1999 Ford Ranger XLT 4X4, Rear end Differential issues.

FORDTRUCKBUM

MEMBER
1999 FORD RANGER

I have a 99 Ford Ranger XLT V6 (4.0), Automatic, 4x4 that is having some serious issues with the rear end.

It started a few days ago to my best guess, I noticed a weird noise akin to something rubbing together (like a wheel well guard against soemthing). I checked it before going on a road trip and it turns out the sound was coming from my rear end. It's making a sound as if something has broken loose inside the bell housing and clunks around at lower speeds.
I do not notice the noise once I am going over 20 MPH though. Although that could be because my glass pack muffler (not over kill loud) covers it up.

I checked the fluid level in the rear end and it seemed to be fine, but I did notice metal shavings on the back side of the drain plug caked in with grease.

Any suggestions?

1 Reply

FORDTRUCKBUM

MEMBER
19 POSTS

140,000 Miles and it is limited slip. I know it is limited slip because I've had it stuck in the mud and found out w/o the need for serial numbers. Lol

I guess what I am after is it even worth the trouble of dropping the bell housing and "peeking" at the problem? I'm about sick over the propisition of having to replace this rear end, I'm sure I'll have to take a second mortgage out to be able to afford it. Heh