M Wilson's Auto Service Centre

M Wilson's Auto Service Centre Small automotive repair workshop, located in the Perth hills. Founded in 1981. Lic No: MRB 1590 Please call for a quote or further details (08) 92918802

Started in September 1981 by Mark, the business has continued to provide customers with honesty and quality workmanship. In 2004 Chris joined and has this same work ethic and great attention to detail. We can look after most makes and models and cater to your matinence and repair needs.

Moving from one potent Ford powerplant to another, the focus of today’s post is the “Barra” six-cylinder engine produced...
09/09/2026

Moving from one potent Ford powerplant to another, the focus of today’s post is the “Barra” six-cylinder engine produced here in Australia. The Ford inline six configuration was a familiar one lasting over fifty years locally, with various iterations developed for use primarily in the Falcon platform. However, they certainly saved the best for last prior to local engine production ending on the 26th of September 2016.

Released in 2002, the Barra engine was first revealed with the BA Falcon. At a cost of half a billion dollars, Ford Australia went all in to heavily improve and update from the outgoing AU model, one focus being the powerplant. The modernised platform introduced a revised cylinder head, with the move to twin overhead camshafts made. This was partnered with four valves per cylinder, dual variable cam timing, coil on plug ignition and a host of other supporting updates.

Forced induction was also introduced in the form of a turbocharger. During development it earned the internal nickname “Gull” (as in seagull), with those at Ford confident it would “s**t on everything else”. Further developments were made throughout production to improve power, durability and efficiency. These included internal components such as pistons and conrods along with changes to intake systems, intercoolers and even turbochargers in some applications.

The most potent factory offering appeared in the FGX XR6 Sprint, producing up to 370kw and 650nm in ideal conditions using transient overboost. When it comes to modifications, the Barra is very well supported by the aftermarket industry, with countless brands manufacturing components to suit. Used in many conversions both here and overseas, this engine became an icon with a cult following.

Featured here is an example of an early Barra powered offering, in the form of a 2003 BA XR6 Turbo. Finished in “Silhouette”, this automatic example has been with the current owner for twenty years. Aside from its cosmetic changes, it is mostly standard apart from some suspension and brake component changes which we have performed previously. This visit centred around a fuel leak, which was traced to the tank itself.

After removing the original tank, a good second-hand item was sourced, cleaned and fitted along with a new filler hose. Whilst the cradle was removed, the diff cover was resealed to rectify a leak, with new genuine driveshaft seals fitted. A major service was performed including the engine oil and filter, transmission service, coolant and cleaning of various filters. We also replaced the bonnet cable, fuse box and rectified an issue with the driver’s side fog light.

With this model approaching twenty-five years old now, examples like this BA are becoming few and far between. It’s encouraging to see one in this condition that is well looked after and maintained. There are future repairs and changes planned, but for now it can be used and enjoyed, as it should be. Will these models be a future classic? We may be bias, but if in right spec and condition, we certainly think so.

As always, for enquiries or availability, please contact us for further information via the usual channels.

Glossworks Detailing

In October of 2010, FPV released its latest and final V8 engine, the supercharged 5.0L dubbed the “Miami”. With the intr...
02/09/2026

In October of 2010, FPV released its latest and final V8 engine, the supercharged 5.0L dubbed the “Miami”. With the introduction of the Euro IV emissions, the previously used 5.4L Boss engine was deemed too expensive to develop and no longer viable. The next best alternative at the time was the “Coyote”, which was slated for the upcoming Mustang and F-150. At a glance, it appeared to be a similar configuration of the Ford Modular family, however Ford USA claimed 95% of the engine was new.

While simply placing a crate engine into the Falcon would have been a viable option, Prodrive and FPV spent around 40 million dollars developing and hand assembling a heavily revised supercharged engine here in Australia. Although many components were imported, a rumoured 35%-40% were locally sourced. One of the most noteworthy is the Harrop/Eaton HTV1900 unit, which received bespoke supporting components before this configuration found its way into the Falcon’s engine bay.

One of the most controversial elements of this engine were the power ratings, which were often found to be very conservative. Using a feature called transient overboost, the engine often recorded figures much higher than quoted. FPV also allowed for further development such as an intercooler, but cost meant these provisions were never realised from factory. An often underrated and misunderstood platform, the “Miami” shows what could be achieved locally with Australian engineering and collaboration.

We regularly have “Miami” powered vehicles through the workshop, recently there was this “Kinetic Blue” FGX XR8. This automatic example is daily driven and is now approaching the 100,000km mark. During a previous service, we noted a slight coolant loss and some excessive play in the water pump pulley. After recommending the vehicle has limited use, we went ahead and organized the relevant parts.

In very similar fashion to the GT-F we featured previously, we took the opportunity to inspect and replace other parts whilst disassembled. These included supercharger oil, drive coupler, drive belts and pulleys and inlet manifold vacuum fitting. We also found that the MAP sensor has been installed incorrectly, which required the thread to be repaired to mount it securely.

Using genuine or OE parts wherever possible, we also noted and matched the original placement and positioning to preserve the factory appearance. Once completed and thoroughly tested, the engine bay received a detail to improve the appearance and presentation.

With the water pump issue now rectified, the FGX can go back to being daily driven. It goes to show why regular servicing and maintenance can be beneficial in catching issues before they develop into a potential failure. We will include a video of the pump in the comments for those interested.

For any enquiries related to servicing or repairs, please get in touch with us for further details or availability.

Harrop Engineering

GT-F 351: For the Fans.The FG MKII GT-F was the swansong for the Ford Performance Vehicle (FPV) brand. Internally known ...
26/08/2026

GT-F 351: For the Fans.

The FG MKII GT-F was the swansong for the Ford Performance Vehicle (FPV) brand. Internally known as the “Rapture” program, it was the final and most powerful FPV ever built. A total of 550 were produced (50 for NZ), with most of the allocations exhausted prior to its official release in June of 2014. FPV engineers made subtle refinements throughout the car to enhance performance while giving the GT-F its own distinct identity.

The supercharged "Miami" V8 delivered a deliberately conservative 351kW output, with over 400kw available during transient over boost. Improving on the R-Spec underpinnings, FPV made minor suspension revisions to further sharpen the package. Software changes were also made to maximise the performance potential and drivability. Inside, the GT-F gained subtle orange highlights, while the exterior was set apart by unique stripes, badging, and selected blackouts.

Build Number 060 is a vehicle that has featured on our page numerous times since its first visit to the workshop twelve years ago. 1 of 14 automatics finished in “Smoke” with the optional silver stripes, it is one of the rarer combinations available. Despite this, the GT-F has seen plenty of use having now travelled 94,000km. This has included multiple Nullarbor crossings, track days and events in various parts of country.

The purpose of its most recent visit stemmed from items noted during its last service. The most pressing issue being some light coolant residue noted on the underside of the bonnet. The passenger side rear CV shaft was also leaking grease from the outer joint. With another track day looming, the decision was made to rectify these issues and address some other relevant maintenance tasks whilst disassembled.

Whilst not requested by the owner, something that we wanted to showcase was the additional effort to make it look like the engine had not been touched. Noting the placement of original items and ensuring labels and markings were preserved. Some cleaning and detailing to components were also performed where appropriate. Genuine or OEM replacement items were predominantly used throughout, including a revision of the supercharger coupling from Harrop themselves.

As can be seen from the photos, this was quite an involved job for what began as finding a coolant leak. However, we were able to replace and rectify numerous items that were beginning to deteriorate or would be requiring replacement in the near and immediate future. With a major service also performed, there is little left to do other than drive and enjoy it. All the original parts were also returned with the vehicle as spares or for future reference.

For servicing and repairs to your FPV, please get in touch for further information and availability.

FPV Bible
Harrop Engineering

Owning an older, modified or project vehicle can often be a romanticized experience, and for good reason. Few things com...
19/08/2026

Owning an older, modified or project vehicle can often be a romanticized experience, and for good reason. Few things compare to a drive when the weather is favorable, particularly when spent with likeminded people sharing the same passion. Whether attending an event, heading to the pub or even just a work commute, these cars should be used and enjoyed.

However, as many of us have experienced, it’s not always as straightforward and trouble free as we would hope. Bringing these vehicles up to the right standard and keeping them there can take significant time, expertise, patience and funds. Challenges like finding quality parts and the right information can also add to the frustration. The EL Fairmont Ghia featured here is an example of what can happen when things don’t quite go as planned.

This “Sparkling Burgundy” Ghia has been a bit of an ongoing saga for the owner for the past few months. Mechanically, it had received a manual conversion and cat back exhaust prior to taking ownership. Otherwise, it was believed to be quite standard apart from some cosmetic changes. It’s a neat and tidy example that was certainly worth persevering with. The car had also received a fair amount of maintenance related work as it was purchased for daily use.

Referred to us by a friend and customer of ours, we were tasked with going through the vehicle to see if we could find and rectify the issues it was having. These were related to erratic idle, misfiring, drivability, stalling and excessive fuel consumption. Before arrival, we asked the owner to provide us with a description and information on what had been done prior, which totaled three full pages. The issues began in February and whilst things had been investigated, changed and improved, a resolution had not been found.

What followed was a lengthy diagnostic process that aimed to find and rectify whatever issues we came across. For context, each issue was found and investigated on its own, we did not just throw parts at it and hope for an outcome. If anything, we returned many genuine and original parts that were supplied with the vehicle as that is always our preference.

Here is a summary of what was found and the repairs and changes that we made:

- Aftermarket distributor was incorrectly installed, cylinder 3 used as number 1 with firing order changed to suit.
- Original Bosch distributor re-installed as per factory with firing order rectified.
- Rocker cover removed to inspect valve timing, gasket replaced.
- Ignition base timing and idle speed could not be set correctly.
- Vacuum leak found at inlet manifold.
- Cylinder 2 injector plug was missing the rubber gasket and had excessive movement.
- Manual conversion wiring was incorrect; this was the reason for the timing and idle setting issues mentioned previously.
- Wiring rectified using correct inputs to suit a manual.
- J3 chip checked for compatibility (still runs the original ECU).
- Very uneven burn across the cylinders, some rich, some very lean.
- Aftermarket injectors replaced with reconditioned genuine Bosch items.
- Spark plugs replaced.
- Ignition base timing and idle speed set as per factory procedure.
- Diagnostic scan performed to check for remaining fault codes.
- Various aftermarket parts replaced with original factory items (ISC, MAP Sensor etc).
- Clutch cable re-routed to sit in a factory orientation away from exhaust.
- Full inspection performed with future repairs recommended.

After what ended up being a lengthy and at times testing experience, we managed to get a positive outcome for the customer. The car now behaves and performs exactly how it should, with many poor driving characteristics no longer present. As can be seen from the list, there was not one issue, it was several smaller issues combined.

We would like to thank Rob from Real World Logic for his assistance with this job, particularly with the conversion wiring. We would also like to thank our customer Nathan for the loan of his EL Fairmont Ghia as a reference. Finally, to the owner for his patience and understanding throughout the process.

As always for bookings, please get in touch for availability and further information.

Cars can mean a lot of different things to different people. For many it’s purely transportation, for some it’s a sense ...
22/07/2026

Cars can mean a lot of different things to different people. For many it’s purely transportation, for some it’s a sense of freedom or an enjoyable pastime. For others it can be an achievement to acquire something that they have sought after or always had pleasant memories of from when they were younger.

While we have a passion for the work we perform, we also like to hear the stories that come with the vehicles that venture through the doors. Either the history related to the vehicles journey, or the motivation behind a recent purchase. In this post, we have an example of both.

More than twenty years ago, our customer’s father had an affection for the late- ‘90’s Fairlanes. Whilst having an EF Falcon wagon himself, he would constantly show the upmarket LWB versions to his son. This began a fondness for the model and the desire to eventually own one. Late last year, an impulse purchase on Marketplace saw it become a reality.

The 1998 NL Fairlane Ghia “Special Edition” featured here is that purchase. Whilst the car was a very neat and largely original example, there was one major drawback in the form of an engine noise. The previous owner noted in the listing that a top-end rebuild may be required, but given the condition, the current owner was prepared to take a risk and get it back in action.

The first visit was to inspect and diagnose the fault, which after a visual inspection, tests and some component removal, we settled on there being a problem in the bottom end of the engine near cylinder 5. Whilst we had theories on what the potential cause and fault may have been, the engine needed to be removed and disassembled before we could confirm the extent of the damage.

We discussed some various options with the owner in terms of how to go about the repairs and even potential changes in engine platform. However, we were all in agreement that due to the condition of the car and its intended use, keeping things original was the best option on this occasion.

The original SOHC was given an extensive rebuild by Jeremy at SSAR, ensuring any damage was dealt with, and reliability would not be a problem moving forward. Whilst the engine was underway, we organised and replaced any parts and accessories we deemed necessary. We also cleaned, painted and detailed various items to ensure the presentation was improved upon.

Once returned, we installed the engine and associated components along with changing every fluid throughout the vehicle. After priming for oil pressure and final checks, the NL fired up instantly and ran incredibly smoothly. With the ignition timing and idle speed set, all that remained was the test drive and final detail. We only had two minor fixes to make due to not being able to drive it previously, then it was time for collection.

Whilst some may not see the value in going this route for the repairs, it is what suited the customer’s wants and needs. For ourselves, it was pleasing to see it back in action in its factory form and it drives incredibly well. The outcome of this job was very satisfying and the excitement from the owner certainly made the effort worth it. We would like to thank him for the opportunity and his patience throughout this process.

Purely by coincidence, one of the other previous owners of this vehicle came to us recently, which meant we could piece together more of the car’s history. That was also quite helpful, and it showed that this car has been cared for since day one, which is the exact sort of thing you should look for when searching for a project.

If you need guidance with a project, repairs or servicing for this type of vehicle, please get in touch with us for further information. Bookings are available from September onwards.

Project vehicles are a topic that we have covered a few times of late, both in terms of how we go about tackling them an...
15/07/2026

Project vehicles are a topic that we have covered a few times of late, both in terms of how we go about tackling them and some examples of recent work. This is a process we continue to refine for both efficiency and improved outcomes for the customer. Challenges with sourcing parts, lengthy lead times and working with other trusted parties all mean that extensive planning is required.

One such example is this “Regency Red” EL XR8 that originally came to us in mid-2023. Overall, the EL was an honest and largely original example, however there were numerous areas that needed to be addressed. Most of the issues found were typical of this era Falcon and are largely wear and age related. After returning in November of last year for a basic service, the owner decided to make a start on the list of items we had given.

The focus of its recent visit was to tackle the steering and suspension, which was completely untouched except for a set of aftermarket springs. The ride control and compliance were lacking, with various noises and excessive play also present. After discussions with the owner, we came up with a plan and organised the extensive list of replacement components. Whilst originally planned for January, parts availability meant the job was delayed until everything was ready prior to the vehicle’s arrival.

Every bush in the suspension was removed and replaced, featuring SuperPro items throughout. Along with parts like control arm and sway bar bushes, this included the addition of a shim style camber and castor kit. The very tired factory Monroe shock absorbers were swapped for a set of Koni “Red” items.

Steering wise, the original rack was removed and rebuilt to rectify both play and oil leaks. This included inner and outer tie rod ends, boots and the necessary seals. The system was also flushed to remove any remnants of the old oil. The ball joints were also renewed due to excessive wear.

Once complete, the XR8 drove like a totally different vehicle. As can often be the case, the state of the worn components isn’t totally realised until they have been renewed. While further mechanical work is required, a significant portion of the necessary repairs have now been addressed. One satisfying part about a work in progress is noticing and appreciating each improvement as you go.

For enquiries or availability on project vehicle work such as this, please get in touch via the usual channels. An inspection is required before undertaking this style of work due to the planning, parts availability and scope of the work needed. Servicing and general repair enquiries are also welcomed for this era of vehicle.

Next up is another 1998 manufactured E series related project, so keep an eye out for that in the coming weeks.

Earlier this week we had a small project of ours completed and delivered.This has been in the works for a while, with th...
08/07/2026

Earlier this week we had a small project of ours completed and delivered.

This has been in the works for a while, with the theme based on a retro Ford Dealership sticker. Pat from TenTenths Creative did an excellent job in putting these together, in a few variations to suit different eras.

Whilst we may not be the first to do something in this style, we are really happy with the end result and can't wait to see them out and about.

If you are interested in them, please get in touch and we can organize it for you. They are $8 each, we can arrange postage for an additional fee if required.

The sizing is as follows:

297mmx40mm for the additional logo designs (1,2,3).

230x40mm for the single logo design (4).

There will be other variations based of our normal logo in the near future if that's more to your liking. More on those once they are completed.

Released in August of 1993, the ED Falcon had the shortest production run of any individual major model. Lasting only tw...
10/06/2026

Released in August of 1993, the ED Falcon had the shortest production run of any individual major model. Lasting only twelve months, the ED was a deliberate stopgap to counter Holden’s recently released and very popular VR Commodore. This also gave Ford the opportunity to prepare for the heavily updated EF Model that saw its release in August of 1994.

Whilst appearing to be a minor facelift of the preceding EBII model, there were 280 changes and improvements made. These included small cosmetic differences, a stronger body shell and improved side impact protection. The return of the Futura model, the quad headlight treatment on the XR models, TVE styling/suspension options and the limited edition XR8 Sprint were all notable mentions as well.

An example of an ED through our shop recently is this Fairmont finished in “Dynamic White”. Having travelled less than 74,000km, it is a very neat and original example, with many of the original decals and equipment still attached. It also retains some period correct modifications such as a CD stacker and phone holder.

The main issue that the Fairmont was presented with was centred around the ABS system, which was noted during a licensing inspection. Upon its initial arrival, we began to investigate this issue, along with identifying some other items that would require attention. The majority were typical age and wear related, others were minor fixes to assist with its roadworthiness.

On its second visit, the necessary repairs were performed to the ABS system, which certainly had its challenges. Some suspension items were replaced along with various fluids and filters. We also checked the vehicle over ensuring that all the various safety items were working properly and noted a couple of other items that would be advantageous to have done before presenting again for an inspection.

The Fairmont passed its next inspection without issue and is now registered again after a lengthy period of sitting idle. It is very pleasing to see this back in action, and it shows that there are still quality examples out there to be found.

For any enquiries on servicing or repairs to your project or enthusiast vehicle, contact us for further information and to book an appointment. There is a bit of an E series theme currently, with two more projects featuring in upcoming posts. So, keep an eye out for those in the coming weeks.

While our page features a lot of “Blue Oval” products, there is another brand with a similar style of badge that we work...
21/05/2026

While our page features a lot of “Blue Oval” products, there is another brand with a similar style of badge that we work on frequently, Subaru.

Established in Australia in 1973, Subaru has become a staple brand, with some iconic models released throughout the years. Brumby, Liberty, WRX, Forester and Outback are a few that come to mind. We see quite a range through the workshop, with many under new car warranties.

One example is this WRX Sportswagon, in for a 30,000km service. Despite its low mileage and recent dealership “service”, we still carried out a thorough inspection and service. The air and cabin filters were replaced with genuine items, along with the engine oil and filter. A diagnostic scan was performed, along with some other smaller tasks and finishing touches.

For servicing your Subaru performed with care and attention to detail, please get in touch to book your next appointment.

In January of 1951, Holden released the 50-2106 Coupe Utility, more commonly referred to as the "FX". While the concept ...
12/05/2026

In January of 1951, Holden released the 50-2106 Coupe Utility, more commonly referred to as the "FX". While the concept of the Ute wasn’t new at the time, Holden’s offering was incredibly popular. Displaying both increased performance and value compared to its rivals of the period, it was also designed for and made in Australia.

Spanning several generations and countless variants, the Holden Ute endured a lengthy production run, with only a brief pause between 1984-1990. With the end of local manufacturing in October of 2017, the final version was based on the VFII Commodore. The highlight of the range (Non HSV) was the LS3 powered SS variants, the SSV Redline being at the top of the list.

This particular VF II SS Ute (Black Edition) was recently acquired by our customer. After searching for one for a while, when this “Red Hot” automatic example was found, it was quickly snapped up. Having only travelled 9,000km, it presented well and was in very original condition.

Like any recent used vehicle purchase, it’s always beneficial to go through and perform an inspection to see the exact condition and address any potential issues or maintenance items. While it had been recently “serviced” by the dealership, we went through the SS front to back.

Along with the inspection, we cleaned the air and cabin filters, performed a diagnostic scan and flushed the brake system with new fluid. We also recommended some minor future items for replacement, but overall, there was very little to fault. It is pleasing to see a vehicle such as this being preserved, but still seeing use, as they should.

For any enquiries on an inspection such as this, or any other servicing and repairs. Please get in touch with us for further information.

Address

15 Laurence Road
Perth, WA
6076

Opening Hours

Monday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Tuesday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Wednesday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Thursday 7:30am - 5:30pm
Friday 7:30am - 5:30pm

Telephone

+61892918802

Website

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