Inspect for proper gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis.

Loose propeller shaft mounting bolts

Tighten the bolts as required. Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint.

Replace the propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement .

A worn propeller shaft constant velocity joint may create a clicking, grinding, or snapping type of noise.

Worn or loose center bearing assembly

Replace the center bearing assembly as required.

A worn center bearing assembly may cause vehicle vibration or a grinding or squealing type of noise.

Worn universal joints

Replace the universal joints as required.

A worn universal joint may create a clicking or a snapping type of noise.

Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement .

Worn axle shaft constant velocity joints.

Replace or repair the constant velocity joints as required.

A worn axle shaft constant velocity joint may create a clicking, grinding, or snapping type of noise.

Refer to Symptoms - Rear Drive Axle .

Transfer case noise

Refer to Symptoms - Transfer Case .

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushings (Side)

Check the bushing position and replace the bushings as required. A worn bushing may create a clunk type of noise during acceleration or deceleration or wrong orientation.

Refer to Differential Housing Support Bushing Replacement .

Worn or damaged axle mounting bushings (Rear)

Replace the bushings as required.

A worn bushing may create a clunk type of noise during acceleration or deceleration.

Refer to Differential Housing Support Bushing Replacement .

Loose rear mounting bracket

Tighten the bracket bolts as required.

Refer to Fastener Tightening Specifications .

Loose or damaged prop guard

Repair or replace as required.

A loose dust shield may contact the propeller shaft assembly and create a scraping or grinding type of noise.

Bearing noise within axle assembly

A grinding or roar type of noise will increase or decrease relative to vehicle speed.

1. Check for the proper fluid level. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
2. If the noise continues, repair or replace the unit as required.

Gear set whine noise within axle assembly created by incorrect gear backlash

A whine type of noise will increase or decrease relative to vehicle speed.

1. Check for the proper fluid level. Refer to Rear Axle Lubricant Replacement .
2. Repair or replace the unit as required.