My 1996 -X- has a odd squeaking sound coming from the rear of the truck. It squeaks when shutting doors, getting in, getting out, accelerating, braking. going down alleys, hitting speedbumps, anything that makes the vehicle move. I had the old fordhouse i took it too look at it, and they said it would be like a 2500 dollar job because they would have to take everything off from underneath to isolate the problem, and that wasn't going to fly with me, then i took it to sears where i got my tires put on, and they said it was the schocks, then i took it to midas, or whatever its called mow, meineike or whatever, and they said the shocks as well, and i took it by my dad, and he said the shocks. Well, i get new shocks put on, and guess what.. ITS STILL THERE! i took it by a random oil/lube in 15 minutes or less place, and they said that on explorers, the lube casings would have to be replaced by the ford house, because they dont have the tools to open the lube casing. When i get under the truck, and i press up on it, it really sounds like the noise is coming from where the back of my leaf spring(by the spare tire) is rubbing or something with what it is connected to. Then i hold that part, and press up on it, and the noise is reduced.. To me it sounds like an old bed, due to something, haha Any one have any similar problems, or ideas? Any help greatly appreciated

 

Did the 96's have that funny little shock that's mounted sideways ahead of the right rear tire, connecting the frame and the differential/axle? You might try to isolate that one. They're not that common, but you can get 'em.

 

Check that the spare tire is tight and snug in its place.

Could be that the tire is seated right. Also check that the roof rack is locked down.
I chased a problem for weeks with loose roof rack.
I would lower the spare tire down and look around there.
Good luck

 

It could also be the sway bar bushings squeeking. If so, the cure is to loosen the brackets, push the bushings aside, and grease the bushing contact area on the bar.