Parts for your 2017 Ford Everest-Centre bearing

Centre Bearing on the 2017 Ford Everest: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2017 Ford Everest, understanding the components that keep the drivetrain running smoothly is important for both daily drivers and off-road enthusiasts. One question that often pops up is whether the 2017 Everest uses a centre bearing on its driveshaft and what role that part plays if so.

To put it simply, the 2017 Ford Everest does not use a centre bearing on its driveshaft. This is primarily due to its design and drivetrain layout. The Everest utilises a single-piece driveshaft that runs from the transfer case directly to the rear differential. Because the length and configuration of the driveshaft don't require an additional support point in the middle, there is no need for a centre bearing.

Centre bearings are typically found on vehicles with longer, multi-piece driveshafts. These bearings serve as an intermediary support point to reduce shaft vibrations, manage driveline angles, and help maintain alignment between the front and rear sections of the driveshaft. In cars or utes with extended wheelbases or specific drivetrain setups, the driveshaft might be split into two or more sections, separated by a centre bearing to provide stability.

Since the Ford Everest uses a single-piece driveshaft, it does away with the complexity of needing a centre bearing. This simplifies the drivetrain and can also impact the maintenance requirements over the life of the vehicle.

Knowing that the 2017 Everest does not include a centre bearing can help owners focus on the parts of the driveline that do require regular attention. Key areas to keep an eye on include the universal joints (U-joints), the driveshaft itself, and the rear differential. These components are more likely to show signs of wear or damage if the vehicle is regularly tasked with towing, off-roading, or heavy loads.

While the absence of a centre bearing cuts down on one maintenance item, it does place a little more strain on the universal joints and the single driveshaft assembly. So preventive maintenance here is essential to ensure smooth operation and to avoid larger drivetrain issues down the track.

For Ford Everest owners, routine inspections should include:

• Checking the driveshaft for any dents, cracks, or signs of damage.
• Inspecting the universal joints for excessive play or noise. If there's movement or clunking sounds, it's a sign the U-joints might be wearing out.
• Keeping an ear out for vibrations that could indicate imbalance or worn components along the driveline.
• Ensuring the rear differential fluid is changed as per the manufacturer's schedule to maintain proper lubrication.

In essence, the lack of a centre bearing on the 2017 Ford Everest does not mean the drivetrain is any less robust. It reflects the design choices Ford made to suit the vehicle's wheelbase, drivetrain layout, and intended use cases. Removing a centre bearing also reduces the number of potential wear points and can contribute to a slightly quieter and simpler driveline setup.

For any Everest owner or mechanic servicing these vehicles, understanding this piece of information helps set the right expectations on what parts to check and when to replace or service key drivetrain components. Although the centre bearing is a vital part in some vehicles, the Everest's design removes it from the equation, placing a bit more focus on the universal joints and driveshaft itself for smooth power delivery.