Parts for your 1997 Ford Falcon-Gas struts

1997 Ford Falcon gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Technical sources agree that gas struts are relevant to the 1997 Ford Falcon wagon, but not to the sedan’s boot or the bonnet on most trims. The Ford EL Falcon Workshop Manual (Body section) and Gregory’s Service and Repair Manual for EF–EL models note a prop-rod bonnet and torsion-rod boot on sedans, while the wagon’s rear liftgate uses gas-charged lift supports. Aftermarket catalogues such as Monroe Max-Lift and Stabilus for AU/NZ also list tailgate gas springs for EF/EL wagons (10/1994–08/1998), confirming factory fitment at the rear of the wagon.

On the EL Falcon wagon, the gas struts carry the tailgate’s weight, control its opening speed, and hold it safely overhead. That keeps the hinges and body mounts happier and saves shoulders and backs from doing the heavy lifting. When they’re tired, the gate can sag, slam, or refuse to stay up—especially on a cold Wellington morning or a frosty Ballarat start.

Servicing is pretty low-fuss. Keep the chrome shafts clean, don’t paint them, and avoid petroleum grease—if needed, a light silicone wipe is fine. Check the ball studs and brackets for looseness or rust, and always replace gas struts in pairs so the tailgate lifts evenly. Expect a typical life of 5–10 years depending on climate and use.

• Common signs they’re due: tailgate drops or won’t stay up, slow lift in cold weather, oily film around the seals, or knocking at the mounts.
• Quick test: open the tailgate halfway and let go carefully—if it dives or won’t hold, they’re weak.

1. Support the tailgate with a prop or a mate before removing any clips.
2. Pop off the retaining clips, swap one side at a time, and avoid twisting the rod.
3. Torque the mounts, check alignment, then cycle the gate a few times to confirm smooth action.

If you’ve got a 1997 Falcon sedan, you won’t find gas struts on the boot or bonnet. Ford used torsion bars for the boot to save space and weight, and a simple prop rod for the bonnet for cost, reliability, and service access. Aftermarket bonnet-strut kits exist, but they’re not OEM for EL sedans.

Popular questions about 1997 Ford Falcon gas struts

Do 1997 Ford Falcon sedans have gas struts?
Not from factory. The EL sedan uses a prop rod for the bonnet and torsion bars for the boot. Only the wagon’s rear liftgate runs gas-charged struts per the factory manuals and parts catalogues.

How long do EL Falcon wagon tailgate struts last?
Typically 5–10 years. Heat, cold, dust, and frequent use shorten their life. Replace both sides together for even lift and proper sealing of the tailgate.

Can bonnet gas struts be retrofitted to an EL sedan?
Yes, with aftermarket kits that add brackets and struts. It’s not an OEM setup, so choose a reputable kit, follow instructions carefully, and double-check bonnet clearances.