2002 Explorer XLT rear end problem

[racer]

Ladies and gentlemen,
I am new to the forumn and need some help. The ring and pinion on my 2002 4X4 explorer just had to be replaced due to a wear that created a loud whine while driving. The vehicle has 15911 miles, is 3 months out of 3/36,000, but has an extended war. that I paid for. I had to pay a 100 ded. I feel that this should not have happened, I have never had a ring and pinion go out in only 15K, in fact I have never had a problem with a pleasure vehicle rear before. This vehicle has never towed anything or been subject to abuse. Has anyone heard of a problem with the explorer independent 2002 rear? Ford said tough luck, you have to pay the deductable, even spoke with a supervisor at the toll free line. Anyone have Bill Fords email, I have 4 new ford products in my drive way, maybe no more!


thanks

 

[exploded99]

This is a pretty common problem on these trucks. So be glad you had the extended warranty and only had to pay 100. Many people without the extended warranty end up paying for this repair out of pocket.

When Ford went to the independent rear suspension they designed a new rear end. The best explanation I have heard is that the differential housing flexs too much, and lets the pinion shaft move a few thousands more than it should, which eventually ruins the pinion and ring gear. Ford puts in new parts, and goes to a 75 -140w lube. The truck came with 75 -90w lube.

There are also quite a few of these vehicles that have transmission problems / shifting issues. Fixes vary from new shift solenoids up to a new transmission.

You will probably get your monies worth out of your extended warranty-

 

[ExplorerDMB]

exploded99 explained it very well. I have seen some also that have had leaky rear end seals and the cv axles were being chewed up by the seals that they also needed cv axles. I hope either Ford will redisgn it or just get rid of it.

-Drew

 

[racer]

Thanks to all, McToy put me onto NHTSA TSB18466 & 18423. The ford 88 # supervisor flat out lied when she said they have no record of such problems, and if they did they would send out a recall notice for those affected. I don't believe in the tooth fairey, nor did I believe her. Still would like Bill Ford's email to complain