Let's get this out of the way right now. This isn't a step-by-step instructional on how to replace a rear axle bearing, because so many different models use so many different means to hold the axles ...

QUESTION -- I own a 1987 Ford Ranger 4x4 with lots of noise coming from the back differential. I changed the u-joints as well as the driveshaft hanger bearing, but now I am getting a lot of vibration ...

The 8.8-inch design of the Ford axle bearing uses the axleshaft surface as the inner bearing race. The loads on the bearing and the axle surface create heat, which in turn ruins the axle surface. The ...