1997 Ford F-150 rear differential?

Tiny
MOSH4JESUS
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 FORD F-150
  • V8
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 224,000 MILES
It started happening about a month ago. When I put my truck into drive or reverse there is a huge slamming noise. When I was diagnosing my truck I realized that the noise is coming from the rear axle. I went to Napa and they told me it was probably the rear differential but also told me it could be a accelaration problem. I was wondering if there could be other causes. Something cheaper to try first? I heard about lubrication on the differential, could I need to do that? I have no idea how to change the differential either, is it hard?

Thankyou for all your help
Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 AT 2:15 PM

7 Replies

Tiny
MERLIN2021
  • MECHANIC
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Have you checked the U-Joints? Is any fluid leaking from the differential?
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Wednesday, February 27th, 2008 AT 2:57 PM
Tiny
MOSH4JESUS
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I don't know much about the u joints. I do know that there is no fluid leaking from the differential. Its is weird because it only slams into gear, but once in gear runs just fine. No wheezing or squeling when accelerating.
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Thursday, February 28th, 2008 AT 1:50 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
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How is your engine idle? OK or a tad high? Loose or worn u-joint will also slam. But will usually squeak a bit under way!
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Thursday, February 28th, 2008 AT 3:26 PM
Tiny
RD2020
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I just had a u joint that was going out. It was fine when moving, but clunked hard when putting in gear. It was just 1 side of the joint. Try wiggling the u joints around and twisting the shafts, to see if there is any play where the u joints go together.
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Saturday, May 21st, 2011 AT 2:05 AM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
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Rd200 thanks for the input, but check the date on this post, Feb 2008, I think the problem is solved.
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Saturday, May 21st, 2011 AT 1:32 PM
Tiny
RD2020
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Sry merlin had a blond moment LOL!
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Saturday, May 21st, 2011 AT 7:32 PM
Tiny
MERLIN2021
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No problem!
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Monday, May 23rd, 2011 AT 7:47 AM

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