Differential not doing so hot
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 3,128
Likes: 3
From: Deltona (son of Deland and DAYTONA) FL
Differential not doing so hot
GAH! I changed my diff fluid last weekend, put the GM additive in and it solved the clunking noise. It has been whining a lot at hwy speeds and seems to be getting louder. Last night when I put the spare tire carrier back in (had spare tire lock issues) I noticed some gear oil coming from the sides and maybe the pinion seal area.
Here's my question: are the side and front bearings and seals difficult to install? I don't have my book in front of me right now, but is the front bearing pressed on the pinion shaft? How difficult is installing a rebuilt unit?
This is going to gnaw at me until I get home and crack the Haynes manual. Wish my GM books would get here! :eek:
[Modified by isosceles, 3:04 PM 4/11/2003]
Here's my question: are the side and front bearings and seals difficult to install? I don't have my book in front of me right now, but is the front bearing pressed on the pinion shaft? How difficult is installing a rebuilt unit?
This is going to gnaw at me until I get home and crack the Haynes manual. Wish my GM books would get here! :eek:
[Modified by isosceles, 3:04 PM 4/11/2003]
Burning Brakes
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 1,102
Likes: 0
From: spring city pa
Re: Differential not doing so hot (isosceles)
The front seal can be replaced without tearing down the rear , unfortunately the side seal are a horse of a different color . You will have to pull the stub axles to replace the seals . It would be good idea considering the noise problem .
geo :crazy:
geo :crazy:
Instructor
Joined: Mar 2002
Posts: 238
Likes: 1
From: Conyers GA
Re: Differential not doing so hot (isosceles)
FYI....my rear is apart now. I was hearing a whining noise and decided to take a look. The left side carrier bearing was starting to flake.
Catch it early and all you will need to replace is the bearings....wait too long and it will damage other parts.... :eek: :cry
Good luck.
Catch it early and all you will need to replace is the bearings....wait too long and it will damage other parts.... :eek: :cry
Good luck.
Le Mans Master
Joined: Feb 1999
Posts: 8,351
Likes: 75
From: Tampa Bay FL
Re: Differential not doing so hot (Stewart's74)
Removal of the driveshaft is essential. Even then, considering the frame/x-member is in the way, I'd drop the rear diff completely and then replace the front yoke seal along with the other seals, bearings and races (rebuild). You'll probably find other items that need attention while you are at it (side yokes, half-shafts, bearing assemblies, etc.). They all seem to wear out about the same time (my experience).
Thread Starter
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2002
Posts: 3,128
Likes: 3
From: Deltona (son of Deland and DAYTONA) FL
Re: Differential not doing so hot (gtr1999)
Thanks guys. I'm finally home and checked my Haynes Manual. You are WAY more help than my book. It states that repairs to the differential should be done at a certified repair shop or something like that. :crazy: I guess I just need to see how much a core charge is on a rebuilt one and just figure that into whether I try to rebuild it myself. If i mess mine up it could be 375-575 + core. If I am successful, I've seen rebuild kits for about $100 that include bearings, saving me a bundle. Hmm, looks like it might be worth a shot with some coaching from CF! :smash:
