97 Explorer drivetrain

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May 13, 2003 | 10:36 AM

jamcar130

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97 Explorer drivetrain

My 97 Explorer with 4.0L control trac 4WD, is making a grinding sound when steady pressure is applied to accelerator. Noise doesn't occurr when foot is let off accelerator or when heavy acceleration is applied. This led me to the conclusion that something is loose. I naturally assumed it is a transmission problem,but was told to check loosness in driveshafts. The front drive axle has a little play in it. Is this normal? If not normal, will it make noise if 4WD is not engaged? If this doesn't sound like the problem, any suggestions as to what it could be? Lots of questions I know. If anyone could help. I would greatly appreciate it. James

May 13, 2003 | 12:13 PM

nhfire 77

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97 Explorer drivetrain

Could you define the grinding sound like where it is orginating? The drive shaft should be fairly tight, if you pull on it there might be a small amount of play but it shouldnt be loose

May 13, 2003 | 02:52 PM

jamcar130

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97 Explorer drivetrain

It sounds like gears grinding together. As far as the play in the driveshaft, it doesn't move in and out at all--but it does twist slightly. The rear driveshaft does not do that.