What happened to my rear diff in Moab... OUCH!!!

[Gofast]

Thanks for the input. I was also thinking ( Dangerous ) It seems that most of the ARB's that broke also had 4:56 gears. I was wondering if the extra torque was the main problem with munching the spider gears? I know it was mentioned that ARB did not want anything bigger than 31's on there, do they have a limit on Gears as well? and on that thought what about the higher horse & Torque motors? I know Paul had a Vortech, wonder if that helped end the life of an ARB?

Thanks for everyone's input, this is very helpful in planning my mods. My next big improvement is fixing the "Loose Nut" behind the wheel.

------------------
Rob Robertson
94 XLT 4X4 4 door
5.5" Superlift,RS9000s,Warn manual hubs,33 X 12.5's ProComp MTs
"What's Potato Salad Hill?"

 

[rockylaurence]

Replacing the blown A/L's is a huge expense even with the warranty. From what I've read, the A/L isn't reliable in the 8.8. I would invest that money towards a Dana 60 (w/A/L)instead of throwing good money after bad repairing what's broke.

 

[Rick]

Rob, the rear ARB in my Explorer lasted for over 5 years with 4:56 gears. It wasn't until I toasted my entire rear axle at the Truckhaven pre-run that it finally gave up.

My new ARB also has 4:56 gears and it survived the "Waterfall" at Truckhaven "Double Whammy" in Moab and a lot more.

------------------
Rick Horwitz
Editor
explorer@4x4central.com
www.4x4central.com
Ricks Explorer

 

[Nate]

First, i'd like to direct you all to an article on leaking ARBs in the June issue of Peterson's 4Wheel & Off-Road.

Second, did I read this correctly, that someone observed Jay's wheels spinning as he was trying to climb over Double Whammy? Imagine the force applied to the gears when they came to that sudden stop. Although I'd much rather snap something less expensive, this isn't surprising, as for the others, you got me.

In regards to the strength of the 8.8" rear, I called Currie Enterprises a while back, and they said that they'd re-tool the ends like the 9", and would throw in an ARB at the same time, I don't remember the price though. THey also make extreme duty housings.

My 10 cents



------------------
'95 4x4 2dr
31x10.5x15's on 15x7's
K&N

 

[Ray Hutchinson]

Rick,

Earlier in this thread you mentioned a "T/A" rear diff cover with preload bolts. Can you tell me more?? I think it might be a good investment to protect my rear ARB. When the rear axle shifted back at Moab, I bent the backing plate on that side, and it has resisted all attempts to straighten it, so I have to open the diff to get the c-clips out to pull the axle to replace the plate. What better time to install the better cover? Who is the manufacturer, T/A??... not familiar with them. Do you have a vender or source?
Any info greatly appreciated!

Ray H.
93 white XLT
Slightly modded
Lotsa Radios

 

[Rick]

T/A is the manufacturer. It's made it Scottsdale, AZ. I ordered mine through a magazine ad sometime ago.

Ford sells the exact same cover except with the SVO name on it. It's available through Ford Motorsports dealers.

The cover is about 3/4" thick. It is said to reduce the flex of the entire axle housing by providing additional rigidity to the housing. It also has the pre-load bolts which places pressure upon the bearing caps. This is supposed to keep the diff carrier from being pushed backwards. The cover was first used in drag racing applications where driveline shock is a big problem.

------------------
Rick Horwitz
Editor
rick@4x4central.com
www.explorer4x4.com
Ricks Explorer

 

[mattadams]

geez ARB is really dragging their heels on this. Those of you that've taken advantage of their warranty service, how long has it taken them to get you what you deserve? It's been 3 weeks now and I keep getting the old delay routine, "yeah we haven't looked at that one yet, give us a little while and we'll call you back in a few hours" and then I call a week later and get the same response. Anyone else have a similar experience?

 

[Ray Hutchinson]

HD Rear Diff Cover

Rick,

I found (and ordered) the Diff cover last week. JEG'S had it listed as "the Ultimate rear end support cover". with "6 tons of support strength". it's $150.00 plus S&H , but if it saves the ARB, its well worth it. I gather by reading this thread that I don't need to worrry as much about my front ARB.

Matt, Sorry to hear that ARB is jacking you around. Basicly , I guess you're waiting for a reimbursement check, Right? I wonder if there's any way we can help you put a little pressure on them?

Also. gang, finally found the July 4 Wheeler mag this morning. Pretty good article, I thought. Bet lots of J**P owners are shaking their heads in disbelief!

Go Wheelin!

Ray &Debby Hutchinson
93 White XLT
Slightly Modded,
Lotsa Radios

 

[mattadams]

Wow, seven weeks and counting. Now the official word is that ARB has OK'ed that it WAS a warranty issue, and I am just waiting for them to credit back the store where I bought the replacement rear locker so I can FINALLY get my money back... argh... but thats the update .

 

[Rick]

I'm glad it finally worked out in your favor Matt. The waiting can drive you crazy though.

Rick

 

[JAY]

Thats good news Matt. I am still waiting for my new rear ARB. They are covering both the front and rear, they have already sent the front back to me. I have to wait a while for the rear though. They have came out with a NEW ARB for the 8.8. It is supposed to be a lot stronger and since I already broke it 3 times, they are having me wait for the new one to be released. Hopefully it will work better.