Parts for your 2000 Ford Falcon-Gas struts

2000 Ford Falcon gas struts — what they do and when to replace them

Based on the Ford AU Series II workshop manual, Ford Microcat parts catalogues, and common aftermarket parts listings (Stabilus/Monroe), the 2000 Ford Falcon wagon is factory-fitted with gas-charged liftgate struts for the rear tailgate. The sedan uses torsion rods for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet, so it doesn’t have factory gas struts in those spots. Ute canopies and hard lids may use gas struts as accessories. So, gas struts are definitely relevant to the 2000 Falcon wagon (and to certain accessory setups on other body styles).

On the AU wagon, gas struts do the heavy lifting of the tailgate. Charged with nitrogen and a dab of oil for damping, they counterbalance the weight of the hatch so it opens smoothly and stays put without a wobble. When they’re healthy, the tailgate pops up confidently and holds at full height, when they’re tired, it sags, creaks, or slowly drops — not ideal on a windy arvo.

As part of regular servicing, it’s smart to give the struts a quick once-over. Wipe the shafts clean, check the end fittings for play, and look for any oil misting around the seals. Don’t lubricate the chrome shafts — oils and silicone sprays can attract grit and damage the seals. If performance is marginal in cold weather or the tailgate won’t stay up, plan a replacement.

• Replace in pairs: Mixing a new strut with a weak one twists the tailgate and shortens life.
• Match specs: Use the correct length, stroke, fittings, and force rating specified for AU wagon.
• Safety first: Support the tailgate with a prop or a helper before popping the clips.

Swapping them is a straightforward driveway job. With the tailgate safely supported, lever up the retaining clips at each ball joint just enough to release the sockets, click the new units on, then confirm smooth operation through the full arc. If the hatch sits low or needs a shove to start moving, the struts are usually under-spec or worn. If it rebounds or feels over-eager, the force may be too high.

Expect quality struts to last years, but heat, dust, and frequent use do take a toll. If the Falcon is a daily hauler, add the struts to the service checklist alongside hinges and latches — a minute of inspection saves a bruise to the back of the head later.

Popular questions about 2000 Ford Falcon gas struts

Do 2000 Ford Falcon sedans have factory gas struts?
No. AU-series sedans use torsion rods for the boot and a prop rod for the bonnet. Gas struts appear on the wagon’s tailgate and on some accessory hard lids or canopies. Sedan boot gas-strut conversions exist but aren’t factory and may require brackets or drilling.

What are the signs that my Falcon wagon’s tailgate struts need replacing?
Common signs include a hatch that won’t stay up, drops in cold weather, opens sluggishly, or needs a shove to start moving. You might also spot oil misting on the strut body or hear creaks as the tailgate moves.

Can gas struts be re-gassed, or should they be replaced?
Most automotive gas struts are sealed units and aren’t intended to be re-gassed. Replacement with correctly rated new struts is the reliable fix, and it’s best to replace both sides together to keep the tailgate balanced.