Cougar/XR7 V8-4.6L VIN W (1997)
Differential Clutch: Testing and Inspection
Traction-Lok Differential
WARNING: NEVER RUN ENGINE WITH ONE WHEEL OFF THE GROUND. A VEHICLE EQUIPPED WITH A TRACTION-LOK(r)
DIFFERENTIAL WILL ALWAYS HAVE BOTH WHEELS DRIVING. IF, WHILE THE VEHICLE IS BEING SERVICED, ONLY ONE
WHEEL IS RAISED OFF THE FLOOR AND THE REAR AXLE IS DRIVEN BY THE ENGINE, THE WHEEL ON THE FLOOR COULD
DRIVE THE VEHICLE OFF THE STAND OR JACK. BE SURE BOTH REAR WHEELS ARE OFF THE FLOOR.
DESCRIPTION
A Traction-Lok(r) differential can be checked for proper operation without removing it from the rear axle housing.
PROCEDURE
1. Raise one rear wheel and remove the wheel cover. Install adapter from Traction-Lok(r) Torque Tool T59L-4204-A on the lug bolts.
2. Using a torque wrench with at least 271 Nm (200 ft. lbs.) capacity, rotate the axle shaft. Be sure the transmission is in NEUTRAL, one rear wheel
is on the floor and the other rear wheel is raised off the floor. The breakaway torque required to start rotation should be at least 27 Nm (20 ft. lbs.).
The initial breakaway torque may be higher than the continuous turning torque. The axle shaft should turn with even pressure throughout the check
without slipping or binding. If the torque reading is less than specified, check the differential case for internal damage.
