Tranny noise high pitched winning

[Brian.Smith]

I was towing a trailer w/ 4 dirt bikes and all of a sudden there is a loud high pitched noise above 45MPH. Only under power, not when you take your foot off of the gas or when the clutch is in or in neutral. Sounds like its coming from the trsns. Checked fluid level was slightly low. Topped it off no difference. The sound transmits all the way down the drive shaft. HELP it sounds like it's gonna die!! It is a 5 Speed manual

 

[CheapRanger]

Sounds like the damage may be done. What gear were you towing in? Have you checked the U joints? (make sure the sound isn't something like a metal yoke starting to break)

 

[Bryan22]

sure its not the rear end? auto or manual?

 

[Brian.Smith]

It is hard to tell were it is coming from but sounds like the differential. It was REALLY low on gear oil. It took 2 qt. to fill it. I am think it may be an axel bearing or a pinion bearing? It is a 5 speed manual and I was using 4th gear

 

[Bryan22]

ya, try just changing the fluid. Kinda doubt you'll save it... but worth a try. if it has limited slip, dont forget the friction modifier. you might get lucky. and 2 qts is more than 1/2 empty. good luck.