Parts for your 1996 Ford Falcon-Gas struts

1996 Ford Falcon gas struts: what’s fitted and how to look after them

Based on the Ford EF/EL Workshop Manual (Body—Wagon Liftgate), Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for EF–EL, and Ford parts catalogues used in AU/NZ dealerships, gas-charged lift supports are factory-fitted to the rear liftgate on 1996 Ford Falcon wagons. The EF/EL sedan uses torsion bars for the boot lid and a prop rod for the bonnet, so there are no factory gas struts in those spots. XH ute tailgates also don’t use gas struts unless there’s a canopy with a lift-up window.

For Falcon wagon owners, the tailgate gas struts do the heavy lifting, taking the weight of the glass and frame so the hatch opens smoothly and stays put overhead. They’re nitrogen-charged with a little oil for damping, giving a controlled rise and a steady hold so there’s no head-bonking drama at the shops or on the job. Over time, seals harden and a bit of gas bleeds off, especially in colder climates or if the car lives outdoors, and the struts lose grunt.

Good servicing habits keep things sweet. Wipe the shiny shafts with a clean, dry cloth—no grease or silicone on the shafts, as that attracts grit and can nick the seals. If the glass has been replaced or accessories added to the hatch (extra weight), consider uprated struts to suit. Most wagon owners will see 5–10 years from a set, but coastal exposure or high use can shorten that.

Signs it’s time to swap them out:

• Tailgate won’t stay up, sags in wind, or rises lazily.
• You need two hands to lift it, or it drops the last bit when closing.
• Oil misting around the rod ends or obvious corrosion.

Replacement is a quick DIY if you’re handy. Support the hatch safely with a prop or grab a mate. Pop the spring clips at each end with a small flat-blade, slide the old struts off, then click the new ones on—one side at a time. Always replace in pairs so the hatch lifts evenly. After fitting, cycle the tailgate a few times to bed the joints and check for smooth travel and full hold. Never heat, drill, or crush old struts—they’re pressurised. Dispose of them properly through your local parts or recycling outlet.

If you’ve got a 1996 Falcon sedan and were hunting for “gas struts” for the boot or bonnet, that’s why nothing matches—those systems are torsion-bar and prop-rod by design. Upgrades exist in the aftermarket, but they’re not OE.

FAQs

Do 1996 Ford Falcon sedans have gas struts on the boot or bonnet?
No. EF/EL sedans use torsion bars for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet, so there are no factory gas struts in those positions. The wagon’s rear liftgate is the model with gas struts.

How long do Falcon wagon tailgate gas struts usually last?
Typically 5–10 years, depending on climate, use, and storage. Cold weather and coastal conditions can speed up seal wear and gas loss. Replace when the hatch won’t hold itself up or feels heavy.

Can a home mechanic replace the wagon tailgate struts?
Yes. With a safe prop, small screwdriver, and basic care, it’s a 10–20 minute job. Swap them in pairs and don’t grease the shafts—keep them clean and dry.