I have a 1997 3500 van with loud whining noise from rear. What are likelycauses?
thanks,
jdr37

 

Mine had begun howling in 2010, then the howling turned into loud grinding and no forward motion when the rear end went out. I don't clearly recall but believe it was the axle and bearing on driver side was toast and the other side soon to follow. better get it looked at, it ain't cheap.

 

spider gears?

 

I should have mentioned that mine whines only when under load but when let off accelerater whine stops. Is this common for a u-joint or differential problem such as worn ring and pinion or bearings?

 

Worn pinion bearings.

 

Thanks alloro, that's what I was thinking, but wanting another opin before I get quotes. You got any idea on labor hours for replacinfg the bearings?

 

Figure about $600 or so.