Ford Escape: Rear Drive Axle/Differential / Description and Operation - Rear Drive Axle and Differential - Overview
The RDU is available with 2.58 drive ratio.
Rear Drive Axle and Differential
The rear drive axle and differential unit (RDU ) is a cast aluminum
differential assembly located in the rear of the vehicle consisting of
the following components:
-
Crown wheel and pinion
-
An electrically activated and mechanically engaged
clutch pack acting on the rear drive axles, that applies or removes
torque from the RDU to the rear axles when commanded
When commanded by the AWD the RDU
Clutch synchronizes the drive shaft speed with the rear wheel speed
and allows drive torque from the PTU (Power Transfer Unit) to be fed to
the rear axles.
The RDU system consists of the following components:
-
RDU actuator motor
-
Spur and idler gear
-
Ball ramp drive plate
-
Ball ramp driven plate
-
Drive shaft coupling (Plunge style joint companion flange)
-
Drive shaft speed sensor
-
Rear differential carrier and inner or outer covers
-
Differential case assembly
-
Intermediate shaft (splined to clutch discs)
-
Multi-plate clutch pack
-
Clutch pack housing (splined to clutch plates)
-
Hypoid gears
-
Left and right output seals
System Operation
System Diagram
Item
Description
1
Drive Mode
2
PCM
3
ABS
4
Accelerator Pedal Position
5
BCM
6
Ignition Status
7
GWM
8
AWD
9
Speed / Position sensor
10
Actuator motor
11
Steering Wheel Angle
12
Vehicle Acceleration
13
Wheel Speed
14
RDU
R..
Other information:
Removal
Release the clips and remove the floor console upper rear trim panel.
Disconnect the electrical connectors.
Remove the PATS center antenna.
Remove the nuts.
Lift upward on the PATS center antenna.
Disconnect the electrical connector.
Installation
To install, reverse t..
Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Chart
Diagnostics in this manual assume a certain skill level and knowledge of Ford-specific diagnostic practices. REFER to: Diagnostic Methods (100-00 General Information, Description and Operation).
NOTE:
Network communication or missing network DTCs may result
from intermittent concerns, such as damaged wiring or low battery
voltage occurrences. Additionall..