Parts for your 1999 Ford Falcon-Strut mounts

1999 Ford Falcon strut-mounts — are they used?

Short answer: strut-mounts aren’t a thing on a 1999 Ford Falcon (AU Series). The AU front end doesn’t use a MacPherson strut, so there’s no rotating strut top with a bearing to replace. Technical references like the Ford AU Falcon Workshop Manual (front suspension section) and independent service guides for AU Series models describe a double wishbone (SLA) front suspension. Steering pivoting happens through the upper and lower ball joints on the knuckle, while the shock absorber mounts to the body with a simple rubber isolator bush — not a strut mount assembly.

Because the AU’s shock doesn’t act as a structural strut and doesn’t turn with the steering, a conventional strut-mount/bearing is not fitted. Gregory’s/Max Ellery’s AU Falcon repair manuals and Ford service literature back this up: they list shock absorber upper bushes/insulators and control arm bushes as service items, but not a strut top mount. If someone’s trying to sell “1999 Ford Falcon strut-mounts”, they’re likely mixing it up with MacPherson-strut vehicles or using the term loosely for the shock’s upper bush.

Chasing a front-end knock, shimmy, or creak on an AU? These are the usual suspects to inspect and service instead of “strut-mounts”:

• Front shock absorber upper bushes/insulators and washers
• Upper and lower control arm bushes (including the large rear LCA bush)
• Upper and lower ball joints
• Sway bar D-bushes and link rods
• Front wheel bearings and tyre condition/balance

When replacing front shocks, fit new upper bushes and ensure the washers are oriented correctly, over-tightening can crush the bush and cause harshness, under-tightening can leave a clunk. If the Falcon has seen Aussie or Kiwi roads for a couple of hundred thousand kays, budget for control arm bushes and ball joints — they make a bigger difference to steering feel than any supposed “strut-mount”.

Parts-buying tip: search for “front shock absorber upper mount/bush kit” or “spring seat insulator” for AU Falcon, not “strut top”. Keeping to AU-specific suspension parts avoids ordering gear that simply doesn’t fit your 1999 Falcon.

Popular questions about 1999 Ford Falcon strut-mounts

Does a 1999 Ford Falcon have strut-mounts?

No. The AU Falcon runs a double wishbone (SLA) front suspension, so there’s no MacPherson strut and no strut top bearing. The shock uses a simple rubber upper bush to isolate noise and vibration.

What should be replaced instead of strut-mounts on an AU Falcon?

Focus on front shock upper bushes, upper and lower control arm bushes, ball joints, and sway bar bushes/links. These are the common wear items that cause knocks, steering shimmy, or vague turn-in on AU models.

How can you tell if the front shock upper bush is worn on a 1999 Falcon?

Look for a thud over sharp bumps, visible cracking or mushrooming of the rubber, or a loose top nut. With the car safely supported, you may feel excess play at the top of the shock. If in doubt, replace the bush kit when fitting new shocks.