GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Cause

Correction

Inspect for the proper transaxle and gear oil levels prior to performing system diagnosis. Refer to Transfer Case Fluid Replacement.

Water or contamination within the lubricant

Water or contamination within the lubricant, causing excessive torque converter clutch slip rate, may create a grind, growl, or moan in the rear differential or torque tube under light or steady load conditions.

Replace the lubricant and flush the transfer case of the contaminated fluid. Refer to Internal Components Cleaning and Inspection.

Loose propeller shaft mounting bolts

Tighten the bolts, as required. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement.

Worn propeller shaft constant velocity joints

Replace propeller shaft assembly. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement.

Worn axle shaft constant velocity joints

Replace the constant velocity joints, as required.

Loose rear axle torque tube bracket or a worn bracket bushing

Tighten the bracket bolts or replace the bracket, as required.

Worn bearing in the rear differential torque tube assembly

Replace the torque tube assembly.

Torque tube dampener loose or missing

A moan or exhaust leak type noise at higher engine speeds, approximately 2,000-2,500 RPM, may indicate a loose or missing dampener.

Tighten the dampener retaining bolt or replace the torque tube assembly, as required.

Incorrect gear oil in the transfer case

Replace the gear oil. Refer to Adhesives, Fluids, Lubricants, and Sealers.

Bearing noise within the transfer case

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

  1. Inspect for the proper fluid level. Fill, as required.
  2. If the noise continues, repair or replace the internal components, as required.

Gear set whine noise within the transfer case

Whine type noises will increase or decrease relative to the vehicle speed.

  1. Inspect for the proper fluid level. Fill, as required.
  2. If the noise continues, repair or replace the internal components, as required.
  3. Contributing factors may include:

    • Incorrect backlash between the gear sets
    • Worn or damaged gear teeth
    • Transaxle assembly noise
    • Rear differential noise