Parts for your 2013 Ford Falcon-Centre bearing

2013 Ford Falcon centre-bearing: what it is, why it matters, and when to service it

Based on Ford’s FG/FG MkII Falcon Workshop Manual (section 205-01 Driveline), the 2013 Ford Falcon left the factory with a two-piece propeller shaft (tailshaft) that uses a rubber-isolated centre support bearing (commonly called a centre-bearing). This is also confirmed by Ford’s service literature for FG driveline NVH, and by driveline catalogues from specialist suppliers that list a centre support assembly for BA–FG Falcons. So, for a 2013 Falcon sedan or ute, a centre-bearing is relevant and fitted unless the vehicle has been converted to an aftermarket one-piece tailshaft.

On the 2013 Falcon, the centre-bearing supports the two-piece tailshaft at its midpoint, keeping everything aligned as torque and suspension movement load up the driveline. It helps manage angles between the gearbox and differential, reduces vibration, and cuts down on noise that would otherwise end up in the cabin. The rubber carrier around the bearing isolates harshness, while the bearing itself lets the shaft spin smoothly at motorway speeds.

There’s no fixed service interval for the centre-bearing, but it should be inspected during routine servicing—especially if the car tows, has been lowered, or shows driveline vibration. Common signs it’s on the way out include:

• Shudder under load (often 60–80 km/h or on take-off)
• Thump or clunk when shifting from reverse to drive, or on initial acceleration
• Driveline vibration that changes with speed, not engine rpm

When replacing the centre-bearing on a 2013 Falcon, the tailshaft is removed as an assembly. Good practice is to mark shaft phasing and yoke positions before disassembly, keep the halves aligned, and torque fasteners to spec during refit. If the rubber carrier is torn, the bearing feels rough, or there’s visible sag at the support bracket, replacement is due. Because the Falcon’s tailshaft is balanced as an assembly, any bearing or uni-joint work should preserve phasing, if components are changed or the shaft has been apart, a balance check by a driveline shop is smart insurance against persistent shudder.

Also look over companion parts: front coupling/donut (where fitted), uni-joints or CV joints, transmission mount, and diff bushes. A worn mount or bush can quickly take out a new centre-bearing. After installation, a short road test under light and moderate load helps confirm the fix. Quality OEM-equivalent bearings and correct bracket alignment go a long way to quiet, smooth motoring in an FG MkII Falcon.

Popular questions about 2013 Ford Falcon centre-bearing

Does every 2013 FG MkII Falcon have a centre-bearing?
Yes—factory 2013 FG MkII sedans and utes use a two-piece tailshaft with a centre support bearing. The only time a Falcon won’t have one is if it has been modified with an aftermarket one-piece tailshaft conversion.

How long should a centre-bearing last?
There’s no set lifespan. Many last well past 150,000 km, but towing, lowered suspension, worn diff bushes, or harsh launches can shorten it. Inspect the rubber carrier and listen for shudder or thumps during routine servicing.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced without rebalancing the tailshaft?
It can if phasing marks are preserved and only the bearing is changed, but if any doubt exists—or if other components are replaced—professional balancing is recommended to avoid ongoing NVH.