Ford 2003 Mustang Workshop Manual page 275

Axle overheating
Broken gear teeth
on the ring gear
or pinion
Axle shaft broken
Component Tests
Driveline Vibration
An analysis of driveline vibration can also be conducted using the Vibration Analyzer; follow the
manufacturer's directions.
Driveline vibration exhibits a higher frequency and lower amplitude than does high-speed shake.
Driveline vibration is directly related to the speed of the vehicle and is usually noticed at various speed
ranges. Driveline vibration can be perceived as a tremor in the floorpan or is heard as a rumble, hum,
or boom. Driveline vibration can exist in all drive modes, but may exhibit different symptoms depending
upon whether the vehicle is accelerating, decelerating, floating, or coasting. Check the driveline angles
if the vibration is particularly noticeable during acceleration or deceleration, especially at lower speeds.
Driveline vibration can be duplicated by supporting the axle upon a hoist or upon jack stands, though
the brakes may need to be applied lightly in order to simulate road resistance.
1. Raise the vehicle promptly after road testing. Use a twin-post hoist or jack stands to prevent tire
flat-spotting. Engage the drivetrain and accelerate to the observed road test speed to verify the
lubricant type.
Lubricant level too
low.
Incorrect or
contaminated
lubricant type.
Bearing preload
adjusted too tight.
Excessive gear
wear.
Incorrect ring gear
backlash.
Overloading the
vehicle.
Overloading the
vehicle.
Misaligned axle
shaft tube.
205-02B . CLEAN and
REFILL the axle to
specification.
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.
INSTALL a new ring and
pinion. REFER to Section
205-02A or Section 205-02B
INSTALL a new axle shaft.
REFER to Section 205-02A
Section 205-02B .
INSPECT the axle for
damage. CHECK axle shaft
tube alignment. INSTALL a
new axle shaft. REFER to
Section 205-02A or Section
205-02B .
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