Symptom Diagnosis - Rear Axle

KNOCK AT LOW SPEEDS
The following two conditions may cause low-speed knock:
^ Worn universal joints
^ A worn and oversize side gear hub counterbore in the case
Inspect and replace the universal joints or the case and side gears as needed.

BACKLASH CLUNK
The following conditions may cause excessive clunk during acceleration and deceleration:
^ A worn rear axle pinion shaft
^ A worn case
^ Excessive clearance between the axle and side gear splines
^ Excessive clearance between the side gear hub and the counterbore in the case
^ Worn pinion and side gear teeth
^ Worn thrust washers
^ Excessive drive pinion and ring gear backlash
Remove the worn parts and replace as required. When possible, select close fitting parts. Adjust the pinion and the ring gear backlash.

REAR AXLE BEARING NOISE
A rough rear wheel bearing produces a noise that continues with the vehicle coasting at low speed and the transmission in neutral. Bearing noise may diminish by gentle braking. With the rear wheels jacked up, spin the rear wheels by hand, listen at the hubs for evidence of a rough (noisy) wheel bearing. Refer to Rear Axle Wheel Bearing Wear.