Noisey Diff... need advice

[GOLDS]

My rear diff has become really loud in the last few months. I was listening with a stethoscope, loudest near the pinion. I'm thinking about changing the outer pinion bearing since its easy to do. Anybody had any luck with this?

I don't really want to spend the big money on the entire diff rebuild :( If I do then maybe its time for a locker...

Thanks in advance,
Chris

[all_terrain17]

How are you listening to the diff while it's in motion?

[Tankota]

How are you listening to the diff while it's in motion?


I've done it before, support the rear end on jackstands and put it in gear. If you need to load it, have someone give it while stepping on the brakes.


What kind of noise is it, does it seem like gear rattle or bearing whine.
I imagine you've checked your diff oil and ruled out low fluid levels already.
Also, see if there seems like excessive rotational play in the driveline with the park brake set.

As for bearing change, I've never had to do that to mine so iI dont know much about it.

[GOLDS]

I had the truck up on a hoist with the apprentice driving.

It is a loud and low pitch bearing whine, no excessive backlash, and yes the fluid is topped up and reasonably new.

When I was listening with the stethoscope noise was loudest near pinion.

Any idea how long these diffs last without a rebuild? I have 285000km

[Tankota]

Any idea how long these diffs last without a rebuild? I have 285000km


What would that be in miles. Mine had about 240,000 miles before I geared and locked them, it was still running just fine.
I think you could be almost 100% thats its the pinyon bearing just worn out. I know trucks with a nose high diff angle are more likely to burn pinyon bearings. I take it yours is stock locating.
This might just be the perfect excuse for low gears and lockers. :thumbup:

[d0ubledown]

probably your pinion bearing. pull it out, and have it rebuilt w/ new bearings. might as well throw in an aussie or whatever while its cracked open. with regular fluid change and maintenance, they should last well into the 500+KM. been in the dunk lately? got proper breathers too?