I recently started hearing a noise coming from the rear end of the truck, mainly while decelerating (could possibly be at higher speeds, but cannot hear it over the exhaust). The sound is proportional to the speed of the truck, so faster, then slower as i slow down.
It sounds as if the rear tire was rubbing on the fender liner(that was my initial thought, but i checked and made sure it wasnt that). So its not a "metal on metal" grinding sound per say, but more like a growling type sound.
I have read it could be anything from the u joints in the drive shaft to the pinion bearing. I am currently at school and do not have too many tools on hand. But my question is where can i start to try and diagnosis where this sound is coming from and if its something that needs immediate attention.
Is it easy to check the rear end fluid level? would that be a good start?
I'll definitely check out the u joints, can I just get under there and yank on it a few different directions or should I try and bring down the drive shaft?
If anything I'm hoping it's something I can't wait to replace/fix till I get back from school...
"Nothing wrong" wouldn't be too bad either, but the noise bothers the hell outta me haha.
It's not likely to seize up, but if it is the carrier bearing the majority of the noise you're hearing is likely the backside or coast side of the ring gear and pinion wearing. Wear means metal shavings. Metal shavings mean increased wear on the front side or pull side of the gears.
Any suggestions of places to purchase a carrier bearing? is OEM ford the best option? Can't seem to find it on Auto Nation ford, Anyone have a part number?
Well I got under the truck yesterday, the carrier bearing is pretty tight, no movement in that. The u joints were solid, I did not drop the driveshaft to see if the u joints were frozen or not.
were your u joints frozen or loose?
I guess either the joints are frozen up and making noise, or the pinion is on its way out?
Alright, Well sounds like ill be dropping the drive shaft and doing some investigating. Might just do some U joints since ill be taking it apart. Also grease that slip joint down there.
Thanks NYC,
Though not very familiar with the rear end parts, i assume these are parts inside the rear.. pinion/axle?
Nice thing about a ford diff is that there is no set up on a carrier. Its already shimmed. Just make sure you don't switch the two. You sort of can't since it won't go back together. Another words the ring gear will be really far from the pinion so its kind of obvious. Changing carrier bearings is pretty straight forward. When you pull off the old bearings be careful. There are shims (sometimes) under them. Be sure to save/reuse them and not damage them.
Edit: oops didn't know we were talking about driveshaft carrier bearing. :doh:
OP a visual inspection of a u joint and or carrier bearing isn't enough. You need to unbolt the item and move it by hand to feel for any resistance. Everything should spin/pivot freely. Good Luck
Thank you all for the replies!
I will most likely be dropping the driveshaft this weekend or next for full inspection and also grease that darn slip joint! :laugh:
sorry for the nomenclature confusion! On the plus side, i learned a few things! :thumb:
This is an older thread, you may not receive a response, and could be reviving an old thread. Please consider creating a new thread.
Related Threads
?
?
?
?
?
Ford Powerstroke Diesel Forum
5.4M posts
265.8K members
Since 2005
A forum community dedicated to Ford F-series owners and enthusiasts with a Power Stroke diesel engine. Come join the discussion about performance, bulletproofing, modifications, classifieds, troubleshooting, maintenance, and more!