Diff Noise
Thread Starter
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 40,995
Likes: 9,759
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
Diff Noise
Was running an autocross today and after a couple of runs I noticed the diff (I think it was the diff) started making a humming noise when I turned sharp left or right. Is this a sign the diff bearings are starting to go?
Bill
Bill
Tech Contributor
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 2,843
Likes: 16
From: Howell Michigan
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11
Bill,
I would expect it to be a wheel bearing before a diff bearing. With a sharp turn you would be putting more of a load on the wheel bearings.
Keep us posted on what you find.
Eric D
I would expect it to be a wheel bearing before a diff bearing. With a sharp turn you would be putting more of a load on the wheel bearings.
Keep us posted on what you find.
Eric D
Melting Slicks
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 2,464
Likes: 2
From: Cedarburg, WI
Thread Starter
Tech Contributor
Joined: Oct 1999
Posts: 40,995
Likes: 9,759
From: Charlotte, NC (formerly Endicott, NY)
It makes the sound when turning both ways which would mean two bearings. However, the sound is not the growling noise the wheel bearings make but a true humming sound (like a person humming). The reason I suspected the diff is whatever is making the noise it doesn't sound anything like the bearings that have gone bad previously.
Bill
Bill
Le Mans Master
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 7,251
Likes: 16
From: Phoenix Arizona
It makes the sound when turning both ways which would mean two bearings. However, the sound is not the growling noise the wheel bearings make but a true humming sound (like a person humming). The reason I suspected the diff is whatever is making the noise it doesn't sound anything like the bearings that have gone bad previously.
Bill
Bill
i highly recommend Redline shockproof !!!!!!!!!
Tech Contributor
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 2,843
Likes: 16
From: Howell Michigan
St. Jude Donor '09-'10-'11
Bill,
You stated you hear it during a turn, is the humming sound the same during power on to power off? Does it change in pitch with speed? Do you hear it at all speeds and at which speed do you hear it the worst?
Eric D
You stated you hear it during a turn, is the humming sound the same during power on to power off? Does it change in pitch with speed? Do you hear it at all speeds and at which speed do you hear it the worst?
Eric D
Drifting
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,544
Likes: 208
From: Huntersville, NC
I had a similar noise. Thought it might be a tire problem. Replaced the tires [they were about gone], but the noise stayed on. After the tires, it was pretty clear I had a bearing going out, similar symptoms to yours. I replaced the RR hub bearing, thanks to the help of this very excellent thread: http://www.jakelatham.com/C5/misc/ . The only thing I did different was to use an air powered muffler chisel between the CV housing and the lower ball joint nut. I tried the ball joint fork as described and mine would not work. There is also discussion on this board that the bolts holding the brake caliper should be replaced every time. I did not, but if I was racing, I would probably consider that step.
I didn't realize just how noisy that bearing was in the cockpit. Now the radio sounds great. I busted out the old bearing, and it was just about to go. no grease and very black races and bearings.
I didn't realize just how noisy that bearing was in the cockpit. Now the radio sounds great. I busted out the old bearing, and it was just about to go. no grease and very black races and bearings.
Drifting
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 1,783
Likes: 0
From: Coral Springs Fl
I run Sebring and Homestead road course, been to ER and also do alot of drag racing. I am leaning toward a wheel bearing or maybe even both. You would hear the diff during forward motion mostly. I would start by changing the diff fluid with Royal Purple or Redline. I use Redline. Be sure to put the GM additive in with the fluid. If that doesn't take care of it, do both bearings. If 1 went bed the other may decide to anytime too. Regarding the brake bolts, I have removed mine at least 30 times each for many reasons. They are fine to reuse!!
If you are interested in joining a great group of vette owners, check out www.corvettechallengemmp.com or e-mail me at clark.mc@hotmail.com. We may be adding auto x to our events this year when Moroso if finished.
If you are interested in joining a great group of vette owners, check out www.corvettechallengemmp.com or e-mail me at clark.mc@hotmail.com. We may be adding auto x to our events this year when Moroso if finished.
Corvette Stories
The Best of Corvette for Corvette Enthusiasts
2027 Corvette vs The World: Every Model vs Closest Competitor
Joe Kucinski
10 Most Common Corvette Problems of the Last 20 Years!
Joe Kucinski
5 MOST and 5 LEAST Popular Corvette Model Years in History!
Joe Kucinski
2027 Corvette Buyer's Guide: Everything You Need to Know!
Joe Kucinski
10 Things C8 Corvette Owners Hate (But Won't Tell You)
Joe Kucinski
10 Best Corvettes Coming to Barrett-Jackson Palm Beach 2026!
Brett Foote
Every Corvette Grand Sport Explained! (C2, C4, C6, C7, & C8)
Joe Kucinski
Grand Sport & Grand Sport X Launch Alongside All-New 535hp LS6 V8!
Michael S. Palmer
5 Reasons Bad Drivers Crash & 5 Ways to Avoid a Costly Mistake!
Joe Kucinski
Tech Contributor
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 10,962
Likes: 29
From: Van Buren Arkansas
Wounded Warrior Escort '11
I had a similar noise. Thought it might be a tire problem. Replaced the tires [they were about gone], but the noise stayed on. After the tires, it was pretty clear I had a bearing going out, similar symptoms to yours. I replaced the RR hub bearing, thanks to the help of this very excellent thread: http://www.jakelatham.com/C5/misc/ . The only thing I did different was to use an air powered muffler chisel between the CV housing and the lower ball joint nut. I tried the ball joint fork as described and mine would not work. There is also discussion on this board that the bolts holding the brake caliper should be replaced every time. I did not, but if I was racing, I would probably consider that step.
I didn't realize just how noisy that bearing was in the cockpit. Now the radio sounds great. I busted out the old bearing, and it was just about to go. no grease and very black races and bearings.
I didn't realize just how noisy that bearing was in the cockpit. Now the radio sounds great. I busted out the old bearing, and it was just about to go. no grease and very black races and bearings.