Vauxhall VX/490 (FE) (1972-78)

The **Vauxhall VX/490 FE series** had a few common issues reported by owners:

1. **Rust**: Like many cars from that era, rust was a significant problem. The VX/490 was prone to rusting, especially in vulnerable areas such as the wheel arches, sills, and floor pans.

2. **Electrical Gremlins**: Electrical issues were not uncommon. Problems with wiring, switches, and connections could lead to various malfunctions.

3. **Fuel System**: Some VX/490s experienced fuel system problems, including carburetor issues and fuel leaks.

4. **Suspension and Steering**: Components like ball joints, tie rods, and suspension bushings could wear out, affecting handling and ride quality.

5. **Cooling System**: Overheating was a concern. Regular maintenance of the cooling system was essential.

Remember that these issues can vary from car to car, so thorough inspections and proper maintenance are crucial for keeping the VX/490 on the road.
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Generations
The **Vauxhall VX/490** had a few generations during its production years:

1. **FE Series (1972–1978)**: The VX/490 FE series was the last Vauxhall designed independently of Opel. It featured a 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine and distinctive styling. Only 943 examples were produced¹.

2. **FC Series (1961–1964)**: The original VX 4/90 debuted in 1961 as a sporting version of the FB-series Victor. It added 15 bhp via twin carburettors and a high-compression version of the 1507cc engine⁴.

Both generations contributed to the VX/490's legacy, with the FE series being the final chapter in this line of Vauxhall sporting cars.
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Body Style/Variant
The **Vauxhall FE Series** had a few versions during its production years:

1. **Victor 1800 and 2300 saloons and estates**
2. **Ventora saloon**
3. **VX4/90 saloon**
4. **Limited editions**: These included the Ventora VIP, Transcontinental ES saloon, and 2300S saloon.

The FE Series evolved over time, with constant improvements making it increasingly competitive.
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Trim Levels
The Vauxhall FE Series, produced from 1972 to 1978, had several trim levels:

1. **Victor 1800** (Saloon and Estate)
2. **Victor 2300** (Saloon and Estate)
3. **Victor 3300SL Estate** (re-badged as the Ventora Estate for 1974)
4. **VX4/90** (Saloon)
5. **Ventora** (Saloon)

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Engines
The **Vauxhall FE Series** featured a range of engines during its production years:

1. **Slant-Four Engines**:
- **1759cc**: The entry-level model.
- **2279cc**: Used in the VX/490 FE series for improved performance.

2. **Six-Cylinder Engine**:
- The older six-cylinder engine was dropped from the range during the FE series.

These engines contributed to the FE's character and performance.
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Spares
If you're looking for **Vauxhall FE Series spares** in the United Kingdom and Ireland, here are some options:

1. **Vauxhall Parts Direct**: They stock a wide selection of **genuine Vauxhall parts** across the entire Vauxhall vehicle range. You can find the parts you need, and they come with a Vauxhall parts warranty¹.

2. **McMullan Autobreakers (Northern Ireland)**: A family-run auto breakers specializing in **new and used Vauxhall parts**. They offer delivery throughout Ireland and the UK³.

Remember to verify compatibility based on your specific FE Series model.
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Specialists
**NORTHERN IRELAND VAUXHALL SPECIALIST LIST**

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Antrim, Northern Ireland:
1. McMillan Specialist Cars
o Address: Unit 10, Plasketts Close Kilbegs Road, Antrim BT41 4NN
o Phone: 028 9335 4911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website
2. Wilsons of Rathkenny
o Address: 371 Cushendall Road, Ballymena BT43 6QB
o Phone: 028 2175 8177
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Townparks Car Sales Antrim
o Address: Springfarm Industrial Estate, Antrim BT41 4NZ
o Phone: 028 9446 2506
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 12:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Armagh, Northern Ireland:
1. NI Vans
o Address: 1 Ashtree Hill, Craigavon BT62 2LH
o Phone: 028 3884 9777
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 - 17:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. McMullan Auto Services
o Address: 2 Moy Road, Armagh BT61 8DL
o Phone: 028 3752 2911
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Down, Northern Ireland:
1. Ballyrobert Vauxhall
o Address: 402 Bangor Road, Bangor BT19 1UE
o Phone: 028 9127 2701
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Donnelly Group
o Address: 62 Boucher Road, Belfast BT12 6LR
o Phone: 028 9038 1729
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland:
1. Lochside Garages
o Address: 101 Irvinestown Road, Enniskillen BT74 6GQ
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. Higgins Autos
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 028 6632 4366
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland:
Lloyd Cooke Motors
o Address: 53 Lismacarol Road, Londonderry BT47 3LZ
o Phone: 028 7130 2100
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 18:00, Saturday 09:00 - 14:00
o Website
2. ClickMechanic
o Service: Mobile mechanics available throughout Northern Ireland
o Phone: 020 3322 9988
o Hours: Varies by mechanic
o Website
3. Donnelly Group
o Address: Maydown Carrakeel Drive, Maydown, Derry/Londonderry BT47 6UQ
o Phone: 028 7122 6386
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday by appointment only
o Website

Here are some Vauxhall specialist mechanics in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland:
1. Donnelly Group
o Address: 59 Moy Road, Dungannon BT71 7DT
o Phone: 028 8772 2887
o Hours: Monday to Friday 08:30 - 17:30, Saturday 09:00 - 13:00
o Website
2. McMullan Autobreakers
o Address: 15 Melmount Road, Sion Mills, Strabane BT82 9ET
o Phone: 028 8165 9500
o Hours: Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:00
o Website
3. Approved Garages
o Service: Network of approved garages across Northern Ireland
o Phone: 0845 305 4230
o Hours: Varies by location
o Website
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Racing

Bill Blydenstein was a well-known figure in the world of Vauxhall tuning and motorsport. His VX4/90 was particularly famous in the caravan racing scene. Here are some key points about his VX4/90:

- **Caravan Racing Champion**: Blydenstein's VX4/90 won the caravan racing championship both times it was contested. Caravan racing involved towing a caravan around a race track, which added a unique challenge to the race.
- **Performance Modifications**: Blydenstein was known for his tuning expertise, and his VX4/90 was no exception. The car was modified for better performance, making it competitive in the races.
- **Legacy**: Blydenstein's work with Vauxhall cars, including the VX4/90, left a lasting impact on the brand's motorsport history. His tuning company, Blydenstein Racing, became synonymous with high-performance Vauxhalls.