Hi all. My 2004 Freestar (3.9) has a bad clicking sound in the front left/drivers side so I would guess it's time for a new cv axle for that side. Maybe I'l do both but I am not sure if my model has the ABS ring on the cv axle or not. I am looking to order a new set but I how do I know if my model has the ABS ring on the cv axle? Is there a quick way to know/see without having to remove the old unit? Ii called the local stealership and the parts guy couldn't tell me even after I gave him the VIN. I'm no spring chicken but I can try and get down under the van if I know where and what to look for. Any and all help is greatly appreciated!!

 

The ABS toner rings are sealed inside of the wheel hubs themselves. I pulled a picture off of ROCKAUTO for you to see.

 

Thanks for all the help, I do appreciate it. I was able to get under the van a little last evening but I didn't see any ABS tone ring. Of course, with my old eyes it is possible i missed it. Anyway, I checked on ROCKAUTO and they offer two versions of the cv axle: one with a tone ring and one without the tone ring. I even called a local Ford Dealership and asked the parts guy but he said he couldn't be sure either way. Something else is that when I was under the van, i could see that the CV boots were in excellent condition and the clamps are tight. I have never run across a cv joint that was making noise and the boot was in good shape. The boots are usually torn and/or loose. Anybody have a situation like this (a cv axle making the infamous clicking sound but the boots are in fantastic shape and the clamps are as tight as new)?

 

Yes , that happens. It's kinda like, "All that glitters is not gold". Darn it !