2004 rear different cover removal

[kevinb]

My 04 Expy has a slow leak from the rear diff cover gasket, and I'm finally getting around to doing the repair. Searches haven't given me any info on what's involved in removing the cover. Could somebody give me an idea of how much of a headache I'm in for ?

Thanks

 

[65comet]

I haven't done the Expedition yet, but here is a link to an Escape forum with someone who wanted to change their rear diff fluid and I posted instructions for the Escape. Expy should be pretty close.
Escape City - Ford Escape Forums - Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, Mazda Tribute, Ford Maverick - View topic - Rear Diff fluid change

 

[stamp11127]

Haven't done mine but I do remember reading about it on here. In some cases the panhard bar/rod will need to be moved out of the way to gain clearance.
Have a drain pan ready - rear end dope stinks, try not to get any on you.
Silicone gasket maker works in place of a gasket.
Inspect the dope with a flashlight while in the drain pan. If you see small shiny particles, start saving up....

 

[kevinb]

Thanks for the info. It doesn't sound too bad to do - I'll get started when the garage floor warms up a bit.