Batsoff

I recently had my front diff dropped so I could fix an oil pan leak.

Ever since I got my truck back, there has been an intermittent grinding noise coming from the front diff. It is most noticeable when I’m off the gas between 50-30mph. I don’t hear it when I’m accelerating or when I’m in 4 wheel drive. The grind is circular in nature and from what I can tell only really happens when the weight of the truck is shifted forward (deceleration). You can hear the grind, and feel it in the floorboards and steering wheel as it pulses/rotates.

While the CV Axles where out they re-packed my inner CV joints.

At first I thought it was a bad CV joint, so I picked up an extra and have swapped it with both sides to no avail, I can’t get the grind to stop.

I’ve taken the CV axles out and examined them several times, they all seem good.

Is it possible that the diff is not sitting correctly or installed incorrectly?
Has anyone experienced anything like this in the past?
I have no idea how the shop could have damaged the front diff?

Any thoughts are appreciated… I’m getting ready to drop the front differential myself and re-install everything in an effort to get this grinding noise to disappear.


-batsoff
2000 4Runner Highlander

crazy0000

Check to see if the shop left anything in there. Maybe something is rubbing on the driveshaft, or something was installed incorrectly and is now hanging and or touch a moving piece on the vehicle. Also check to make sure the diff bolts are tight. Maybe one wasn't tightened all the way and the diff is vibrating on that.

Moon Bear

I have the exact same sound. I have changed the front bearings and seals. Front calipers and pads and the rear drive shaft trying to figure out the noise. All 3 repairs made the road "noises" a lot quieter, but now I think it's the front diff. Where is the fill/inspection plug on the front diff? Maybe it's just low on fluid?