Parts for your 1998 Ford Falcon-Universal joints

1998 Ford Falcon universal joints (uni joints): purpose, service and replacement

Drawing on the Ford Falcon AU Series Workshop Manual (Driveline—Tailshaft, Section 205-01), Gregory’s Ford Falcon AU 1998–2002 Service and Repair Manual, and Max Ellery’s Ford Falcon EF–EL Workshop Manual, 1998 Ford Falcon models (late EL and early AU) are rear-wheel drive and use a tailshaft fitted with serviceable universal joints (uni joints). Universal joints are therefore relevant and fitted to this vehicle.

On a ’98 Falcon, the uni joints sit at each end of the tailshaft, letting the shaft transmit power even as the gearbox and diff sit at slightly different angles and the rear suspension moves. They keep the drive smooth through bumps and body roll, while proper phasing of the joints helps avoid vibrations. Sedans and wagons often have a centre bearing supporting a two-piece tailshaft, but the uni joints still do the angular work at the ends.

When the uni joints wear, the Falcon can develop a clunk on take-off or shift, a shudder under load, or a buzzing vibration at highway kays. Rust-coloured dust around the caps, flicked-out seal needles, or any free play when the shaft is twisted by hand are red flags. Left too long, a failed joint can damage the tailshaft, transmission extension housing, or diff pinion.

• Listen for clunks and chirps on low-speed turns or gear changes.
• Check for vibration under acceleration and at steady cruise.
• Inspect for dried-out seals, red dust, or looseness in the cross.

Plenty of Falcons run sealed, non-greasable uni joints, if your tailshaft has grease nipples, a quality lithium-moly grease every service or 10,000–15,000 km is a safe bet. Don’t over-grease—just until clean grease purges from all four caps. At each service, a mechanic should check joint play, cap security, and tailshaft bolts, plus the centre bearing if fitted.

When it’s time to replace, marking the tailshaft and flange positions keeps the phasing and balance happy. Caps must not be dropped or contaminated, press or vice-fit the new joint carefully, seat the circlips fully, and ensure the cross pivots freely with no notchiness. Refit with the original orientation, tighten fasteners to workshop-manual torque, and consider a balance check—especially if the shaft has been apart or the centre bearing is fresh. A driveline specialist can rebuild the tailshaft with new uni joints, replace the centre bearing, and balance it so the Falcon runs smooth at motorway speeds.

Popular questions about 1998 Ford Falcon universal joints

Do 1998 Ford Falcons use uni joints or CVs on the tailshaft?
Yes—1998 Falcon EL/AU models use universal joints on the tailshaft. Some later Falcons introduced different arrangements (such as flex discs or CVs), but the ’98 cars retain conventional uni joints front and rear of the tailshaft, with a centre bearing on many body styles.

How often should the uni joints be serviced or checked?
Have them checked at every service. If your joints are greasable, a light grease every 10,000–15,000 km works well. Sealed joints just need periodic inspection for play, noise, or dusting. Any clunk, vibration, or visible wear is the cue to replace.

Is it safe to drive with a noisy or vibrating uni joint?
Not for long. A worn uni joint can let go suddenly, potentially damaging the tailshaft, gearbox yoke, or diff. If there’s noise or vibration that points to a uni joint, it’s wise to book the Falcon in promptly.