2005 Sport Trac 8.8 rear differential noise

[D12345]

Recently had a "clunking" noise from the rear differential when turning left and going into reverse. Pulled the differential cover this weekend and found the right side spider gear teeth all broken. Interestingly the remaining spider and ring gear teeth were all in good condition.

Pulled the differential assembly out today,and disassembled the gears ...couple of questions:

1) Why would only the one spider gear be affected?
2) Any recommendations on how to flush the housing and axle shafts to clean of metal shavings? Using brake cleaner & magnet now...lots of chunks and fines.
3) Any suggestions on how to reinstall the differential clutch spring?

(Have pics but don't know how to include)

Thanks

 

[01STrunner]

(Have pics but don't know how to include)

Thanks

1. Upload pictures to photobucket or something similar.
2. Copy the direct image link. (It'll say it on the sidebar of the picture on photobucket)
3. Go back to the thread you want to upload pictures to and click the insert image icon at the top of the reply box. It's the yellow postcard with a mountain on it.
4. A little dialog box will pop up. Delete the highlighted text in it and then paste your copied link into the box.
5. Click done and then click submit post.

 

[koda2000]

As far as reinstalling the "S" spring, squeeze it closed in a vice, clamp it down with some thin nosed vice-grips and smack it back in with a hammer.

It's going to be difficult to get the metal filings out of the bearings no matter how you clean it.