Genuine Mercury Zephyr Differential

Mercury Zephyr Differential Parts Questions & Experts Answers

• Differential Case
  E7TZ-4204-A
  Q: What are the key features and specifications of the rear axle and differential design on Mercury Zephyr?

  A: The rear axle is an integral housing type, and the final drive is a hypoid gear type in which the center line of the pinion is below that of the ring gear. 2.3L models of the car carry a ring gear of 6¾ inches while the other models have a slightly bigger ring gear of 7½ inches. The principles of construction of the axle and differential of the two rear axles are alike, yet they are not identical. The hypoid gear set is made of a ring gear and an overhung drive pinion, which is located on the roller bearing at the two ends. Pinion bearing preload is retained by a crush type spacer on the pinion shaft and this is controlled by the depth of the pinion nut. The housing assembly they use features a cast center section with provision for attachment of the rear suspension, with axle tubes welded to either side, housing the semifloating axleshafts. In the case of 6¾-inch axleshafts, these are held in the housing by bearing retainers at the outer ends while on 7½-inch models, the C-locks are at the inner ends. The rear portion of the center casting can be detached to allow access to the differential; no gasketing material is used here but instead there is a silicone sealant. Due to the fact that differential unit is a quite complicated drive unit, which often needs the application of specific tools, it is recommended to get any serious job done by the local authorized dealer or the qualified repair center.