Parts for your 2020 Ford Everest-Centre bearing

2020 Ford Everest centre-bearing: what it is and when to service it

Technical sources confirm the 2020 Ford Everest is built with a two-piece rear propeller shaft that uses a centre-bearing (centre support bearing). This setup is documented in the Ford Everest UA workshop manual’s driveline/driveshaft section and shown in the Ford Electronic Parts Catalogue (Microcat) for 2020 Everest, where the propeller shaft centre support/bearing is listed as a serviceable component. Major bearing catalogues for AU/NZ also list a dedicated centre support bearing for Ford Everest (2015-on), aligning with the Ranger-based T6 platform.

On the Everest, the centre-bearing supports the two-piece tailshaft, keeping the shaft aligned under load, reducing vibration, and sharing the job of controlling driveline angles between the transmission and rear axle. It’s mounted in a rubber isolator to soak up harshness and keep things smooth on-road and when towing or touring.

Owners and workshops usually spot a tired centre-bearing by:

• Shudder or vibration on take-off or at certain speeds
• Clunking as the throttle is applied or lifted
• A humming/growling noise that changes with road speed
• Visible cracks or sagging in the rubber support

As part of regular servicing, it pays to inspect the centre-bearing every service or at least each 40–60,000 km, especially if the vehicle tows, carries heavy loads, or runs suspension lifts that alter driveline angles. A quick hands-on check for play, rubber deterioration, and any witness marks from contact is time well spent.

Replacement is straightforward workshop work but does need the right process:

1. Mark tailshaft orientation to maintain balance and phasing
2. Remove the shaft, support heat shields, and avoid over-extending slip joints
3. Press off the old bearing and fit the new one squarely, observing orientation
4. Reinstall, torque fasteners with the vehicle at normal ride height, and road test

Many technicians will also check the universal joints and diff/gearbox mounts at the same time, because wear in those areas can mimic or accelerate centre-bearing issues. If the shaft shows runout or previous vibration damage, a driveline specialist can balance it after the new bearing goes on. In tough Aussie and Kiwi conditions, quality parts and correct installation make the difference between a quiet, long-lived driveline and a repeat visit.

Technical sources referenced: Ford Everest (UA) workshop manual — Driveline/Driveshaft section (two-piece propeller shaft with centre support bearing), Ford Electronic Parts Catalogue (Microcat) — 2020 Everest, propeller shaft centre support/bearing listing, AU/NZ bearing catalogues listing centre support bearings for Ford Everest/Ranger (T6 platform).

Popular questions

Does every 2020 Ford Everest have a centre-bearing?
Most AU/NZ-spec 2020 Everests use a two-piece tailshaft with a centre-bearing. The quick check is to look under the vehicle: if there’s a support bracket and rubber-mounted bearing roughly mid-way along the shaft, it’s fitted. Variant differences are rare, but fleet or market-specific driveline setups can vary.

How long should a centre-bearing last on an Everest?
With normal use, many last well past 100,000–200,000 km. Heavy towing, corrugations, frequent stop-start, or altered suspension angles can shorten that. Regular inspections and fixing any vibration early helps the bearing live a long life.

Can the centre-bearing be replaced on its own, or is a whole tailshaft needed?
The bearing can be replaced on its own, but it is a press-fit job and the tailshaft’s balance and phasing must be preserved. If the shaft is damaged or out of balance, a complete assembly may be more economical. A driveline shop can advise after inspection.