Parts for your 1997 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

1997 Ford Falcon steering bushes

Technical sources confirm steering bushes are fitted to the 1997 Ford Falcon (EL series). The Ford EL Falcon Workshop Manual specifies a power-assisted rack-and-pinion mounted to the front crossmember via rubber bushes, while common service references such as Gregory’s EF–EL manual and Ellery’s EF–EL guide detail inspection and replacement. Aftermarket catalogues from Nolathane and SuperPro list “steering rack mounting bush kits” for EA–EL Falcons, which further verifies their use on the 1997 model.

On this Falcon, the steering rack bushes cushion and locate the rack on the K-frame, controlling movement under load and filtering vibration through the wheel. When they’re healthy, the car tracks straight, the wheel returns nicely after corners, and there’s less kickback on rough roads. When they’re tired, the rack can shift fore–aft or side to side, giving vague steering, a clunk over bumps, or a tendency to wander and tramline. Oil-soaked bushes (from power steering or engine leaks) soften and split faster, so any fluid leaks should be fixed promptly.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the rack bushes every 20,000 km or annually. Look for cracks, deformation, or shiny witness marks where the rack housing has been moving. A helper can rock the steering wheel while someone watches or gently levers the rack housing, visible movement at the mounts means the bushes are due.

Replacement is straightforward for a competent home mechanic with stands and a torque wrench, though many owners prefer a workshop. Expect 1–2 hours plus a wheel alignment afterwards, as any rack disturbance affects toe. Two bush materials are common: OEM-style rubber for factory comfort and isolation, or polyurethane for sharper response and durability. Poly can transmit a touch more road feel, which some drivers prefer. Always replace bushes as a set, support the rack properly, align the locating sleeves, and torque fasteners at normal ride height to avoid preloading.

While the rack is out or loosened, it pays to check inner and outer tie-rod ends, column uni joints, and the front control arm and radius rod bushes. Keeping the whole front end tight lets the Falcon steer the way it should.

• Typical symptoms: steering clunk over potholes, vague on-centre feel, wandering, irregular front tyre wear.
• Service tips: fix fluid leaks first, choose bush material to suit comfort vs response, book a post-repair alignment.

Popular questions

Do 1997 Ford Falcons actually have steering rack bushes?
Yes. The EL Falcon mounts its rack-and-pinion to the front crossmember using bushes. Factory manuals and major aftermarket catalogues list these parts specifically for the EA–EL range, including 1997 models.

How often should the steering bushes be replaced on a 1997 Falcon?
There’s no fixed interval, as it depends on driving conditions, fluid exposure, and tyre load. Many owners find inspection at every service and replacement somewhere between 120,000–200,000 km is typical, sooner if there’s oil contamination or heavy city use.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for an EL Falcon—what’s better?
Rubber keeps the factory ride and isolation, while polyurethane sharpens steering feel and generally lasts longer. For a daily driver prioritising comfort, rubber is fine. For a sportier feel and crisp response, polyurethane is a solid choice.