Rear Drive Axle and Differential
Preliminary Inspection
1. Visually inspect the housing, seals, and pinion flange for obvious signs of mechanical damage.
2. If an obvious cause for an observed or reported concern is found, correct the cause (if possible) before proceeding to the next step
3. If the cause is not visually evident, verify the symptom and REFER to Symptom Chart: NVH.
Symptom Chart(s)
Diagnostics in this manual assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).
Symptom Chart: NVH
Symptom Chart
Condition | Possible Sources | Actions |
|---|---|---|
Axle howling or whine | Axle lubricant low | CHECK the lubricant level. FILL the axle to specification. REFER to: Differential Fluid Level Check (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, General Procedures). |
Axle housing damage | INSPECT and INSTALL a new axle assembly as necessary. REFER to: Axle Assembly (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, Removal and Installation). | |
Damaged, worn or incorrect ring and pinion gear contact | INSPECT and INSTALL a new ring and pinion set as necessary. Refer to, Contact Pattern of this procedure, or REFER to: Drive Pinion (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, Removal and Installation). | |
Driveline clunk - loud clunk when shifting from REVERSE to DRIVE | Incorrect axle lubricant level | CHECK the lubricant level. FILL the axle to specification. REFER to: Differential Fluid Level Check (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, General Procedures). |
Excessive backlash in the axle | CHECK for excessive axle backlash. ADJUST backlash as necessary. REFER to: Ring Gear Backlash Adjustment (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, General Procedures). | |
Driveline clunk — occurs as the vehicle starts to move forward following a stop | Pinion gears | CHECK and REPLACE as necessary REFER to: Drive Pinion Front Bearing (205-02 Rear Drive Axle/Differential, Removal and Installation). |
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