One problem related to axle shaft has been reported for the 1998 Ford Explorer. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Bearing failed caused by dirt passing by seal/ causing squeak in front l/r sides / will cause bearing fail "Ford service manager has stated that Ford knows is "only front drive train componet not covered. Have had to request past recalls to be done after 8 times being told they did it, I found out was lied to and had to contact you in past to get Ford to fix. Atty. General az has complaint filed.