Ford rear end differential leaks in front. How do I repair it?

Question

I have a 2001 Ford F-150 pickup truck that had been leaking for quite a while. I thought it was the gasket on the rear but after replacing the gasket and adding more fluid I have discovered that it is leaking from the front of the differential where the drive shaft connects. What must I do to repair this?

Answer 1

I had similar problems with my Toyota Sienna and last month. Try getting a free auto warranty quote and see if you can get the policy before you need to get your car fixed. http://www.autoadviceonline.com/Warranty...

Answer 2

It needs a front seal, I think you knew this.

Well unless you are a real gear  man, take it to a professional. The front seal replacement requires the reloading of gears and setting run-out and all that.  It takes special equipment and a lot  more special  expertise.

If  the assembly is like the ford 9" where you can pull the axles and take the gears out with the front cover, then maybe you could find a replacement in the salvage yard.

IMHO take it to a pro, a mistake  in this area can end up costing a lot more then the mechanic will. Make sure to  get a guaranteed on this work.

Answer 3

you have to change the seal.

Just for info purposes goto the autozone.com website and look at a free online repair guide for a F150.

Now they won't have a guide for a 2001,,,its too new for them to air it. But basically a F150 hasn't changes that much over the years. So pick the closest year you can. It is probably the same rear end as you have.

Answer 4

You need to replace two maybe three things the seal for sure and the thrust washer, always replace it when replacing the seal and if there is a grove on the yoke where the seal rides then you need a speedy sleeve to hammer over it to keep it from leaking but still must replace the other stated parts. Then and this is very important tork the nut to the required specks