Replacing rear axle seals & bearings on a 2001 ST with Drum brakes

[Team Chepsk8]

After 180,000 miles, the rear has two minor issues.

1 - the driver's side seal leaks onto the brakes
2 - the Passengers side has the axle bearing starting to "sing"

Is the differential in these trucks similar to the 8.8 used in the Mustangs? If so, does one remove the cover, then take out the bolt and dowel, unclip the axles and slide them out?

Or, is there more involved?

Many Thanks!

Dan

 

[05dakotatrac]

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=325006

that link is for adding a aussie no-slip. steps are the same to the "C" clips on the axle ends inside the carrier.

 

[Mike's brother]

Here's another link, straight on the axle bearing replacement. Great stuff here, and worth reading the thread all the way through for all the good tips that come later.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=214805

Just used this to do mine this weekend. I went with the Timken "axle saving" bearings. They shift the bearing outboard just a bit on the axle. If you suspect any wear or rust damage to the end of the axle shaft, these are a great help.

Best of luck. Just read up, stay safe under there, and take your time. Oh, and be sure to rent a good slide hammer and axle puller from a local auto parts store. It will save you hours of cussing.

Best,
John :exp: