Driveline

Symptom Chart

~1min read
Condition Possible Sources Action
  • Traction-Lok does not work in snow, mud or on ice
  • Differential.
  • CARRY OUT the Traction- Lok Differential Operation Check in this section. REPAIR as necessary.
  • Lubricant leaking from the pinion seal, axle shaft oil seals
  • Vent.
  • Damage in the seal contact area or damaged or worn seal.
  • CLEAN the axle housing vent.
  • INSTALL a new seal if damage is found.
  • Differential side gears/pinion gears are scored
  • Insufficient lubrication.
  • Incorrect or contaminated lubricant type.
  • INSTALL new gears.
  • INSTALL new gears.
  • Axle overheating
  • Lubricant level too low.
  • Incorrect or contaminated lubricant type.
  • Bearing preload adjusted too tight.
  • Excessive gear wear.
  • Incorrect ring gear backlash.
  • CHECK the lubricant level.

    FILL the axle to specification.

  • INSPECT the axle for damage. REPAIR as necessary. CLEAN and REFILL the axle to specification.
  • CHECK the ring and pinion for damage. INSPECT the ring and pinion wear pattern.

    ADJUST the preload as necessary.

  • INSPECT all the axle gears for wear or damage. INSTALL new components as necessary.
  • INSPECT the ring gear for scoring. INSPECT the ring and pinion wear pattern.

    ADJUST the ring gear backlash as necessary.

  • Broken gear teeth on the ring gear or pinion
  • Overloading the vehicle.
  • INSTALL a new ring and pinion.
  • Axle shaft broken
  • Overloading the vehicle.
  • Misaligned axle shaft tube.
  • INSTALL a new axle shaft.
  • INSPECT the axle for damage. CHECK axle shaft tube alignment. INSTALL a new axle shaft

Test yourself

A quick Ford Mustang quiz: every answer comes with an explanation and a link to the manual page.