Parts for your 1999 Ford Falcon-Steering bushes

1999 Ford Falcon steering-bushes: what they do and how to look after them

Technical sources confirm steering-bushes are absolutely relevant to the 1999 Ford Falcon (AU Series). The Ford AU Falcon Workshop Manual (1998–2002, Steering—Rack and Pinion), Gregory’s Falcon AU 1998–2002 Service & Repair Manual, and common aftermarket catalogues (e.g., Nolathane and SuperPro rack-and-pinion mounting bush kits for AU models) all specify rack mounting bushes. That makes steering-bushes a fitted and serviceable item on the 1999 Falcon.

On the 1999 Falcon, the steering-bushes sit between the rack-and-pinion housing and the front crossmember (K-frame). Their job is to locate the rack precisely while isolating road harshness and vibration from the cabin. Healthy bushes keep the rack where it should be under cornering and braking loads, which helps maintain steering feel, on-centre stability, and consistent wheel alignment.

When these bushes age, compress, or oil-soak, the rack can shift slightly under load. Drivers may notice a vague on-centre feel, a clunk over sharp bumps, or a twitch under braking. Tyre wear can creep in too, especially feathering.

• Common signs: clunks, vague steering, steering shimmy, uneven or feathered tyres, and visible cracks or deformation in the bushes.
• Contributing factors: power-steering fluid leaks softening rubber, repeated kerb strikes, and high-kilometre use.

For servicing a 1999 Ford Falcon steering-bushes, a quick visual at each service is smart, with a more thorough check every 20,000–30,000 km. If replacement’s on the cards, owners typically choose between OE-style rubber (quiet, supple) and polyurethane (sharper response, slightly more road feel). Replace bushes as a set so the rack locates evenly. Always address any power-steering leaks first, fresh bushes won’t last if they’re bathed in fluid.

During replacement, support the vehicle securely, keep the steering wheel centred, and torque the rack mounts to workshop spec with the suspension at normal ride height to avoid preloading. A wheel alignment is recommended afterwards. It’s also wise to inspect related items—inner and outer tie rod ends, lower control arm bushes, and sway bar links—while the front end is accessible. Avoid mixing bush materials side-to-side, and use the supplied sleeves or new hardware if the kit specifies it.

Unlike older recirculating-ball systems, the AU Falcon doesn’t run an idler arm, here, “steering-bushes” mainly means the rack mounting bushes (plus a small column support bush in some setups). Keeping them in shape preserves steering precision and tyre life, and keeps the big Aussie sedan feeling properly tied down.

Popular questions about 1999 Ford Falcon steering-bushes

Do 1999 Falcons use steering-bushes or an idler arm?
They use rack-and-pinion steering with rack mounting bushes—no idler arm. The bushes secure the rack to the crossmember and control movement under load, which is why they’re a wear item on AU Falcons.

How often should steering-bushes be replaced on a 1999 Falcon?
There’s no fixed kilometre rule. Many last well past 100,000 km, but Aussie and Kiwi road conditions, fluid leaks, and tyre/wheel setups can shorten life. Regular inspection at each service and replacement at the first signs of movement, cracking, or steering play is the sensible approach.

Rubber or polyurethane bushes for the AU Falcon rack—what’s better?
Rubber keeps the factory refinement and isolates noise well. Polyurethane tightens response and steering accuracy, with a touch more road feel. Daily drivers often stay rubber, enthusiasts chasing sharper turn-in tend to pick poly. The right choice depends on the balance of comfort versus precision.