Hi Guys,
I have a question that concerns the limited-slip rear-end in my 2001 Ranger, which has the F6 axle code on the sticker on the drivers side door post. This truck is equipped with the 3L V6 and the 5 speed standard transmission, and currently has 145,000 KM on the odometer.
I started hearing a noise from somewhere back there about a month ago when taking off from green lights. Although I have never burned any rubber with this truck, I generally don't waste too much time getting on my way off the line, so I guess my driving style could be described as semi-aggressive.
The sound is a difficult one to describe (can't seem to think of anything else that sounds like that), but it happens at exactly the same time as I'd expect to hear a back tire spinning on dry pavement if I had put my right foot into it hard enough. I should also mention that I've heard it happen when driving in reduced traction conditions like snow and ice, so I doubt that I'm hearing a back tire burning rubber or anything like that.
This sound only occured off the line previously, but the other day I heard it again when shifting into second gear. This sound isn't anything very loud either, as I doubt I'd even hear it if the radio was on at a low volume setting.
I suspect I'm hearing the clutch packs spinning in the limited slip diff, and I was wondering what you guys think. Since it happened when shifting into second the other day, I'm also anticipating that it is likely going to get worse over time.
I have a few questions about this:
1) Do you think these symptoms sound like something that would point to the chutch packs in my limited-slip diff?2) Is this a Ford 9 inch rear axle like the old days, or is this another design altogether?
3) Is this big money to deal with parts and labor-wise, or will the repair job be something that won't scare me too much financially?4) Is this something that can be put off for a while, or would it be in my best interests to get on it right away before any more damage is done, like a set of almost worn-out brake shoes that are just about ready to carve some nice deep grooves into the brake drums?
If I was younger, it was summertime, and I didn't mind the smell of differential lubricant so much, I'd probably consider going in there myself. Since I strike out on all three scenarios, it looks like I'm going to pay someone else to do it this time around, so I'd like ask you guys what you think.
Cheers,
Ken