beacomt
Gen I
 
12/13/2010
20:21:24
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 Subject: front differential noise
IP: Logged
Message:
I have '99 dodge dakota, 4wd, 5.2L, V8. It has 126,980 miles on it. A few weeks ago it started making a whining noise in the front end. It only does it under load (gas pedal pressed). Depending on the grade of the hill, it may or may not make the noise. The whining sound starts around 38MPH and gets higher in pitch until I can't hear it, around 65mph.
I have checked for play in the front wheel bearings and do not see any. The one was replaced about 10,000 miles ago and the other side about 30,000 miles ago. I checked the fluid in the front differential and as soon as I remove the plug fluid slowly runs out. I have also checked for play in the front pinion (push front drive shaft up and down) and there isn't any. The universal joints are fine. The dealer was supposed change the fluid in the front and rear about 50,000 miles ago. I have to assume the dealer did it.
My dealer repair manual lists the possible problems as (1) low fluid, (2) incorrect fluid, or (3) incorrect backlash.
Are there any additional checks I should do before taking it somewhere to have the backlash checked? Any suggestions are greatly appreciated.
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