Folks,

I just today replaced both front hub assemblies. After doing so, I have a vibration in the steering as if somrthing in the front drivetrain is sticking. I do not believe that the CV joints are bad becuase I do not get the popping when cutting sharp in reverse.

The reason that I replaced the assembly was a thought the bearings going bad. I have a grinding feeling at low speeds when slightly turning the wheels. After replacing the hubs this problem is still present along with the one above.

I have one additional problem that I believe is a rear differental pinion bearing. I have a whine that gets stronger with speed and goes away is I left off the accellerator. Is it better to get a replacement differential or repair?

Please help. the Explorer is a 2002 XLT 4WD V6 with 107K miles.

I do a lot of traveling and need these problems resolved quickly.

Thanks.

 

If the vibration only happens when you turn the wheel, it is probably going to be an easy fix. 8) I had this same kind of problem after I had my Explorer frontend serviced be the dealer. They gave me the fix over the phone and it has been a while since then so I will try and remember the exact sequence of things you have to do. I believe it was: while the car is running park on an even surface and turn the wheel all the way to the right then turn the car off. Let it set for a couple minutes while off. Turn the key to the on position and turn the wheel all the way back to the left then all the back to the right. Keep the key on and keep turning the wheelall the way back and forth about 5-6 times. Now keep the wheel turned all the way to the left then turn off the car. Wait a few minutes and when you tuen of your car you should be fixed. If not it should at least be better and just turn the wheel all the way back and forth until it gets even better. Also check the power steering fluid before and after this process. I guess the reason you have to do all this is because somehow some air got into the lines and are self correcting. This just speeds up the self correction. I really hope this helps.

About the rear end, I would say go to the junk yard if you can. Try to get something with some sort of 30 return or better. That would be my first try.

 

Ok, I performed the sequence that you discussed. No more vibration. Thanks. I must have created air pockets in the line becuase I did turn the wheels various times without engaging the pump. Makes sense.

I still need someone to respond about the grinding. So afraid it is a bad differential at this point.

 

Ford Dealership today said the the grinding is the timing chain tinchener. Wierd that this would only be felt when at low speeds and slightly turning the wheels.

The rearend whine has resulted in a overhaul of the differential. $1698 worth of damage