Rear End Help

[keithtaylor]

I have a 91 Explorer that just exploded on me. I had been having a noise coming from the drivetrain for a day or two. I finally tracked it down to the rear end (Pinion seal leaking). I had this problem fixed but to my dismay it was too little too late, now I believe my rear end is toast because it is grinding and howling even with the new seal and lube. My basic question is can anyone tell me how difficult it is to replace the rear end on this bad boy and about how much one will set me back? Also, could someone recommend a place for me to get one? Thank you for all your help! :fire:

 

[CADDYBILL]

I had my rear replaced last week. I was lazy and had the shop do it. they found a tight rear with low miles for $450. I don't know about the labor yet. I havent goten a bill yet.

 

[MrShorty]

Before assuming the rear end is shot, a couple of questions:
Are you certain that whoever did the job put gear lube in the differential? It's rare, but mistakes can happen. I would take a couple of minutes, pull the fill plug, and make sure there is gear lube in there.
Do you have a trac-lock differential? If so, did they put any friction modifier in with the gear lube?

 

[keithtaylor]

I had the job done at a local shop....and in fact after picking it up I ended up taking it back to them to recheck everthing...they assured me that the rear end got damaged when the oil went low from the seal...and I do trust the guys there...and I honestly am not sure if I have a trac loc diff...but I do know there is additive in there because I put some into it myself...if my rear end is shot, what is the most cost effective way to fix it? complete used or just replace the gears in the rear end?

 

[RiverRat]

...if my rear end is shot, what is the most cost effective way to fix it? complete used or just replace the gears in the rear end?

I'd guess gears, seals, lube, bearings will run around 300-400 dollars. Install and setup will be another $200+

So it would be more cost effective to find a good condition used and swap it in.