments, if you wish to obtain the best level of service from your Ford Anglia and Ford Prefect. Each week there will be the usual four Daily Checks and at least four other minimum checks you should do to your vehicle.The Weekly service also incorporates:

  • Check the Engine Oil Level
  • Check the Radiator Level
  • Check the Petrol Level in the Tank
  • Check the Windscreen is Clean
  • Check the Battery Electrolyte Level
  • Check the Brake and Clutch Fluid Reservoir Levels
  • Check the Operation of all Lights
  • Check the Tyre Pressures

Check the Battery Electrolyte Level

The battery is accessibly located under the bonnet, within the engine compartment.

Remove the filler caps and check that the electrolyte in each cell is 1/4 to 3/8 in (6.35 to 9.525 mm) above the tops of the plates. If below this level add distilled water as necessary. (In cold weather the distilled water should only be added immediately before running the engine, so that when the generator is charging, the water and electrolyte will mix and prevent freezing.)

The filler caps can now be refitted.Keep the battery filler caps and battery connections tight and the top of the battery clean.A coating of petroleum jelly will protect the battery terminals. Occasionally check the battery clamp to ensure that the mounting wings nuts are tight and the battery is still secure in the battery tray.Excessive use of distilled water by the battery is usually an indication of an unduly high generator-charging rate and you should consult an Auto Electrician or your Authorised Ford Dealer and have the charging system checked.

Check the Brake and Clutch Fluid Reservoir Levels

The brake and clutch fluid reservoirs are located in the engine compartment on the driver’s side of the car and are integral with their master cylinders. When checking or replenishing the system wipe the sides of the reservoirs and caps with a clean dry cloth to prevent any dirt entering the system.

Do not use a cloth that is greasy or has been soaked in petrol or paraffin etc.Remove each cap by unscrewing it and top up if necessary to the level indicated on the reservoir casing (approximately 5/8in (16mm) from the rim).

Use only the correct brake fluid, obtainable from your Authorised Ford Dealer.

Warning – MINERAL OILS MUST NOT BE USED IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES FOR TOPPING UP THE RESERVOIRS.

Check the Tyre Pressures

It is necessary to keep the tyre pressures at the specified figures, checking the pressures at least once a week is recommended. It’s not always apparent that air is being lost, but it generally escapes at the rate of up to two pounds of air every month. More air is usually lost during warm weather, so more regular checks are needed when temperatures rise. Incorrect tyre pressures or excessive wear can adversely affect the steering and braking of the car.

The tyre pressure should be checked before a run whilst the tyres are cold, as a hot tyre will give a higher reading. If the tyres are checked hot, do not, in any circumstances, bleed off this increase in pressure.

The air pressure in the tyres has a pronounced effect on the action of the brakes, as well as the correct operation of the front suspension and steering gear.

To check the pressure of a tyre, remove the valve cap and press a suitable tyre gauge firmly ito place. If necessary sufficient air should be added to bring the tyre pressure up to the amount specified. Do not forget to check the pressure of the spare wheel.

Do not forget to refit the valve cap.Unequal or insufficient pressure results in rapid wear, uneven braking and heavy steering.The correct tyre pressures are:

  • Anglia Saloon – 22lb/sq in (1.54 kg/sq cm) front and rear
  • Anglia Estate – 24 lb/sq in (1.69 kg/sq cm) front and 30 lb/sq in (2.11 kg/sq cm) rear
  • Anglia 5cwt Van – 24 lb/sq in (1.69 kg/sq cm) front and rear
  • Anglia 7cwt Van – 24 lb/sq in (1.69 kg/sq cm) front and 30 lb/sq in (2.11 kg/sq cm) rear
  • Prefect – 24 lb/sq in (1.69 kg/sq cm) front and rear

More information about tyres is contained in the General Maintenance for Wheels and Tyres page

Check the Operation of all Lights

Operate all of the lights one at a time and check that they operate correctly and that there are no blown bulbs. As well as it being unsafe to drive without operating lights, it is also an offense in the UK.
To replace any of the bulbs, follow the steps at the General Maintenance for Lights Page.

 

Information taken from Various Ford Anglia and Ford Prefect Instruction Books and Handbooks.

Warning – The Health and Safety bit

Please note your health may be at risk if you do not take sensible safety precautions. Never work under an unsupported vehicle, do not take shortcuts. If you feel that the task is beyond your capabilities, then employ the services of a trained professional. The Ford Anglia 105E Owners Club nor the author cannot be held responsible for any accidents or injury arising from advice given on this webpage. Safety advice can be obtained from the RoSPA. The advice and opinions given are purely those of the author and not necessarily those of the Ford Anglia 105E Owners Club.