rear end noise?

[rankat]

I have a 97 SOHC 4.0 with about 83000 miles on it. It seems to have a rough or grinding noise that is noticeable at slower speeds. (speeding up or slowing down 10 to 35 mph.) Can't tell where it is coming from for sure, but think it may be getting worse. It has had some noise for over a year, but thought it was tire noise. It seems to be getting louder. Can anyone help me? Thanks

 

[Gary Steeber]

Welcome to the Explorer board.

Are you sure it's not the brake pads? You should get them inspected, check the front and the rear. I doubt the rear end is making the grinding noise.

 

[rankat]

Gary,
Thanks for your imput. It isn't the brakes, but now that you mention it , the sound is kind of a muffled steel on steel brake sound when you are in the car. I can't hear it when you are outside the car. I didn't know if that was a sound you might suspect with AWD, but don't think it used to sound that loud. I am ready to have the rear end checked to see if there is possibly a bearing out, but still can't pinpoint it to the rearend.
Thanks again,
Randy Gruber

 

[2001ExpSport]

Sounds like bearings or your diff. Jack up your rear end and spin the wheels by hand. You may find it that way.

 

[TPLYNCH]

Also check the emergency brake pads. They are seperate and are not the greatest. Search for "Emergency Brake" for threads regarding R&R