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Front Differential Rubbing

Big Ben_D

Big Bend
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Ben
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2023 Big Bend 2-Door 2.3 Auto (Non-Sas)
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Big Bend
Hello,

I’ve got 10k miles on my non-sas big bend (unmodified), and the front diff is making an odd sound. It a rhythmic rubbing sound, very subtle, and most noticeable at around 20mph. At highway speeds any noise is drowned out by the wind/road noise.

I’ve tried 2nd, 4wd, 4lo, nothing makes a difference. I jacked the front up, spun the wheels manually, and everything looks and sound normal with both sides. No brake rub. Checked under the skid plate to confirm there was no debris stuck there.


Is something in my front diff broken? Before the noise started, I was on unplowed gravel road, and got stuck In some snow. I spun the wheels in 4lo, and (not having a front locker) l used the brakes and gas to make both front tires spin. I had zero traction on ice, so all wheels spun freely. I wasn’t abusing anything, and I never heard anything pop or grind. Eventually just got a pull to get out. Sound started immediately after. I drive 100 miles home with no other problems.

Has this happened to anyone else? Hoping to get it warrantied. Has anyone had warranty work denied for issues that started on-trail?
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RallyGorgo

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The tool I’ve used to best narrow-down noise issues under my vehicles has been the Steelman Chassis Ear. Basically it allows you to listen to anything under the vehicle, while you’re driving, that you can attach an alligator clip to. Look them up, not cheap, but they work well.
Ford Bronco Front Differential Rubbing IMG_7285
 

GI_Jo_Nathan

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Hate to say it, but I would try taking it to the dealer first, and admit to nothing. You have a warranty for a reason. If they can't find it then I would start trying to figure it out.
 

Fordified1

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Clubs
 
Hello,

I’ve got 10k miles on my non-sas big bend (unmodified), and the front diff is making an odd sound. It a rhythmic rubbing sound, very subtle, and most noticeable at around 20mph. At highway speeds any noise is drowned out by the wind/road noise.

I’ve tried 2nd, 4wd, 4lo, nothing makes a difference. I jacked the front up, spun the wheels manually, and everything looks and sound normal with both sides. No brake rub. Checked under the skid plate to confirm there was no debris stuck there.


Is something in my front diff broken? Before the noise started, I was on unplowed gravel road, and got stuck In some snow. I spun the wheels in 4lo, and (not having a front locker) l used the brakes and gas to make both front tires spin. I had zero traction on ice, so all wheels spun freely. I wasn’t abusing anything, and I never heard anything pop or grind. Eventually just got a pull to get out. Sound started immediately after. I drive 100 miles home with no other problems.

Has this happened to anyone else? Hoping to get it warrantied. Has anyone had warranty work denied for issues that started on-trail?
Trail? What trail? That’s where I would start with the dealership.

Take a look at your diff mounts / brackets. Someone on here broke one a while back. And of course was denied warranty. 😠
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