Beechernic

So... my girlfriend has a 2002 Ford Explorer Eddie Bauer 2wd. It has like 120,000 miles on it.

Recently (1 wk ago it was noticed) there has been a grinding noise in the rear of the vehicle. It doesnt occur all the time, and it really stands out b/w 10-30mph. Visually (of course) everything is in tiptop shape. I can say she has different tires on the rear than on the front. Front prbly have 25% tread left; rear have only been on months...

I did a bit of research online and it was hard to find anything diffinitive for 2wd. Alot of talk about rear differentials, flopping from 4/2wd, etc...
Lots of talk about Transfer cases.
A handful of posts that were fitting were the 2 different wheel patterns and wear sizes. It was noted that this causes the computer to assume 2 (front or rear) are slipping, and it engages the clutch 'oddly' <---my word.

It has only been bad a few nights this week. And I can note that they were rainy afternoons (supports slipping cause). But I dont want to put all the eggs in that basket until I hear from some trusted gurus.


I am sorry if this is in the wrong section, but I couldn't find an applicable location. I also know that many Ford truck owners are Ford vehicle familys, and have experience with Explorers, Expeditions, Rangers, etc...

Per usual all advice is appreciated.

gforceman

www.explorerforums.com. great board used to own one

Beechernic

website doesnt work, but ill look for something sim.

ocps9823

I have a 2003 Exploder 4X4.

It has had a grinding noise in the rear for over 100 000 miles. I had the fluid changed with no change.

I would suggest the fluid change if it has not been done. Also check to see if you need the additive (Friction Modifer) as I changed mine and did not add it. There was a vibration in the drive line when turning until I added it.

Good Luck

MPETE

iTrader: (1)

I would lean towards a rear wheel bearing and hub. we replace bearings and hubs on explorers very frequently at work. unlike unit bearing assemblies more common on the front, these are sperate parts and can be replaced individual of each other, but when the bearing fails it generally damages the hub. since the bearing has to be pressed on and off the hub, its usually just easier to replace both at the same time.

BISCUT

Best me 2 it! Had an 02 and that was What caused mine to do what u are describing. My 02 is around 180k now and all fine. Rear end had fluid changed 2xs by me. The noise was the bearing n hubs.

SuzukiRider

Explorer rearends "chatter" on tight turns. Go do some low speed donuts and you will know if its the rearend.

Wheel bearings are also a major issue.

Steelerfan83

I just by chance came across this! We are looking at buying a 2005 Explorer XLT 4x4 this week, is there anything else you guys recommend looking out for? (i posted in explorerforum.com too)

ocps9823

Transmissions !!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have the 5 speed Automatic. Make sure it has been serviced and give it a good test drive.

I would suggest a tranny service as soon as you buy.

I had to rebuild my trasmission at about 100 000 miles. It was expensive.