Disabling 4x4 Auto & Traction Control/RSC? Rear end noise diagnosis.

[CS223]

I believe I've got the dreaded rear differential noise. RH side seal is leaking, 73K miles 2005 4x4. Noise sounds like mud tires on the highway, I can feel the vibration in the floor board, it's been getting consistently louder and doesn't matter if it's loaded or coasting. Hub bearings feel smooth & quiet rotating the wheels by hand. I was wanting to put it up on jack stands and run it just to confirm 100% that it's not a driveshaft or hub bearings. Obviously, you can't do that with the Advtrac. I tried the master disable by holding the switch down but no dice. Is there any way to do what I propose or is there a better way to confirm the diagnosis? Axle lube looked good and level was OK when I checked it about 500 miles ago. Leak has gotten worse since then as has the noise.

 

[CS223]

Figured it out. Just unplugged the transfer case connector.

 

[rocco123]

Still could be a rear bearing. From what I have read, diff bearings only sound off during accel. Does it make noise when going into a turn? I recently replaced my right rear (2nd time in a year) due to hearing what sounded like mud tires. Noise was less when less weight on that side going into a right turn. On the other hand since U have a leak......
http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=301195&highlight=noise

 

[CS223]

I had the vehicle up on stands and used a mechanics stethoscope to listen to both knuckles and the differential gear case, gear case was quiet, had the wife run the speed up to 55mph. Going to replace both hubs/bearings since I have to pull the half shafts anyway to replace the differential seals.

 

[rocco123]

Just my opinion, but U should get Timkins.

 

[CS223]

Just my opinion, but U should get Timkins.

I did, but only because I couldn't get OEM Motorcraft ;-)