So I got a rubbing noise in my rear diff. Metal in my lubricant. $800 at the local shop to replace all the bearings if nothing else is wrong. Anybody know where I can get the torque specs for the ring and pinion gear nut or any information on the procedures for rebuilding it myself?

 

So no rocks in the brakes. No major chunks of metal in the 75-90. I can only conclude that I need new U-Joints on the rear driveline.

 

I replaced the U-Joint. Everything is ok.

 

Metal in oil is the first sign of a problem but I have rebuilt many axles and you need to check the entire axle in detail. Pull the hubs off and check the bearings pull the carrier out and check to see that the bearing cups have not spun in the housing. If you miss it the first time you will pull it back apart again. The axle tubes need to be cleaned out, any metal left in the axle will shorten the life of the new bearings.

 

A bad u-joint will NOT cause metal in the diff oil. How many miles are on the oil? Is it a very fine deposit of metal on the magnet, or does the oil looks like metalflake paint?

 

Replaced the u Joints all is good. No noise except for a clunk, I am thinking the fron U Joints are next to be replaced.