2002 4WD Explorer Grinding Noise

[srv270]

Hi all, I have a 2002 Explorer 4WD with about 130k miles, I have been noticing a grinding noise when turning right from a dead stop. I replaced both rear bearings not too long ago because those were bad. The other whining noise at higher speeds is gone because I fixed the bearings, but the grinding noise is still there. Anybody have any ideas or similiar problems? Any suggestion would be a big help. Thanks BTW the noise I think seems to be from the rear end, maybe the differential? But there are no leaks on the drive under that area...

 

[broncojunkie]

If it is limited slip, you may need to change the fluid (note that it takes a heavier fluid than what it originally called for...per Ford tsb). No matter what anyone tells you, it requires a bottle of friction modifier, available from Ford. It will still groan unless you add it, even if the bottle states that no additives are needed. Mine sure did.

 

[srv270]

Thx broncojunkie, I replaced the gear lube with high quality synthetic and added a bottle of the modifier and it is much much better!

 

[roush9799]

I would put 2 bottles of modifier in it. Mine didn't stop growling until the 2nd bottle was added.

 

[broncojunkie]

I would put 2 bottles of modifier in it. Mine didn't stop growling until the 2nd bottle was added.

Same with mine. It still had a little noise, so I added most of another bottle. Still took a day or so of driving before going away completely.

 

[srv270]

Yeah mine started growling again after hr long trip and back, got off the exit to turn right and it started doing it again...will try adding another bottle. What type of modifier did you guys use?

 

[broncojunkie]

Yeah mine started growling again after hr long trip and back, got off the exit to turn right and it started doing it again...will try adding another bottle. What type of modifier did you guys use?

Go to the dealer. Don't recall what it was called, but the guy didn't even have to look it up.

 

[broncojunkie]

XL-3 friction modifier from Ford.