Hi guys,

I have a 2001 Ex 2WD V-10

In the last couple of months I have been noticing a faint burning smell when I would park the Ex. It was only on the driver's side. I crawled underneath and looked more than once and didn't see anything. I almost smelled like burning rubber or tar. At first I thought it was tar because they were re-tarring the road and maybe some got on the exhaust.

Anyway I think I have located the problem but I'm not exactly sure what is wrong.

I was looking at the truck yesterday and noticed a stripe in the driver rear fenderwell. It went up and over and all the way back. It was a dark streak that was kinda tar-like.

So, I slid underneath and sure enough, the inside of the rear tire had some greasy substance all over it. The tire had a starburst effect if you follow me. The brake caliper was moist as well, but it was pretty clear that none of the fittings were leaking. Brake pedal feels rock solid, so I think I'm good there.

I took the wheel off and it seems like the leak starts mid rotor. Like the fluid is being flung up from the fins of the rotor.

Initially I though it was a failed oil seal. So I pulled out the Chilton and looked it up. The picture they show of the axle and the o-ring almost makes it look like the o-ring is sealing the end of the axle with all the bolts and not further in.

Anyhoo, can you guys enlighten me on this rear axle setup and seal arrangement? Do I just need to replace my rear axle seal and service the diff fluid?

Any and all help would be greatly appreciated!!!


thanks!

 

I had the rear axzle seal replaced at a shop. Job didn't look that difficult, though the guy did use a special tool to remove a fixture that fit inside the axle (hard to explain). My truck failed inspection because the emegency brake would hold. I forget exactly how much it was.

 

Here is a link on the procedure! Only special tool you need is the rear hub socket.

Welcome to camodown's Rear Hub Seals and Parking Brake repairs

 

Awesome! thanks!

 

That special socket tool can be spendy. Best price I found was at Autozone for 20.99 plus shipping for the Mile Marker tool. You'd have to order it into the store or buy it online. Here is the listing info at Autozone and the Mile Marker part number:

Mile Marker/Ford 250 and 350 series truck rear axles spindle nut socket
Part Number: 15009-01

It is a suprisingly easy job to do.

 

Ok, thanks! I see you have a 4WD. Is it the same socket for 2WD? Because mine is 2WD.

 

I believe they share the same rear axle on all Excursions 2wd or 4wd but I will defer to others on this forum that can confirm it.