2002 Ford Explorer spider gears

2002 FORD EXPLORER

87,000 MILES • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC

VEXILAR

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I just had both pinion seals (front and back) replaced on my explorer. I was told by the service tech that i had "loose spider gears" in the rear diff. He also said the old fluid was filthy and looked like it had water in it. My questions are 1) what caused this and is it abnormal at my current mileage? 2) How urgent of a repair is this and what could happen if I ignore the problem?

Aug 2, 2008 at 3:45 AM

MERLIN2021

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
17,250 POSTS

If water was in the differential, the old oil in there would be a gray to white, did you see the color of it? Do you hear any whine or clunking from back there? At 87,000 wear is possible if part a is somehow correct! The only way water could get in, is thru the bad pinion seal, or bad vent at the top of the axle.

Aug 2, 2008 at 6:37 AM

VEXILAR

MEMBER
2 POSTS

I didn't see the color of the fluid. I haven't noticed any strange noises. Are loose spider gears something i should be concerned with? Thank u much for your prompt reply :)

Aug 3, 2008 at 3:47 AM

MERLIN2021

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
17,250 POSTS

The Sides gears should make a noise if they are too loose, you should hear something.

Part #1 on both sides are the side or spyder gears. You can get thicker shims.

Aug 3, 2008 at 7:04 AM

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