Rear differential problem
Thread Starter
|
Senior User
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 104
Likes: 0
From: Virginia Beach
Rear differential problem
After reading some replies to one of my previous posts on this forum about drive train noises, I am pretty sure I have a rear pinion bearing problem. Don't really have the special tools or the inclination to tackle this rearend rebuild job myself. Any suggestions/opinions as to whom I should trust this rearend job to; a Ford dealer or an independent garage? Any experiences with this repair, average costs, boneyard options, or any other ideas or comments GREATLY appreciated.
1998 Explorer 4x4 SOHC 6, Auto 114,000
Thanks in advance
JD
1998 Explorer 4x4 SOHC 6, Auto 114,000
Thanks in advance
JD
New User
Joined: May 2006
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Get one used
I had a '91 Explorer with 100k miles that I had the rears serviced at a "Jiffy Lube" type of garage (my bad). The flunkys forgot to put in the synthetic lube or an additive, and it ate the rear.
The local dealer wanted $1400 to rebuild my rear. I opted to find a used one. After noting what gear ratio I had, I did an internet search and found one close to home. The used rear had 40k miles on it. I swapped the rears in about three hours, including the drum brake shoes and cylinders.
I felt that a factory built rear was better than what the dealership could do, since they do not do it all the time. You might be able to find a speed shop that could rebuild yours reliably, but the used one worked great. I put another 58k on that Exploder and sold it for $2500!!
The local dealer wanted $1400 to rebuild my rear. I opted to find a used one. After noting what gear ratio I had, I did an internet search and found one close to home. The used rear had 40k miles on it. I swapped the rears in about three hours, including the drum brake shoes and cylinders.
I felt that a factory built rear was better than what the dealership could do, since they do not do it all the time. You might be able to find a speed shop that could rebuild yours reliably, but the used one worked great. I put another 58k on that Exploder and sold it for $2500!!
Junior User
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 84
Likes: 0
If it's just the pinion bearing, a qualified independent shop ought to be able to handle it. Had my 97EB done at one with no problem. It had about 157K miles on it.
Only complaint I have is that now there is a whine from the rear-end at times - possibly a result of a new pinion mating with worn gears, etc. I agree that if you can find a salvage yard rear-end, it may be a better approach - all the gears and bearings would have the same wear.
Only complaint I have is that now there is a whine from the rear-end at times - possibly a result of a new pinion mating with worn gears, etc. I agree that if you can find a salvage yard rear-end, it may be a better approach - all the gears and bearings would have the same wear.
