1996 Ford Explorer Rear Differential

IDABELLE

MEMBER
1996 FORD EXPLORER
V8
4WD
AUTOMATIC
188,000 MILES

I have a leak in the rear differential and need to change the gasket. However I am having a hard time getting the bolts out. And also where do I replace the fluids once I have the gasket in place. Of course I have to get the bolts off first and if I can't get them loose. What kind of damage would it cause if the fluids are low and I have to drive the vehicle to work.

Saturday, March 8th, 2008 AT 3:27 PM

1 Reply

FLEXY5

MECHANIC
512 POSTS

First, to get the bolts out, try sraying a penetrant oil on and then tapping the head of the bolt. This gets the lube down into the threads. Make sure you have the correct socket--use a six point and I believe it is a 12 mm (maybe 1/2", I can't remember). The gasket is just a silicone gasket, so make sure you get everything real clean. The fill port is on the drivers side to the pinion side of the case (towards the driveshaft). If you leave the fluid level low, you may cause bearing damage or damage to the gears. Make sure the level is full.

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Saturday, March 8th, 2008 AT 5:16 PM