Axle Bearing/Differential

Karl Muller · #1 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 05:13 AM

I have a greese explosion from the rubber boot attached the the axle at the rear end. Is this a bearing or differential. I drove it home when it happened(very slowly)so I know the gears are ok.
I can't see how the axel is secured to the rear,
Is the piece (with the rubber boot) threaded to the rear?
Any suggestion on my next step would be appreciated.
I know I have to pull the axle to fix it and I am wondering if this is a major job ore one that I can try....also
It is a Ford rear...can I buy needed parts from Ford or an SPF Dealer.
Any help would be great.
Thanks

Excaliber · #2 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 09:26 AM

CV joint boot which hold the grease in and the dirt out is what that is. Even when it breaks and throws grease all over everything (what a mess) your still OK. No damage to the CV joint itself. Some cars drive with torn CV joints for MONTHS, YEARS or thousands of miles with little or no damage. That is NOT recommended, just not to worry about damage at this early stage.

Ford has all the parts you need, probably NAPA has the part! It's an 8.8 Ford rear end, common.

Karl Muller · #3 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 09:42 AM

Thanks...but I have severe clunking! Could that joint be broken?
What is involved in replacing it?
I appreciate your help

Excaliber · #4 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 09:47 AM

Uh oh,,,, you didn't mention the severe clunking. Which may be the very reason the boot is torn, the CV exploded. NOT a good way to tear the boot.

Karl Muller · #5 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 09:50 AM

any idea on how difficult it is to replace?

Excaliber · #6 (**permalink**) 05-09-2004, 09:57 AM

Depending on your mech level of skill, not that bad. Just get a book that covers it and go for it! You CAN do it.