2002 Ford Explorer Spider gears

Tiny
VEXILAR
  • MEMBER
  • 2002 FORD EXPLORER
  • 6 CYL
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 87,000 MILES
I just had both pinion seals (front and back) replaced on my explorer. I was told by the service tech that I had "loose spider gears" in the rear diff. He also said the old fluid was filthy and looked like it had water in it. My questions are 1) what caused this and is it abnormal at my current mileage? 2) How urgent of a repair is this and what could happen if I ignore the problem?
Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 AT 3:45 AM

3 Replies

Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
If water was in the differential, the old oil in there would be a gray to white, did you see the color of it? Do you hear any whine or clunking from back there? At 87,000 wear is possible if part a is somehow correct! The only way water could get in, is thru the bad pinion seal, or bad vent at the top of the axle.
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Saturday, August 2nd, 2008 AT 6:37 AM
Tiny
VEXILAR
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
I didn't see the color of the fluid. I haven't noticed any strange noises. Are loose spider gears something I should be concerned with? Thank u much for your prompt reply :)
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Sunday, August 3rd, 2008 AT 3:47 AM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
  • 17,250 POSTS
The Sides gears should make a noise if they are too loose, you should hear something.


https://www.2carpros.com/forum/automotive_pictures/62217_Side_gearsb_1.jpg

Part #1 on both sides are the side or spyder gears. You can get thicker shims.
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Sunday, August 3rd, 2008 AT 7:04 AM

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