2002 Ford Escape drivetrain problems

[jordan1948]

OK, what I'm dealing with is a ford escape that has a problem with the drivetrain. On the escapes the 4x4 has an "auto" or "on" selector switch. So that means that in "auto" the 4x4 will kick in when the 2 front wheels are sliping. Well the problem is, the 4x4 keeps kicking in when it doesn't need to and is making a thumping, thunking and clunking noise. The front drive shaft has been replaced as well as the wheel bearings. My theory is that with the limited slip differential the front drive shaft is slipping to much which in turn is causing the rear wheels to kick in. If anyone could help me with this I would greatly appreciate it.

 

[frickea86]

When the two wheel bearings were replaced, did you happen to replace the ABS wheel speed sensors? The nice thing is if you didn't, the wheel bearings are not a "sealed" unit containing the ABS sensors like the explorers. My first step would be to replace all the ABS speed sensors (4) around the clock to ensure the proper signal is being received.

While under there make sure the ABS sensor rings looked like they are not damaged.

 

[jordan1948]

Well I'm not the one who replaced them but I can get in touch with the mechanic who did and find out if he did or not. I don't think so otherwise he would have said something. The car is my mom's btw so I've got access to it most of the time to check these things out.