Can a problem with the rear differential be detected by electronic diagnostic?
Asked by greatshades Apr 05, 2012 at 10:26 PM about the 2000 Dodge RAM Van 2500 Extended Cargo RWD
Question type: Maintenance & Repair
Have a 2001 Dodge ram van which was making bad noise backing up or turning al low speeds.
Repair shop lubricated it and the noise is gone, but they think it may need a bearing replaced.
4 Answers
No it cannot be diagnosed electronically. Electronic diagnosis is primarily limited to components relating to the emissions system of the vehicle, with some exceptions. Differential repairs should always be done by a qualified professional, as the setup of the gears requires precision within a few thousandths of an inch in order to mesh properly.
greatshades answered 12 years ago
Thank you very much. Since they lubricated it, it hasn't made any noise at all and it drives like a dream. they speculated that it might need a bearing replaced. What is your take on this? would you go ahead and have the bearing replaced?
Id go to an axle/transmission specialist and have them do a full rebuild of the rear end, generally once the diff carrier bearings start to go, it will start to cause damage to the pinion bearing, i would do a full rebuild sooner rather than later to save your self from destroying a pinion or ring gear in the future, bearings and the labor is reasonably cheap, gears are expensive.
