'97 XLT Diff Problems
New User
Joined: Apr 2002
Posts: 6
Likes: 0
From: Jackson, MS
'97 XLT Diff Problems
I've got a '97 XLT with the 5.0, it's been a great truck. 150K tough miles on it now and it still runs like the day I bought it. I've towed my boat all over the Southeast with it and now I suppose that's catching up with me. It sounds as if the differential is starting to go South on me.
My problems started when the rear pinion seal failed and I started leaking gear oil. I replaced the pinion seal (what a PITA if you know what I mean). Things were OK for a while, but now tt's whining and there's a loud metal-on-metal squeal coming from the diff. I'm looking to replace the diff or have it rebuilt and would love to hear what you guys think about different options for replacement. Eaton offers a posi diff for around $500, but I'd still have to buy a seal and bearing kit and that'd run me another $200. Are there any complete kits available for these trucks? If so, where can I find info on them? I'm also now 100% sure what diff is in the truck. I'm thinking it's an 8.8 Spicer, but if anyone can tell me how to tell for certain, I'd be very appreciative.
Matt Dearmon
Atlanta, GA
My problems started when the rear pinion seal failed and I started leaking gear oil. I replaced the pinion seal (what a PITA if you know what I mean). Things were OK for a while, but now tt's whining and there's a loud metal-on-metal squeal coming from the diff. I'm looking to replace the diff or have it rebuilt and would love to hear what you guys think about different options for replacement. Eaton offers a posi diff for around $500, but I'd still have to buy a seal and bearing kit and that'd run me another $200. Are there any complete kits available for these trucks? If so, where can I find info on them? I'm also now 100% sure what diff is in the truck. I'm thinking it's an 8.8 Spicer, but if anyone can tell me how to tell for certain, I'd be very appreciative.
Matt Dearmon
Atlanta, GA
