Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) Loud grinding sound from rear end!

[ARoss]

Since I feel like smashing the keyboard, I'll make this short.



Sounds like someone crunching sheet metal. Coming from the rear end somewhere, hard to pinpoint, but it's very loud. Sounds like bearings to me, but I could be wrong ... somebody shoot me now!



How big a job is the rear bearings?

 

[Mundgyver]

If you have the right tools, it should be pretty straight forward, if not, you will be hate'ing life.

 

[ARoss]

The right tools?



I have a decent assortment, but is there anything specialized about the job?

 

[Mundgyver]

If you will be pulling the ring gear and everything out, you will more than likely need a case spreader to allow you to remove the gear unit. Otherwise you will have a nasty time of it. Depends on what you find wrong. Sounds like you will want to do a complete rebuild. 1st thing is to get a book on the axle or the factory manual. To me that is the very first requirement, as it has all the specs and list anything special you will need. Basic hand tools should be enough, but there are a couple of nice to have items. Seal puller, bearing puller, case spreader, and access to a good parts suppler.

 

[Joe Mc]

I think I recall someone having a case spreader that he didn't mind loaning if the party wishing to borrow paid shipping both ways? Also, I recall that there are a few ways to stack the clutch disks and plates that will yeild better service. Do a search on "Case Spreader" and "Clutch Stacking". Should get some results - it was about 9-10 months ago I recall seeing the info. Good Luck to ya.

Did you check for excessive pinion play or drop the cover yet? Keep us posted.

 

[B.G. Smith]

Since I feel like smashing the keyboard, I'll make this short.



Sounds like someone crunching sheet metal. Coming from the rear end somewhere, hard to pinpoint, but it's very loud. Sounds like bearings to me, but I could be wrong ... somebody shoot me now!



How big a job is the rear bearings?

If you have the two piece drive shaft and I suspect you do with the long bed, check the center support bearing on the drive shaft before you tear into the rear end. bg

 

[ARoss]

Maybe I'm not being clear enough, but I believe the differential is fine. It's the axle bearings. I have not checked the carrier bearing, as the noise sounds like it's coming from further back. Also, someone mentioned a U joint, could this be?



Anyone know if there's much work in the axle/wheel bearings?

 

[ARoss]

Call off the dogs!



Jacked it up and rotated the wheels. Sound was coming from the passenger's side. Pulled the wheel/drum and discovered the retaining clip and spring assembly for the shoe had broken ... thank God!



Thanks to all for your input!