Parts for your 1998 Ford Falcon-Rack boots

1998 Ford Falcon Rack Boots

Rack boots are relevant and fitted to the 1998 Ford Falcon. The EL (early 1998) and AU (launched late 1998) Falcons use a rack-and-pinion steering assembly with protective bellows on each end of the rack housing—commonly called rack boots or steering rack gaiters. This is documented in the Ford AU Falcon Workshop Manual (Steering — Power Rack and Pinion, Section 211-02) and widely covered in Australian service guides such as Gregory’s Ford Falcon AU 1998–2002 manual. Ford’s parts catalogues also list the “boot, steering gear” for these models. So, for anyone servicing a 1998 Falcon, rack boots absolutely apply.

On a 1998 Falcon, the rack boots do a simple but crucial job: they keep grit and water off the inner tie rods and the ends of the steering rack, while also containing grease and the small amount of air movement as the rack slides side to side. If a boot splits, road grime and moisture can chew out the inner tie-rod ball sockets and potentially allow power steering fluid to track into places it shouldn’t. Left too long, that can turn into sloppy steering, uneven tyre wear, and a bigger repair bill.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to eyeball both boots at every service or at least every 10,000–15,000 km. Look for perishing, oiliness, cracking around the folds, or clamps that have loosened. If a boot is torn, replace it promptly—ideally in pairs. When a boot has failed, it’s also worth checking the inner tie rods for play and the rack ends for corrosion. Fresh grease under the new boot (where specified) and new clamps are a must. If any power steering fluid is found inside a boot, that can point to an internal rack seal issue and warrants further inspection.

Replacement isn’t usually a big drama for a competent tech: the outer tie-rod end comes off, the old boot slides away, and the new boot is fitted with the correct orientation and clamps. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards, because cracking those tie-rod end locknuts can nudge toe settings. Using quality parts and correct boot length is important so the bellows don’t bind lock-to-lock. A quick road test to confirm smooth, quiet steering finishes the job nicely.

• Check at each service: cracks, tears, oiliness, loose clamps.
• Replace torn boots promptly, inspect inner tie rods at the same time.
• Use correct-length boots and new clamps, get a wheel alignment after.

FAQs

How often should the rack boots be checked on a 1998 Ford Falcon?
They should be visually checked at every service or about every 10,000–15,000 km. Falcons often live busy lives on Aussie and Kiwi roads, so heat, grime, and UV can age the rubber. Early detection of small cracks or weeping saves the inner tie rods and keeps the steering tight.

What are the tell-tale signs a rack boot has failed?
Look for a visible split, grease flung onto the lower control arm or crossmember, or a boot that’s collapsed and oily. If steering feels loose or there’s uneven tyre wear, a torn boot may have already let dirt in and worn the inner tie rod. Any power steering fluid inside the boot needs attention soon.

Do you need a wheel alignment after replacing rack boots?
Yes, it’s strongly recommended. Even if the outer tie-rod end goes back on close to its original position, small differences can alter toe. An alignment keeps the Falcon tracking straight and protects the tyres.