Whine Grind Or Clunk Noise From The Rear Axle - keywords adjuster bearing differential

The following diagnosis might be helpful if the vehicle exhibits the symptom(s) described in this PI.

ustomers may comment on a whine, grind or clunk noise from the rear axle at speeds above approximately 30 MPH (50 kph). This condition only applies to 10.5" rear axle assemblies, which are used on 2500 and 3500 Series pickups equipped with a 6.0L engine. The 10.5" rear axle is identified by having a pinion cartridge assembly bolted to the front of the axle housing. During disassembly, technicians may notice a loss of side bearing pre-load, or possible looseness of the differential case assembly and side bearings.

The concern may be caused by a loose side bearing adjuster. The looseness may be caused by the threads in the housing being cut incorrectly. The adjuster may thread in, but when it is tightened to obtain pre-load, the adjuster may slip a thread in the housing. With the differential case assembly removed, if the adjuster on one side is noticeably looser in its threaded bore than the other side or slips when trying to attain pre-load, the axle housing will need to be replaced. If the vehicle was driven extensively with this condition, additional components such as bearings or the ring and pinion may also show abnormal amounts of wear. Please repair or replace the axle in the most cost effective way.

Please follow this diagnostic or repair process thoroughly and complete each step. If the condition exhibited is resolved without completing every step, the remaining steps do not need to be performed.