Parts for your 1998 Ford Falcon-Driveshafts

1998 Ford Falcon driveshafts (tailshafts): purpose, service and replacement

Yes, the 1998 Ford Falcon uses a driveshaft — commonly called a tailshaft in Australia and New Zealand. Technical guides such as the Ford Falcon EF–EL and AU Series workshop manuals, plus Gregory’s and Ellery’s repair manuals for EL (1996–1998) and AU (1998–2002), all detail tailshaft/propeller shaft components, universal joints and centre bearings, confirming the part is fitted across 1998 Falcons (EL late series and AU Series I). On AU models with IRS, rear CV half‑shafts are also used.

The tailshaft’s job is to transfer torque from the gearbox to the rear differential smoothly and reliably. In the Falcon it’s a robust unit, typically one or two pieces depending on body style, with uni joints at each end and, on many variants, a centre support bearing. Good condition here means crisp take‑offs, minimal driveline lash, and no nasty vibrations at highway speeds.

• Common symptoms to watch: a knock or clunk on shift or take‑off, shudder under load, a buzz or vibration at certain speeds, weeping rust‑coloured dust from uni joints, or a torn centre bearing mount.
• For AU IRS cars, split or greasy CV boots on the rear half‑shafts point to failing joints.

As part of routine servicing, it’s smart to inspect the tailshaft every 20,000–30,000 km or annually. Check uni joints for play and binding, feel the centre bearing for roughness, and look for missing balance weights or dented tubing. Most factory uni joints are sealed, if yours are greaseable aftermarket units, give them a light pump of the right grease. Also confirm engine and transmission mounts are sound, as failed mounts can mimic tailshaft issues.

Replacement tips: mark the flanges before removal to maintain phasing, use new flange bolts with thread locker, and torque to the workshop spec. If the centre bearing rubber is cracked, replace it and have the shaft balanced. Persistent vibration after new joints often means the shaft needs professional balancing or pinion angle needs checking. On AU IRS models, renew any damaged CV boots promptly to save the half‑shafts.

Look after the tailshaft and it’ll keep the Falcon’s rear‑drive character feeling tight and drama‑free, whether it’s an EL runout or a fresh AU Series I.

Popular questions

What are the signs my 1998 Falcon tailshaft is failing?
Drivers usually notice a clunk on take‑off, shudder under load, or a speed‑specific vibration. On inspection, uni joints may feel notchy or loose, and the centre bearing rubber can be torn. AU IRS cars might also show split CV boots and grease sling around the rear.

Can an EL and an AU Falcon use the same tailshaft?
Not reliably. Lengths, flange patterns, centre bearing setups and gearbox/diff combinations differ across models and body styles. Always match to the exact series, transmission, and body type, or use part numbers/measurements before fitting.

Is it safe to drive with a vibrating tailshaft?
Best avoided. Vibration can escalate, damaging uni joints, the centre bearing, gearbox output seal, and even the diff. If there’s noticeable shake, get it inspected and balanced or repaired before it turns into a bigger (and pricier) drama.