This is an important part of your car’s drive train as it is tasked with the responsibility of transmitting power produced in the engine to the wheels in such a way that will enable them rotate at different speeds while making a turn. This makes the handling to be of high operational efficiency and the car to have good stability on the road. However, as with any other mechanical component of the car, the rear differentials are known to develop some problems that would hamper the efficiency of the car. Here are some common problems associated with rear differential and how they can be avoided In this article, we will discuss about complete rear differentials and how you need to keep them in perfect working condition.
- Noise from the Rear Differential
Another widespread symptom of the rear differential problem is sounds from the rear of the vehicle. These may be sniffles, whining, humming, grinding, and clunking sounds, among others. In general whining is a sign of bearings or gears that are worn while grinding noises may mean major internal damage that could have been as a result of low or contaminated differential fluid.
Prevention: This article shows that lack of maintenance increases chances of noisy rear differentials. Check and replace the differential and fluids at the time recommended by the manufacture. It is very important to use the right type of differential fluid since using the wrong type will result into insufficient lubrication and wear. If you hear some strange sound, it would be wise if you let a professional mechanic perform a thorough inspection on the complete rear differentials.
- Leaking Differential Fluid
Another to which often attributed is the leakage in the differential fluid; it is not good when this fluid leaks because of the problems that result from it. These parts include differential housing, seals, and gaskets are known to deteriorate within a certain period and cause a leakage of fluids. This leads to wrong ration and sometimes lack of lubrication due to low fluids level, high rates of heat build-up, and damage to the gears and bearings inside the differential.
Prevention: One must perform an evaluation of the rear differential while looking for leaks in the fluid. If at any one moment, you find that there are fluids close to the ground on the parking area of the vehicle, then you should consider to have the differential examined. Worn seals and gaskets can cause oil leaks and proper functioning of the differential will not be possible, therefore they should be replaced. It is also important to keep the correct amount of fluid and to use the right kind of differential fluid as well in order to ease this internal destruction.
- Differential Overheating
Overheating is a very dangerous problem which can lead to huge damages to your complete rear differentials. Majorly results from lack of lubrication, cross country tugging or trailering or running the vehicle under special conditions. Compart causes loss of viscosity of the differential fluid, increased gear and bearing surface friction and, therefore, differential failure.
Prevention: Overloading and driving the vehicle under extreme conditions for long durations must be avoided to get rid of overheating. It is recommended to oftentimes inspect and change the differential fluid to make sure that the fluid is well and, in a position, to offer lubrication. In the event that you often tow huge burdens, it is wise to have a differential cooler since this can will assist with lessening heat and shield your rear differential.
- Worn or Damaged Gears
Constant stress experiencing the gears of your rear differential and particularly during acceleration, braking and turning operations. As time goes on these gears get worn out or even damaged which creates problems such as gear slippage, rough handling and odd noises.
Prevention: Proper lubrication and care of gears as well as their periodic check-ups are necessary in order to reduce the wear and to avoid damages. As a method of maintaining the differential, it is equally important to make certain that correct and right type of the differential lubricant is used to decrease friction and tear of gears. If there are some problems with the gears, for example, if they become difficult to turn or slip in some case, it’s necessary to repair it as soon as possible.
- Vibration and Shuddering
When new cars are shaking or shimmying while in motion especially during acceleration then a rear differential might be the cause. These are usually as a result of worn out or damaged gears, a condition where the driveshafts are not properly aligned or even a fault with the universal joints.
Prevention: Daily/weekly Check up the driveshaft, the universal joints, and differential gears for any visible signs of wear and tear. While it is essential to maintain these parts in good condition and properly positioned, they will help avoid vibrations and shuddering. If you experience any of these symptoms, make sure that you take your vehicle to a mechanic so that it is diagnosed and repaired before it causes other complications.
Conclusion
Rear differential problems cause poor driving characteristics, excessive wear other drive train components and monetary expenses. You can learn and work to prevent problems most vehicles have such as noise, fluids leaking, overheating, worn gears, and vibrations. As for the checked fluids and timely repairs, you should maintain your complete rear differentials in a proper manner in order to provide a smooth work for your car.