Parts for your 1997 Ford Falcon-Exhaust mount

1997 Ford Falcon exhaust mount

Based on technical references including the Ford EL Falcon factory workshop manual (1996–1998), Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for Ford Falcon 1994–1998, and Ford dealer parts catalogues for the EL series, the 1997 Ford Falcon absolutely uses exhaust mounts (also called hangers or insulators). These rubber isolators are specified at several points along the system to support the pipes and mufflers while controlling vibration and clearance.

On the 1997 Falcon, the exhaust mounts keep the system suspended under the car, stopping metal-on-metal contact and preventing the exhaust from loading up the manifold, catalytic converter, and joints. They also set the height and angle of the mufflers and tailpipe so the system clears the floorpan, diff, towbar, and bumper. The mounts are typically rubber “donut” or strap types attached to welded hangers on the exhaust and brackets on the body. Whether it’s the six or the V8, sedan, wagon, or ute, the layout uses multiple mounts from the front section through to the rear muffler.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to inspect these mounts because heat, age, road grime, and oil contamination harden or crack the rubber. When they stretch or split, the exhaust can sag, rattle, or thump over bumps. Replacing them is a straightforward driveway job: support the exhaust with a jack and block of wood, spritz the old rubbers with silicone spray, lever them off, and slip on quality replacements. Keep the original geometry where possible, going too short or too stiff can introduce drone or cabin buzz.

• Common symptoms of tired mounts: exhaust knocks on start-up/shut-down, rattles at idle, a droopy tailpipe, or a metallic clunk over speed humps.
• Risks of ignoring them: cracked welds, strained flex joints and manifold studs, damaged O2 sensor wiring, heatshield contact, and potential WOF/reg inspection issues.
• Good practice: check at every service or 10,000 km, replace in pairs where practical, and inspect the brackets for rust. After fitting, confirm clearances around the fuel tank, brake lines, and bumper, then road test for knocks.

Choosing parts: OEM-style EPDM rubber keeps the factory feel and isolation. Polyurethane hangers are tougher but can transmit more vibration—fine for performance setups, less ideal for a quiet daily. In coastal or high-heat conditions, quality material pays off with longer life.

Popular questions

How many exhaust mounts does a 1997 Ford Falcon have?
Most EL-series Falcons run three to four mounts depending on body style and exhaust layout. A typical six-cylinder sedan has a front/centre mount near the cat or front muffler, a mid hanger, and one or two at the rear muffler/tailpipe. Wagons and utes may use an extra rear hanger to keep the longer tail section stable.

Exact count can vary with aftermarket systems. When replacing, visually confirm each location along the system and check the condition of the metal hangers welded to the pipes.

Rubber vs polyurethane—what’s best for an EL Falcon?
Rubber mounts match factory isolation and ride comfort, which most daily drivers prefer. Polyurethane is firmer and resists heat and sagging longer, but it can feed a bit more vibration and exhaust “presence” into the cabin.

If the goal is OE refinement, choose quality EPDM rubber. For heavy towing or performance setups where clearance and control matter, polyurethane can be a solid upgrade.

Is it safe to drive with a broken exhaust mount?
Short answer: it’s risky. A sagging system can hit the body, strain the manifold and flex joint, crack welds, or melt nearby components. It’s also more likely to drone, rattle, or get pinged for noise.

If a mount fails, support the exhaust and sort it promptly. It’s a quick fix that can save bigger repair bills down the track.