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97 explorer 300k+ vibrations

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Fig
This may be a log post but have 3 questions. My 1997 5.0 awd explorer has over 300k miles( odometer broke at 297 years ago, worm gear fine). We have had it since 100k so I have worked a lot on her.
Working on highway vibrations 60mph plus. 1st question I changed out the front cv axles witch helped but now have a rubber squel at low speed. Seems like where the axle meets the hub. Any ideas what it is?
I pulled all drive shafts an checked u joints, all good. Replaced the third shock on the rear end which helped. I noticed when in the air the rear wheels have a little up down play. No noise and feel smooth. 2nd question would the play in the rear axle bearing cause vibrations and need replaced?
Last one, on the highway going up hills the ac switches from the dash vents to the floor. Going down hills or letting off the gas dash vents comes back on. Vacuum leak but where do I start looking?
Thank you for reading this.
KELLY
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Action
Reverse order -
AC issue is due to loss or lack of vacuum.
Getting a vacuum diagram to trace the lines and parts is the best next step.
Likely there is a vacuum reservoir in the system with a check valve. These may be combined or separate.
You will need a vacuum pump or gauge to test.
It is common that the check valve is not sealing.
Other areas would be at the end of a connection. Cracked or split ends are common as well. Treat those and all rubber/plastic pieces with a conditioner.

Yes play in any drive train piece can cause a vibration
What speed? If you accelerate past the speed and then drift down to that speed in neutral can the vibration still be felt?

Action
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Fig
Begins around 60mph. Get worse as speed increases. Have not tried neutral coast down, just letting off the gas.
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Fig
When replacing the rear wheel bearings should I buy the axle and bearing kit, since I have up down play and 300+ thousand miles on it.
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Action
Many rear axle bearings are pressed onto the axle shaft.
I am just not sure. You might look at the shop manual.

Action
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Fig
The bearing is pressed into the axle housing. But with a flat style roller bearing do you think it's eaten into the axle?
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Action
That is not usually where the wear happens.
Usually the wear occurs in the ball bearings and on the race.

Action
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