Parts for your 2014 Ford Falcon-Centre bearing

Understanding the Centre Bearing on the 2014 Ford Falcon

The 2014 Ford Falcon, particularly the popular model sold in Australia, is a rear-wheel drive vehicle known for its robust performance and durable drivetrain setup. When it comes to the drivetrain components such as the driveshaft, one might wonder whether a centre bearing is part of the equation or not. After referencing technical manuals and Ford's official repair documentation specific to the 2014 Falcon lineup, it turns out that a centre bearing is not used on this particular vehicle.

So, why doesn't the 2014 Ford Falcon have a centre bearing? The answer lies in its driveshaft design. The Falcon employs a single-piece driveshaft rather than a two-piece driveshaft system. Centre bearings are typically installed on vehicles with two-piece driveshafts, where the driveshaft is split into sections to manage length, vibrations, and alignment. These bearings provide support and maintain the driveshaft's position as it spins between the transmission and the differential.

Because the 2014 Falcon utilises a one-piece driveshaft, it does not require a centre support bearing. This one-piece design is generally more straightforward and reduces potential failure points like centre bearing wear or failure. Without the need to accommodate sections or angles that require bearing support, the Falcon keeps its driveshaft setup simpler, which can translate to less maintenance complexity overall.

That said, while the centre bearing is not relevant to the 2014 Ford Falcon, this does not mean the driveshaft and related components are maintenance-free. Driveshaft health remains important - things like universal joints (U-joints), the CV joints on AWDs, and the driveshaft itself should be regularly inspected and serviced to ensure smooth power delivery and avoid driveline vibrations or noises.

In vehicles where a centre bearing is present, these bearings play a crucial role. They absorb, dampen, and support the driveshaft as it spins, helping prevent excessive vibrations that could cause noise, wear, or even drivetrain damage. Centre bearings are supported by a rubber or elastomer cushion to absorb shocks and reduce harshness transferred to the vehicle's cabin. Over time, these cushion mounts can wear out, causing the bearing to lose support capability and raise driveline vibration issues.

For vehicle owners dealing with centre bearings, maintenance and replacement can be quite straightforward but requires attention to detail. When a centre bearing starts to fail, symptoms like unusual vibrations felt throughout the cabin, clunking noises during acceleration or deceleration, and visible wear on the bearing's rubber mount are common signs. Regular inspections as part of routine servicing can catch these early, avoiding secondary issues like driveshaft imbalance or excessive U-joint wear.

Replacing a centre bearing generally involves lifting the vehicle and removing the driveshaft from the underside. Due to the compression of the rubber mounts, it often requires some effort and the correct tools to avoid damaging the bearing or associated components during removal. New bearings are usually supplied with fresh mounting cushions and sometimes require rebalancing the driveshaft after installation to ensure smooth operation.

While this is useful info for vehicles equipped with centre bearings, Falcon owners can breathe a bit easier since their 2014 model does not require this particular maintenance task. Focusing on universal joints and ensuring the driveshaft is free from dents, bends, or excessive rust will keep the driveline happy and performing well.

One key takeaway for Falcon owners is to stick to the manufacturer's service schedules and use genuine or quality aftermarket parts if components like U-joints need replacement. Keeping the drivetrain lubricated and balanced ensures the power from the engine reaches the rear wheels smoothly without annoying vibrations or premature wear.

So, although the 2014 Ford Falcon does not use a centre bearing, understanding what these components do and their role in other vehicles can help owners make better sense of their Falcon's drivetrain setup. Remember, ongoing maintenance and prompt attention to driveline noises or vibrations can save money and headaches down the track, making your Falcon reliable and enjoyable to drive for years to come.