Ford Falcon Axle Specs
by Rob WagnerThe 1960 to 1970 Ford Falcon's rear axle, frame and suspension system associated with the axle changed little during its 10-year production run. However, the rear axle assembly and final gear ratio often changed depending on the model year.
Frame
Ford mounted the rear axle to a frame that had a 109.5-inch wheelbase. By 1970, the wheelbase grew to 117 inches, with the overall specifications to the axle changing to conform to different engine horsepower and torque demands.
Axle
The rear end featured a live rear axle with telescopic shock absorbers and semi-elliptic leaf springs. Matching the rear axle is the front suspension system consisting of unequal length wishbones, telescopic shocks, coil springs and a one-inch-diameter anti-sway bar. Falcons equipped with six-cylinder engines had a 7.25-inch rear axle assembly, while V-8-powered Falcons had an 8-inch rear axle assembly. The final rear gear ratio was 3.10-to-1 for 1962 Falcons, 3.25-to-1 in 1964 and 2.80-to-1 in 1965.
Wheels
Mounted to the frame and rear axle are 16-inch wheels, 205/60R15 tires and front and rear drum brakes. Disc brakes in the front were optional.
Transmission
Transmitting power from the engine to the rear axle was a three- or four-speed manual transmission or the two-speed Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission.
References
Writer Bio
Rob Wagner is a journalist with over 35 years experience reporting and editing for newspapers and magazines. His experience ranges from legal affairs reporting to covering the Middle East. He served stints as a newspaper and magazine editor in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Wagner attended California State University, Los Angeles, and has a degree in journalism.
