Hey all,I've got a 97 dakota sport 4x4,around 160,000 on the clock.The rear is making
some severe grinding noises while turning left and backing up,I suspect the axle bearings are wiped out,but in looking for axles,I can only find them for the 9.25 inch rear and I'm not sure what mine is,is there a quick way to ID it?

 

The 8.25 cover is kind of round, while the 9.25 is shaped similar to a stop sign.

Where are you located? I'm going to have a complete rear end available for sale very soon.

 

I'm in New Jersey shipping would probly be outrageous!Theres a truck salvage yard close to me in PA,I'm gonna check with them this week and see whats cheaper,replace or rebuild

 

1997 you have the 8.25 look in the glove box on the door it should say

If its grinding you are in big trouble the longer you wait the closer to total death it wiil get

 

Yeah thats what I thought,It's probably onna be cheaper and easier to replace the whole rear end

 

Have you pulled the back plate off and looked?

but you will need new oil to put it back together about $20 I think

I have seen compleat rear ends out here go for about $150 to $300 but you need to find the proper gear ratio that will work for you

 

Haven't pulled the cover yet,but pushing on the side of the bed, side to side, it clunks like a loose wheel.The only listings I've found for axles are the Dormans and only for the 9.25 rear.I guess I've gotta check the ratio and see if the salvage yard has one.Are the Durangos compatable or are they 9.25?

 

The easy way to tell what differential you have:

8 1/4 has 10 bolts holding the cover on.
9 1/4 has 12 bolts holding the cover on.

If you're picking up another rear be aware, the mounts vary depending upon 2wd and 4wd.

 

Are you shure its not a suspension problem check everything under the back all the suspension parts rusted out supports so on

 

I gave it a quick once over.but there is suprisingly for Jersey,very little rust.Tomorrow I'll check it out and report what I find.My first thought was u-joints,but I've never had them make that much grinding noise and really only when turning.Anyway thanks for the input,I'll post what I find