2001 Suburban 1500 rear pinion question

[sjesimon]

I have a 2001 Suburban 1500 2WD. There is a grinding or whining noise coming from the rear, usually only when I'm on the accelerator and for a few seconds immediately after I let off it. A friend who is a shadetree mechanic said it sounds like the pinion seal and bearing need replaced. He crawled under there and said there is no sign there has ever been a leak.

Could it be that the pinion bearing has just worn out and the seal has not, hence the reason for no leak? Or is there another possibility I should look for?

Thanks,

Stephen

 

[Chuzz]

Probably a stupid question, but have you checked the fluid level in the rear differential? Maybe some Lucas differential treatment would help.

 

[zora]

as above check the fluid level. If that doesnt solve it you have to open the rear and check the wear pattern on the ring and pinion teeth.

 

[Chuzz]

If you don't know what you're doing, you really need to take it to someone that does. Proper spacing is critical for ring and pinion performance.