Parts for your 2000 Ford Falcon-Driveshafts

2000 Ford Falcon driveshafts

Driveshafts are absolutely relevant on the 2000 Ford Falcon (AU Series). Technical sources including the Ford Falcon AU Series Workshop Manual and Gregory’s Service & Repair Manual (Falcon AU 1998–2002) describe a rear‑wheel‑drive layout that uses a propeller shaft (tailshaft) between the transmission and the rear differential. On models with independent rear suspension (IRS), there are also rear CV half‑shafts from the diff to each wheel, live‑axle models rely on the tailshaft plus the solid axle. Either way, the AU Falcon runs a driveshaft system.

On this Falcon, the tailshaft’s job is to send torque from the BTR 4‑speed auto or manual gearbox to the rear end smoothly and without vibration. Most sedans and wagons use a two‑piece tailshaft with a centre support bearing and universal joints (uni joints) at each end. Those joints allow for suspension and driveline movement while keeping things quiet and balanced at highway speeds. Keeping the shaft straight, true and well‑supported is key to stopping shudder under load and that annoying drone at 80–110 km/h.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the tailshaft and (if fitted) rear CVs a once‑over. Look for red dust around the uni joints, perished centre‑bearing rubber, dented tubing, missing balance weights, or weeping diff/gearbox seals that can wash out grease. A clunk on take‑up, a squeak at low speed, or a vibration that changes with road speed are classic tells the driveline needs attention.

• Inspect uni joints for free play, replace if binding, notchy, or loose. Many AU joints are sealed, if yours are greaseable, give them a pump with quality grease at service time.
• Check the centre support bearing: cracked rubber or rumble under load means replacement time.
• Mark flange positions before removal so the shaft goes back in the same orientation, that helps preserve balance.
• If the shaft is separated or any joints are replaced, get it dynamically balanced by a driveline specialist.
• Use new hardware or threadlocker and tighten to the workshop manual specs, recheck after a short shakedown drive.
• When removing the tailshaft from an auto, plug the gearbox tail housing to prevent fluid loss.

For IRS Falcons, also inspect CV boots for splits and listen for clicking on turns, replace worn CVs promptly to avoid collateral damage. Following the factory procedures in the Ford AU Workshop Manual will keep the big Falcon smooth, quiet and happy on long Aussie and Kiwi runs.

Does every 2000 AU Falcon have a tailshaft and CV axles?

All AU Falcons have a tailshaft. Only IRS‑equipped variants (found on many Fairmonts and some XR models) add rear CV half‑shafts. Live‑axle models don’t use separate rear CVs.

What are common signs the AU Falcon tailshaft or uni joints are worn?

Drivers often notice a clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, a squeak at car‑park speeds, or a vibration that comes in around 80–110 km/h. Visual giveaways include rusty dust at the uni caps, a torn centre‑bearing mount, or a dented tube.

How often should the driveshaft be serviced?

Have it inspected at every routine service. Grease any greaseable uni joints, check the centre bearing and flange bolts, and look over CV boots on IRS cars. If parts are replaced or the shaft is split, have the assembly rebalanced before hitting the road.