humming noise??????

[02LTDXLT]

i am starting to notice a hum when i drive. it sounds like i am riding w/ some
nobby tires/ big tires. but i am on regular tires. it has been a 2 weeks since i first noticed the noise. i have 92,000 mile on the X. the noise sounds like it is coming from the rear of the truck. could this be a problem with the axle, transfer case, 4x4, low trans axle fluid. any input or things i could check
would be helpful. thanks.

 

[BWilliams]

Extremely common problem with the 3rd gen... it's a problem with the rear differential

Ford issued a TSB on this problem: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=157872

As far as I can tell, the only real issue that comes about from this is the annoyance of the rear-end whine... I've had this problem for a year and a half almost, never got louder, no problems with the rear-end... just the noise. The stereo takes care of that, though.

 

[Mustang4mikey]

Extremely common problem with the 3rd gen... it's a problem with the rear differential

Ford issued a TSB on this problem: http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=157872

As far as I can tell, the only real issue that comes about from this is the annoyance of the rear-end whine... I've had this problem for a year and a half almost, never got louder, no problems with the rear-end... just the noise. The stereo takes care of that, though.

I have a second generation X and must say that i have similar issue with the noise only its my front axle. I has my mechanic go through the entire drivetrain the other day and i kept on suspecting that it was my Hubs. He actually proved me wrong! Its the axle itself and he said if i get the synthetic gear oil from ford that will fix my whine issue. Will try it and see what happens.

 

[Sleb]

I would check your rear bearings first, if not that then have a look at the rear differential.

 

[02LTDXLT]

thanks for the responses, this is some good information. will this be covered
under my extended powertrain warranty?

 

[02LTDXLT]

anyone have tips or pictures on how to change the rear differential gear oil.
i have the general idea just wanted to see pics of the fill and drain plug for an 05 model. just to make sure i am not messin anything up.

 

[Thelt]

I would check the rear wheel bearings. I had a noise coming from the back and it turns out both of mine were bad.