S1L1K0N
Member
- Joined
- September 29, 2007
- Messages
- 29
- Reaction score
- 0
- City, State
- Winnipeg, MB, Canada
- Year, Model & Trim Level
- 2008 Explorer V6 XLT
Hey folks, I'm looking for some advice, or a link to some info regarding the front wheel drivetrain on my 2001 Explorer. Recently I noticed a slight vibration/thrumming in the steering wheel when under load at all speeds (right after getting my drivers side lower ball-joint replaced). Then last night, while accelerating I noticed a distinct tick,tick,tick/ratcheting sound.
My first thought was one of the CV joints, but after poking around here I'm thinking front drive shaft, as the clicking/ticking happens only when accelerating at medium to heavy throttle (from stop) and occurs while going in a straight line - the ticking will occur when turning, but again only when accelerating.
What I'd like to know is if it is safe to remove the front drive shaft? Will I damage the transfer case and/or front differential if it's removed for troubleshooting, also if the CV joints are the culprits, will they still tick/ratchet without the front drive shaft driving the differential? Is there a sure-fire way to troubleshoot the front drive shaft?
It's an 2001 Explorer, 4 door, 4.0L (SOHC) with 174,000kms (~110,000 miles), and the AWD gets worked out in the winter regularly (this is Canada ), but the truck doesn't go off road normally (it's the wife's ride). Thanks for your help!
My first thought was one of the CV joints, but after poking around here I'm thinking front drive shaft, as the clicking/ticking happens only when accelerating at medium to heavy throttle (from stop) and occurs while going in a straight line - the ticking will occur when turning, but again only when accelerating.
What I'd like to know is if it is safe to remove the front drive shaft? Will I damage the transfer case and/or front differential if it's removed for troubleshooting, also if the CV joints are the culprits, will they still tick/ratchet without the front drive shaft driving the differential? Is there a sure-fire way to troubleshoot the front drive shaft?
It's an 2001 Explorer, 4 door, 4.0L (SOHC) with 174,000kms (~110,000 miles), and the AWD gets worked out in the winter regularly (this is Canada ), but the truck doesn't go off road normally (it's the wife's ride). Thanks for your help!