Hi y'all. After searching for and reading every thread on the forum with the word "backlash" in it without finding an answer, I figured it's time to see if anyone here can help me.
Ever since I bought my 2wd 04 CC a month or so ago, a very pronounced whine has emanated from the rear differential (C200 4.6) upon acceleration and as I come to a stop. If I try to maintain a constant speed, it changes into a grinding/rattling noise.
At first, I thought the differential pinion bearings were in need of replacement, but now I'm not so sure. After noticing a clunk when putting the truck in gear (A/T), I crawled underneath the drivetrain while a buddy shifted the transmission between D and R. I discovered ~10 degrees of backlash (a substantial amount) at the differential pinion. I did not observe play or backlash at any of the three U-joints.
If I tighten up the backlash, will the diff whine/grind go away?
If the answer to this question is "PROBABLY NOT,"
What should I inspect/repair/replace in order to eliminate this problem?
If the answer to this question is "PROBABLY SO,"
Should I adjust backlash by pulling the third member and adding a shim on the left side to push the ring gear toward the pinion, or should I shim the pinion to push it toward the ring gear?
Also, if you think I should just swap in a stronger rear axle because this repair is too involved and the C200 is wimpy, please let me know.
I'm really looking forward to hearing what y'all have to say about this, especially because I have to drive 2,000 miles here in a few days. Any and all help is more than appreciated.
Ever since I bought my 2wd 04 CC a month or so ago, a very pronounced whine has emanated from the rear differential (C200 4.6) upon acceleration and as I come to a stop. If I try to maintain a constant speed, it changes into a grinding/rattling noise.
At first, I thought the differential pinion bearings were in need of replacement, but now I'm not so sure. After noticing a clunk when putting the truck in gear (A/T), I crawled underneath the drivetrain while a buddy shifted the transmission between D and R. I discovered ~10 degrees of backlash (a substantial amount) at the differential pinion. I did not observe play or backlash at any of the three U-joints.
If I tighten up the backlash, will the diff whine/grind go away?
If the answer to this question is "PROBABLY NOT,"
What should I inspect/repair/replace in order to eliminate this problem?
If the answer to this question is "PROBABLY SO,"
Should I adjust backlash by pulling the third member and adding a shim on the left side to push the ring gear toward the pinion, or should I shim the pinion to push it toward the ring gear?
Also, if you think I should just swap in a stronger rear axle because this repair is too involved and the C200 is wimpy, please let me know.
I'm really looking forward to hearing what y'all have to say about this, especially because I have to drive 2,000 miles here in a few days. Any and all help is more than appreciated.