Rear End noise

GRIFFIN 6

MEMBER
JEEP CHEROKEE

I have a 1999 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, part time 4WD, 6 cyl with 161000 miles. I'm the original owner and have performed all of the post-warranty maintenance. I noticed a metal on metal rubbing noice coming from the rear end (Dana 35 rear axle). In trying to pin point the noice I sat in the back, used an auto stethescope and walked along side while my wife drove and cannot pinpoint the noise. It sounds like it is coming from either the driver side rear hub or differential. It is a rubbing metal on metal (sounds like whoosh whoosh whoosh) which has remained constant in noise level. I replaced the rear discs, brake pads and rotated the tires. The sound remains and increased in tempo with speed, but is not affected when I apply the brakes. It just slows in tempo. I pulled the drivers side rear axle and pressed on a new outer bearing. I also pulled the differential cover and inspected for metal shavings. There was no sign of metal chips, or dust. I put it all back togather and still have the sound. BTW, I also replaced the rear U-Joints. Possible bad pinion bearing? Any ideas? Thanks.

1 Reply

GRIFFIN 6

MEMBER
3 POSTS

The driver side differential bearing "race" was scored and caused the "whossh" noice each time the axle rotated. The noise traveled throughout the axle case, thus was difficult (if not impossible) to pinpoint. New bearing and races, which cost less than $50.00 fixed the problem. This do it yourself job kept the vehicle out of the shop and in itself paid for all the Christmas presents.