Hey guys,

I have a chry8.25 with 4.56 gears and there is a howling coming from the rear. I am convinced it is the differential bearings so I plan on having the differential rebuilt with new bearings, but before I do, does anyone think that wheel bearing in the rear could actually be the culprit. I just want to make sure I am addressing the correct problem. Thanks for your help.

 

Does it howl all the time or when on the gas, letting off the gas. If it's when you get on it or let off it's not bearings but your ring and pinion. If they aren't set up right they will develop a howl. Also disconnect the drive shaft and see if you have play in the pinion because it can make a bit of noise as well.

 

Failed pinion bearings on an 8.25" are not unheard of. If you need someone to rebuild the axle for you, let me know.

 

I noticed that after I adjusted the pinion angle with shims, the sound increased. It's probably due to the pinion no longer having a downward pressure from the driveshaft now that it is correctly aligned. So I am pretty sure now that the pinion bearings are to blame. And it is a constant churning sound that increases the faster I go.

Thanks for the offer to help Frank. I ended up getting a ridiculous deal at 4WP though due to labor being half off today, so I am paying about $120 in labor for them to rebuild the axle later this week. I will definitely be keeping you in mind when it comes to steering in the near future though.