My diff. is busted

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Mar 11, 2006 | 03:16 PM

tclearh2o

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My diff. is busted

I recently baught a 1990 F150 Lariat 4x4 with a 302 and automatic transmission. I have noticed that the outside edges of both rear tires are balding while the insides are as good as the day i put them on the truck. If you look at the tires from the rear of the truck you notice that the tops are pointed outward in a \\---// formation. Also, the pinion seems to be extremely loose almost to the point where you would think the spiders are about to blow out. Are these common problems with this model/year pickup? Is it possible that I may have a bent diff. or maybe even bad bearings? Any help would be greately appreciated and I send my thanks to everyone out there.

Mar 11, 2006 | 06:18 PM

78ihs2

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i have no idea about your problem, but i have a used ring and pinoion gears that i just swapped out of my truck. theyre 3.08s and at least look to be in good shape.

Mar 11, 2006 | 09:48 PM

Argo

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From: Sussex County, DE

Quote:

Originally Posted by tclearh2o

Are you sure that perhaps the previous owner didn't do a roatation right before you got the truck? Please don't take this as me saying that you don't know what you are talking about, as I notice that my eyes play tricks on me sometimes when I believe that there might be some sort of trouble, and perhaps this is happening to you too?

Mar 11, 2006 | 10:33 PM

Fully_Loaded

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From: Gulf Shores, AL

If it is that noticable I would say you have a prob. I would open the diff cover and check for metal in the fluid. I have a feeling the problem will be evident.

Mar 11, 2006 | 11:15 PM

tclearh2o

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Thanks guys for the suggestions! Im going to open the diff. within the next day or two to see whats up. I know what you mean about our eyes playing tricks on us Argo, but I am positive that the rear tires are wearing crooked because i put the tires on. Thanks again everyone! I am going to get on that diff. ASAP.

Mar 12, 2006 | 06:21 AM

IB Tim

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From: 3rd Rock

...Welcome tclearh to Ford Truck Enthusiasts!

We are happy you have chosen the best source for Fords.

Enjoy FTE....and
JOIN CLUB FTE -SUPPORT THE FORUMS!
…..See you on the boards.

Mar 12, 2006 | 05:51 PM

tclearh2o

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Thanks Tim, I am glad I joined and I love all the support I have already received! On the note of my diff. problem; I saw my buddy who owns a salvage yard and is an avide Ford guy. He says that most likely the rear axle tubes are bent although neither one of us have ever seen this problem before on a fairly unused Ford pickup. I am getting either a new case or a full rear diff. this coming week. Thanks guys!