Hello, everyone. I haven't been here for a while, but everyone was most helpful the last time, so I'm back.
My 2000 Durango started grinding from the rear two days ago. The brakes are fine, so, after some searching, I am assuming it is something in the rear differential. My problem is, where do we start? It began grinding for no apparent reason. Other than that, it runs great. I would think that we should start with the fluid and see what it looks like inside. But I'm not sure what it is supposed to look like inside. If something is broken or worn, will it be easily noticed? I'm just trying to get whatever information I can before my husband starts checking things out. I would rather try to see what is wrong ourselves, before sending it to the shop. I'm just going crazy over this. I love my Durango and I want it fixed asap. Any advice you can give will be so much appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

 

If you have LSD then you need friction modifier in there. This is the most common problem with the rear diff going bad is just not getting it in on the fluid chenge. If it has been a while since then I'd say get the fluid replaced and make sure to get the friction modifier in there. Do a search on it for more info if you need it there are tons of posts on this subject.

 

If it's more of a whine, it's likely a bearing. I had the chrome come off of the race on a bearing and it sounded similar. Myself, I'd pull the cover off of the differential and have a look see. Also, when you have your differential serviced, (fluid changed) don't let them syphon the fluid out and refill it. Make them pull the cover and spray it out with brake cleaner and then reassemble and refill. Don't forget the front differential either, as well as the transfer case too.

Mark