Parts for your 2001 Ford Falcon-Strut mounts

2001 Ford Falcon strut mounts – are they used, and what to service instead

For a 2001 Ford Falcon (AU Series II/III), strut mounts aren’t a thing. According to the Ford AU Series II/III workshop manual and the Gregory’s/Haynes AU Falcon repair manual, the Falcon runs a short-long arm (SLA) double-wishbone front end with a separate shock absorber and coil spring, not a MacPherson strut. Steering load is carried through the upper and lower ball joints, so there’s no need for a rotating strut top bearing or a traditional strut mount assembly. Rear suspension is either a coil-sprung live axle or the optional independent rear setup on higher trims, both use separate shocks and coils, again with no strut or strut top mount. Many local parts catalogues also list the front “strut mount” as not applicable (N/A) for AU Falcons, reinforcing that it’s not fitted to this model.

That’s why “strut mounts” won’t be found on a 2001 Falcon—because there are no MacPherson struts to mount. Instead, the relevant wear items are the shock absorber top bushes/insulators, control arm bushes (upper and lower), ball joints, and sway bar links and bushes. If the front end is clunky over bumps, wanders, or feels loose on turn-in, it’s more likely tired shock top bushes or control arm bushes than any mythical strut mount.

For owners chasing a tidy, quiet ride and sharp steering, regular suspension checks make all the difference:

• Inspect front shock top bushes for cracking, mushrooming or perishing, replace as pairs if worn.
• Check upper and lower control arm bushes and ball joints for play or torn boots.
• Look over sway bar links and D-bushes for looseness or split rubber.
• Assess shocks for oil weep and poor rebound, refresh if they’re tired.
• Finish with a wheel alignment to protect tyres and keep it tracking straight.

If someone’s quoted for “strut mounts” on an AU Falcon, it’s worth clarifying they actually mean the shock absorber upper mounts/bush kits. Using quality rubber or polyurethane components, tightening everything at normal ride height, and aligning afterwards will keep a 2001 Falcon riding sweet across Aussie and Kiwi roads.

Popular questions about 2001 Ford Falcon strut mounts

Does a 2001 Ford Falcon have strut mounts?
No. The AU Falcon uses double-wishbone front suspension with separate shocks and springs, so there’s no MacPherson strut and no strut top mount/bearing. Look to shock top bushes and control arm bushes instead.

What should be serviced instead of strut mounts on an AU Falcon?
Prioritise front shock top bushes/insulators, upper and lower control arm bushes, ball joints, and sway bar links/bushes. Replace worn parts in pairs and get a wheel alignment afterwards.

How can someone spot worn front shock top bushes?
Common signs are a dull clunk over small bumps, vague steering feel, and visible cracking or mushrooming of the upper bush under the bonnet. If in doubt, a quick suspension inspection on a hoist will confirm it.