2002 Sport rear end mystery

[css5000]

Hi folks! I've got an '02 Explorer Sport that seems to rub on take off after being on short interstate runs. It doesn't grind, just a rotational friction that goes away about 10mph. It also has a bit of lateral sway at low speed.. any ideas? Thanks

 

[koda2000]

I had a similar noise coming from the rear of a 2001 ST I bought. Sounded just like a tire rubbing, but it turned out that the rear diff had almost no fluid left in it, due to leaking axle seals, and what was in there was 1/2 water. The truck had sat for an undetermined period of time and the lower portion of the ring gear had rusted and was pitted. The entire rear diff was so worn out I just replaced it with a used one.

I suggest you pull the cover and see what the insides look like. You're due for a fluid change anyway.

 

[Jason94sport]

could be the body mounts