Parts for your 1996 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

1996 Ford Falcon steering bushes

Steering bushes are absolutely relevant on the 1996 Ford Falcon (EF II/EL and XH ute). Ford’s EF/EL workshop literature and well-known repair manuals (Gregory’s and Ellery’s) describe a rack‑and‑pinion steering gear mounted to the front crossmember via insulators/bushes. Aftermarket catalogues from Nolathane and SuperPro also list steering rack mounting bush kits for these Falcons, confirming the part is fitted from factory and serviceable.

On a ’96 Falcon, the steering rack mounting bushes do the quiet, important work of locating the rack securely while isolating vibration and road harshness from the cabin. Over time, the original rubber can soften, crack, or swell—especially if it’s been bathed in power steering fluid—leading to a vague on-centre feel, shudder through the wheel, and clunks when turning or braking.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect the bushes every 20,000–30,000 km or whenever the front end is up on stands. Look for: cracks or missing chunks in the rubber, shiny metal or elongated holes around the rack brackets, and any oil contamination from a weeping pump, hoses, or rack. With the engine off, have a mate rock the steering wheel while watching the rack—excess lateral movement is a giveaway the bushes are tired.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent DIYer with axle stands, a decent socket set, and a torque wrench, though a workshop lift makes life easier. Support the rack, undo the mounting bolts, swap the bushes (noting orientation), and torque everything to the factory spec from the manual. Always book a wheel alignment afterwards, even small shifts can nudge toe out of spec and chew tyres. If the Falcon sees rough roads or towing, consider quality polyurethane bushes—they sharpen steering response and resist oil, though they can transmit a touch more road feel than rubber.

While you’re there, it pays to check related wear items:

• Inner and outer tie rod ends for play or split boots
• Lower control arm and sway bar bushes for cracking
• Steering shaft lower coupling for slop
• Power steering leaks that might quickly ruin fresh bushes

Done right, new steering bushes restore that tight, confident Falcon steering feel and keep the front end quiet on Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions

What are the signs the 1996 Falcon’s steering rack bushes are worn?
Common signs include a clunk when turning or braking, a vague or wandering feel on the motorway, and steering wheel shudder over bumps. You might also spot the rack shifting on its mounts while someone gently oscillates the wheel with the engine off. If there’s power steering fluid around the rack, assume the bushes will degrade faster.

Can these bushes be replaced at home?
Yes, if comfortable working under the car and following the factory manual. Support the vehicle safely, support the rack, replace the bushes one side at a time, and tighten to the specified torque from the EF/EL manual. Finish with a professional wheel alignment to keep tyre wear even and steering straight.

Rubber or polyurethane—what’s best for a ’96 Falcon?
Rubber keeps the factory comfort and isolation, great for daily duties. Polyurethane resists oil and heat better and firms up steering feel, which suits performance or heavy-duty use. Either is fine—pick based on how the car’s driven and personal preference for steering feedback.