Hi, I am new to the forum and would like some feedback on my problem.
I have a 03 Dodge Ram 1500 4x4 5.7 eng. We hear a loud rumble/growl kind of sound coming from under the truck, specifically in the middle of truck, possibly transfer case???? The noise is speed sensitive, if you know what I mean. We also feel a vibration especially when sitting in the drivers seat. The mechanic is having a hard time identifying what the noise might be. They pulled the wheels to look at the wheel bearings, but everything seems okay. I have already had the front wheel hub assemblys replaced. The mechanic said drive until it gets a bit louder, but I already think it is loud enough. Could it possibly be something to do with the transfer case (maybe output shaft bearing, I think that is what they call it)
Any hints or ideas on what anyone might think this is, would be just great.
Thanks, sporty

 

auto/5spd? how many miles? t-case fluid level/condition
does it make noise in 2wd and 4wd? both?
put it on a lift and have someone "drive" while underneath to listen.
bad u-joint?? they usually dont growl, but the can make a noise and will produce vibes.

ps, find a new mechanic. "drive it till it gets louder" ?????????
louder and far more expensive. I would never suggest that to a paying customer.

 

It is auto with about 105,000 miles. The truck is going in tomorrow so my "mechanic" can look at the level of the transfer case. The level was fine about 25,000 miles ago. That is a great idea about putting it on the lift. I will mention that. U-Joint yeah that is also possibly I was told, but the sound doesn't quite fit. And actually, my mechanic is also our friend and that was just a response I would expect from him. He said it was safe to drive, but I am worried that something real bad will happen.
Anyway thanks for the info.

Sporty

 

Just been reading on another forum a guy had a similar growl type noise like you.
Turned out, his rear axel bearings were shot and his LSD clutch pack retaining clips had let go and there was debris all inside the pumpkin.
He also used his truk until it got so bad he finally took it to the stealership.
They helped on some of the costs and he had his bearings and LSD replaced.
This sounds so sililar to his post IU wonder if it is you who posted on the "other" dodge forum???
Al.

 

just remeber that sound travels, it could be anything, u-joints, rearend, t-case, rear wheel bearings, etc.

 

I have a whine that comes from my truck, but I'm guessing it's because I have the AWD transfer case. It too is a speed sensitive noise, and it has more of a gear whine noise than a growl. Just passing that on in case that's what you are hearing.