noise in front diff('03 Z71)

[ColeTrains03]

I've just lately noticed some howling/ grining between the speeds of 15-50/55. I can't hear it at all(may be too fast) after that. Anyway it does it in 2wd or 4wd, makes no difference. It's got a new passangers wheel bearing but an original(146k miles) on the drivers one. I'm thinking of tossing in a new one as the passenger side one when it came out was toast. But here's the kicker i've noticed little to no difference in sound if i take load off the drivers bearing or not. There is a change in sound but it's not much. I'm guessing i may have a front carrier bearing or 2 going out but what should i expect for a repair like that in terms of cost. Just trying to get an idea of the cost if it comes to that

[Chris]

might be in the front diff, or a pinion bearing

[Silverado4x4]

I would change the driver side bearing as you say the passenger side was toast. Should have change both at that time as when one goes the other isn't far behind.

 

If your taking the load off the driver side and do not hear a difference in sound, there should be no sound at all when you spin the wheel.

[FargoZ71]

I've just lately noticed some howling/ grining between the speeds of 15-50/55. I can't hear it at all(may be too fast) after that. Anyway it does it in 2wd or 4wd, makes no difference. It's got a new passangers wheel bearing but an original(146k miles) on the drivers one. I'm thinking of tossing in a new one as the passenger side one when it came out was toast. But here's the kicker i've noticed little to no difference in sound if i take load off the drivers bearing or not. There is a change in sound but it's not much. I'm guessing i may have a front carrier bearing or 2 going out but what should i expect for a repair like that in terms of cost. Just trying to get an idea of the cost if it comes to that

Check the front diff level?

[Badass69]

Check level and run some oil out in your hand. If its full of metal you have bearing issues.

[FargoZ71]

Check level and run some oil out in your hand. If its full of metal you have bearing issues.

 

This.

 

My 2003 Silvy does the same howling, the drivers side front diff seals are prone to leaking, mine just stays wet at the seal, but I have to top it off spring/ fall or it will actually throw a 4x4 service until I refill the diff. Usually only a 1/5th of a quart for me and it goes away and is back up to the fill plug. I changed my diff fluids around 75k ( got it with 64k) and they were clean as a whistle.. just was preventative I'm at 107k so far and like I said, I just top it off and mine goes away.