Vibration: CV axle or front differential? | Ford Explorer Forums

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Vibration: CV axle or front differential?

C959

New Member
Joined
November 16, 2024
Messages
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City, State
Kansas City, MO
Year, Model & Trim Level
2006, Explorer, 4.6L V8
2006, 4.6L V8, 157,000 miles

I have a front vibration consistent with the wheel RPM. The best way to describe it is it feels like very very fine sand is somewhere in the drivetrain somewhere between the center and the driver's side. It's most noticeable between 20-50 MPH but exists at all speeds. A slight "mud tire type" droning sound can be heard inside, but with the windows down - nothing. Here is what I have done:

1: replaced both front hubs with Timkens - torqued axle nuts properly - no change
2: removed front driveshaft - no change
3: tires rotated and balanced, checked front tires for unusual/excessive wear and bulge uniformity - all ok
4: changed front differential fluid for first time at 157,000 miles - oil dirty but no excessive metallic debris on magnetic drain plug
5: boots on CV axles appear fine - no grease on inside of wheel
6: front brakes were disassembled - pads are ok - everything was regreased

When turning there is no popping noise usually associated with bad CV axles. Also, this vibration seems slightly more apparent on random certain roads although straight, left, right doesn't matter.

Is this more than likely a problem with the CV axle, front differential, or something I'm not thinking of?
 






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