I would say you have bad bearings in the rear had the same problem i replaced the outer bearings when that didnt fix it i replaced the bearings inside the rear. new crush collar and i had a real mechanic help me that was a huge help.

 

I would think bad pinion bearing too. Poss. gears worn but just keep driving it til it breaks. Just have a buddy with you to pull you out or give you a ride home when you go wheeling.

 

All right, maybe I'm just jealous that you have a grander Grand.

 

Unless it really bothers you or you feel like spending money I say if it ain't broke don't fix it. The tech's just trying to pad his hours January is usually a pretty slow month.

 

Dana 35 i believe

 

I hear ya on that one bud!

 

If it's a 4.0 it's probably a d35, if it's a V8, it's probably a d44. The 44 is an aluminum case. 35's are plentiful in salvage yards and are reasonably priced. You'll spend $$ putting a new gearset in yours, and it's critical it be done right. IMO, get a good used replacement and keep it handy as a backup till yours s**** the bed.

 

When it comes to noises that aren't from the engine or trans, the best fix is a louder stereo system.