GEN 1 Pinion Bearings - DIY or Hire Out?

[pat247]

Part of being a DIYer is knowing where to draw the line, some things need to be handled by the professionals. Having the proper tools amd experience are needed to do the job in a timely manner. I don't mind paying for expertise if the job gets done correctly.

 

[Gumby]

Part of being a DIYer is knowing where to draw the line, some things need to be handled by the professionals. Having the proper tools amd experience are needed to do the job in a timely manner. I don't mind paying for expertise if the job gets done correctly.

True professionals are in short order these days. Experts are even more Rare. This is (IMO) of most "physical" job fields today. Now You Tube and I.T. Lots of good people out there. LOL

 

[badm0t0rfinger]

My Raptor has had a loud hum/howl going on for a few weeks now. Took it into the dealer today to get it diagnosed and they suspect the pinion bearings have gone out. They drained the rear end and found glitter in the fluid.

The dealer quoted me $2600 to replace. I found a local shop that quoted me $1150 which I don't think is too bad.

Question is, is this a job I could tackle myself? I consider myself to have a good amount of experience for a backyard mechanic. I've done engine rebuilds, transmission swaps, even an auto to manual swap, but I've never messed with gears. I've read that it is better to leave to a shop due to the tolerances and special tools required on differentials. One thing I am worried about is not seeing gear damage that a professional would. Tools-wise I think the biggest thing I am missing is a press but $200 is a lot cheaper than $1200.

What's the consensus? Has anyone done this job?

2014 Gen 1 - 120k miles

Had it happen to me last year, very glad I had someone else do it.