2001 JGC Laredo Differential Work.

[larrysynak]

Hi all.
Been awhile. Getting a increasing loud constant pitch grind from the rear of my 2001 JGC while moving. 103,000 miles. My mechanic, whom I trust totally, road tested with me and told me right off sounds like pinion gear for sure and whatever dessert comes with it after it's opened and looked at.
Said the rear diff issue is pretty common on Jeeps and Chryslers in general. I believe it as I had this same done on my 96 a while back. The 01 is going in this Friday for the surgery and I'll update you on what we find. 2nd issue is seems we are constantly replenishing coolant, like topping off every week. Went underneath and found wetness about dead center between the two front wheels but could not pinpoint. Oil looks clean. Any thoughts on either of these issues, especially the coolant problem? Just turned 246,000 on my 96. Running like a champ.

 

[larrysynak]

Back with an update. Had the work done last weekend. Replaced all bearings in rear differential. No gears needed replacement and the old fluid appeared relatively clean. Still a $500 job but less then what was quoted.
Truck runs very quietly now, no more back end screaming. Intermittent coolant leak on front end was a faulty water pump on borrowed time.
Shop said they replaced 4 Chrysler waterpumps in the last 2 weeks.
Am running again!