Hello Everybody,
I have a 1995 E-150 with the 351. About a month ago I noticed a rear vibration accompanied with a squeaking noise. I checked tha basics like tires and u joints and they checked out ok. The squeaking noise is coming from from the point where the driveshaft meets the rear flange. My guess is that the squeaking is coming from the pinion bearing. My question is, will a differential fluid change correct it, or will it have to be replaced? I have the pain in the *** rear end that requires me to take off the diff cover. Now I would hate to change the fluid only to find out I have to do it all over again to change the pinion bearing. Your thoughts will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks,
Brian

 

Hello Brian,

Are you completely sure that the U-joints are OK.
I had sometimes a squeak at the rear and at the end a speed relativ vibration, so i checked some things including the U-joints, all those things looked good!

But after disconnecting the driveshaft it was clear that the U-joint at the diff was gone.
Problem was that it was completely dry, the needles of the bearing where mostly vanished, and replaced by rust as fine as dust, that was the reason i couldn't feel any play, because there was no play.... there was rust.

So if you haven't checked the U-joints this way, do it and be sure for a smooth and playfree movement.

Rudi

 

I second the tough about the u-joints, with as cheap as they are and as simple to change. Might be worth a try and cheaper than a pinion bearing.

 

Try as I might, I could not get the driveshaft yoke seperated from the rear flange. It seems to be rusted together. I tried everything I could think of besides heavy duty hammering. That included a pry bar, some light tapping with a hammer and spraying it with WD40. What am I forgetting?

 

Did you index the driveshaft and flange so that you can put it back in the same position?

After removing the 4 bolts you should be able to remove the shaft, just pry it away from its mating flange, maybe rust will make it a bit difficult.

When you put it back in place, make sure the surfaces are clean and not distorted, use fine sandpaper or so, and put some Loctite on the bolts.

Rudi

 

I got the driveshaft off finally and the rear U joint was totally shot. the needle bearings all fell right out. Replaced both U joints and the problem is solved. thank for your help.

 

My pleasure,

So you made the same mistake as i did, you can't be sure enough with these problems, or it will cost you a lot of time and money!

Rudi