Is this freeplay normal?

[IronMonkeyL255]

Under the car looking up at the rear diff. I can wiggle both the left and right CV axle and see some play where the stubs go into the the diff housing (as in the stubs that the axles attach to move).

It's only a bit, but I am starting to wonder if my diff is dying. lately I have been hearing a slight grinding noise from the rear when starting moving, but may be blowing it out of proportion. I checked the wheel bearings and didn't notice anything unusual. It may be a dragging pad, but I doubt it.

Was looking through my FSM, and it really didn't give a good explanation as to what is within normal specs for this type of movement.

I know my right side seal is leaking, but it has always had plenty of gear oil, and I just fairly recently switched to Motul. The fluid that came out was none too fresh, but there were no obvious pieces coming out with it or stuck to the drain plug. I just checked my fluid level, and it is still quite full and fresh looking.

I really don't want to rebuild this thing, but will if I have to.


edit: and also, what seems to be the going rate for 3.9 LSDs?

[IronMonkeyL255]

Wow..... 23 views and no replies........

I'm disappointed.

It definitely is coming from the rear diff. I put in the FWD fuse, and it went away.

[BAC5.2]

Diff could be bad, but there is going to be some play in the axles. Axle play is not an indication of a dead differential.

[IronMonkeyL255]

Is grinding bearing noise?

[92ss satinsvoice]

all the times ive heard wheel bearings go out is they make a humming sound.

but your might be diffrent.

good luck, Andrew

[IronMonkeyL255]

I have double and triple checked the wheel bearings. No play whatsoever. Did find out I have a blown right rear strut in the process, though.

Also just replaced the front right bearing which seized and chewed the hell out of the hub assembly. It was grinding. Then again, once I removed the axle nut and the brakes, the hub came out in my hand.........

I figure it is one of the side bearings, since it only seems to make noise when the drivetrain is loaded (accelerating and keeping constant speed) and when I put in the FWD fuse, it effectively stopped (still hear a bit of something, but it is much MUCH quieter).