n8bachelor
Dedicated LVC Member
Car has developed a noticeable grind/howl from the back end that I suspected was the differential (aka 3rd member).
Took it to the shop and they test drove it and put in on the lift to diagnose the problem. Shop said it was the pinion bearing going out making that noise. After the bill of parts and labor they wanted $1200 for a 7 hour job ($90/hr). Parts list included seals, bearings, fluid, etc.
I asked how long it would take to swap out for a new differential.... 3 hours.
I've called the shops around here and found one from an '04 LS for $300. I have not asked how many miles.
Now to my question: Does the Ford Thunderbird use the same differential as the LS? I have heard they do, but is it a direct swap? I'm not looking for better gearing or performance or anything like that.... just want it to run for another 50k.
I do not have the means to swap the part at home and do intend to shop for a more reasonable labor rate.
Any advice is appreciated.
Took it to the shop and they test drove it and put in on the lift to diagnose the problem. Shop said it was the pinion bearing going out making that noise. After the bill of parts and labor they wanted $1200 for a 7 hour job ($90/hr). Parts list included seals, bearings, fluid, etc.
I asked how long it would take to swap out for a new differential.... 3 hours.
I've called the shops around here and found one from an '04 LS for $300. I have not asked how many miles.
Now to my question: Does the Ford Thunderbird use the same differential as the LS? I have heard they do, but is it a direct swap? I'm not looking for better gearing or performance or anything like that.... just want it to run for another 50k.
I do not have the means to swap the part at home and do intend to shop for a more reasonable labor rate.
Any advice is appreciated.