Rear end whine - worry or live with it?

[nesbit]

Hi,

I hopefully got this in the right forum area. My 2003 ranger w/27000 miles has developed the rear end whine, which I now read is a common problem. It whines around 40MPH when on the gas and goes away when off the gas.

I've read one post saying that this is the pinion/ring and doesn't effect durability. Another post said it was rear end bearings, which I suspect would effect durability.

I guess my question is, is this noise more of an annoyance, or an indicator of impending trouble?

Thanks!
Chad

 

[BRUTUS_T_HOG]

Noise is abnormal. 27,000mi or 270,000mi?

Noise under light loads is typically pinion bearings which isn't a huge problem the fix.

Noise while accelerating suggests a worn ring and pinion which would call for a total overhaul.

 

[nesbit]

27000. Lightly used once a week. Can this be left go for a while until the noise gets louder?

 

[dla]

27000. Lightly used once a week. Can this be left go for a while until the noise gets louder?

At least check the fluid. First, make sure you have some. Second, look for "sparkles" (metal flakes).

 

[adsm08]

If the truck is used lightly once a week, as you say, you can probably let it go for some time without risking a catastrophic failure. If it was a daily driver I would be looking to get it taken care of ASAP.

As it is, I would go to the junk yard, find something that will meet your needs, and then sit on it until you get a real bad noise.

 

[bobbywalter]

yeah....jack it up and look at the fluid and check the play.


fluid is imperative, level and condition. losing the rear axleshaft or locking up the diff and skidding out of control and killing a few families can cause an issueor two on the way to work.

if level and condition look ok, and nothing is loose then i would say its reasonable to run it. just keep an eye on it.