little help for new user please....diff

[daddychris]

Hi all, first post,
I need some help...I have 1999 explorer v8 auto od. AWD 160k miles
Needed tires in front so i got some used 235 70 15
back has 235 75 15 so front are .5 inches smaller....now hear bad noise from front diff. The diff was so hot you couldnt touch it and heard grinding noises. Would the tire size cause this or is this unrelated?
I am in the middle of taking the diff out to rebuild, can someone give a link to where i can get the parts to rebuild the diff?

thanks,
chris

 

[nitro71]

So the AWD is always engaged? I've heard on cars like Subarus you never mix tires or tires with different tread wear even.

 

[daddychris]

Yes, the AWD is constant.
After the vehicle was driven 30 miles the diff was so hot you couldn't touch it for a couple hours.