How can I tell if it's limited slip? I'm pretty sure its the standard chrysler 9 1/4 Axle assembly.

 

1-10, how much difficulty am I in for? I managed to install my transmission (solo with lifting partner) but I tore some hair out in the process LOL

 

Get a build sheet for your truck from here. (equipment listing) That'll tell ya if it came from the factory with LSD.

 

3.92 Rear Axle Ratio
Corporate 9.25 LD Rear Axle
Anti-Spin Differential Rear Axle

Thank you for that build sheet link, I had no idea that resourse was available!

 

The rude noises on sharp turns is likely because of a lack of the friction modifier require by the LSD. You can get a bottle at any parts store.

I have a collection of 'useful links' bookedmarked in my browser.

 

I added some of that Friction Modifier and the turning noise is done with, but I'm still left with the coasting whine, which oddly fluctuates intensity randomly (sometimes its worse than other times). I guess I'm asking for opinion here, but I consider myself an experienced amateur mechanic to maybe intermediate home mechanic. If I go into this with the intention of a full rear-end overhaul, will I be in over my head? I need to be able to be finished within 72 hours of opening up... I can't afford ($1295 lowest quote of 7) to have a shop perform the work/pick up where I left off see as though I just dumped $2k in for my tranny/driveshaft/misc./tools associated.

 

Think I would try JUST the outer pinion bearing/seal first, and see if that doesn't solve it. If you go full-boat rebuild, you will need some precision measuring tools, (which you can probably rent from the parts store) and the knowledge to use them. Might want to read thru the procedure in the service manual a couple times, to get an idea of what you are getting yourself in to. Also likely going to need a press, and the bearing tool for it..... and the long adjusting tool for carrier backlash adjustment. Yeah, it's fun. Check it out, see what you think.

 

What was the deal with the original Ujoint failure? Was it just an old joint that failed or had something else been done in the drivetrain that may have led to the failure? Was is making any noise before it broke that you are hearing now?

 

I botched a first-time repair listening to some bad advice. I learned ALWAYS rent the press! I tried the hammer and two opposing sockets method and severely damaged the aluminum 'Yoke' of the driveshaft and had no idea it was damaged until I was going 80 on the interstate 150 miles (and a $400 Tow) away from my boss's shop. I'm about to replace the whole rear axle too, all from a failed $50 repair in my garage... Now I go by the book