2002 Mercury Mountaineer Rubbing noise from underneath moun

2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER
152,000 MILES • V8 • AWD • AUTOMATIC
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RRBLACK
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2002 mercury mountaineer AWD, 152000 miles, hear and feel what sounds like tires rubbing at random speeds, going straight, during acceleration and coating, no braking. The rear brakes and rotors do need replaced per dealer, which is causing rear noise, but today I felt what appears to be random rubbing noises from under the vehicle. Examined all 4 wheel wells and did not see any visible signs of rubbing on the tires, except maybe for the right front. There is about an inch of clearance on the inside top front tire and part of the suspension. I assume that is normal, since it's on both sides. But the rubbing noise sounds like it's under and behind the vehicle. The rear axle needs to be topped off per the dealer, but hasn't in a while. Any ideas before we take it to a repair shop? Thanks!
Jun 29, 2009 at 9:47 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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If I had to guess, I would say the rear brakes have something to do with the noise. Also, if the rear differential is low on oil, I recommend refilling it. Don't allow it to get too low.
Jun 29, 2009 at 12:39 PM
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RRBLACK
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dealer said I need a rear differential overhaul. $$$$$$$ Apparently they hooked up a stethescope (sp) and heard rattling, etc. in the rear differential. The truck runs fine except for the intermittent vibration/rubbing noise & feel at 50 mph. Ugh. more $$ out of pocket.
Jun 29, 2009 at 1:09 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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the differential could cause a vibration. Have they identified what is wrong wtih the differential? Let me know what they have told you.
Jun 29, 2009 at 8:28 PM
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RRBLACK
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Thanks for the reply -

The dealer just stated the rear differential needs overhauled...didnt go into details with me other than to say that they used a stethoscope to hear chatter and noises...odd thing was it runs fine until the rubbing/vibration noise starts at random. Is the rear diff repairable..ie components or does the whole assy usually get replaced?
Jun 29, 2009 at 8:45 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
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They are repairable. chances are it is a bearing. Let me know if you have other qustions.

Joe
Jun 29, 2009 at 8:55 PM