I finally got around to trying to diagnose the howling noise in that '02 4Runner a picked up several months ago. I need to get it fixed and running so that Colin has something to drive to CNM/UNM once we move to the new house in Sandia Park in January. The PO towed a trailer that was way too large with this 4Runner for too long and it already got a new transmission and transfer case. I knew about the possible rear diff replacement when I bought it which is why I paid $1,500 for it.
I pulled the rear diff drain plug and discovered some metal flakes stuck to the magnet in the drain plug. My dad was helping and he's a retired mechanic so he added to the diagnosis (and hindered productivity with his commentary). The appearance of the flakes indicates spalling of gear faces. What I need to figure out now is the best route for repair. I'm not in the mood to pull the differential and try to rebuild it myself. I wondered if there is a resource in town for purchasing rebuilt complete third members, if I should order one from JustDiffereantials (or elsewhere) or just go super cheap and get one with unknown history from the salvage yard. Or should I go see what I can get with the MUD discount at AmToy?
I pulled the rear diff drain plug and discovered some metal flakes stuck to the magnet in the drain plug. My dad was helping and he's a retired mechanic so he added to the diagnosis (and hindered productivity with his commentary). The appearance of the flakes indicates spalling of gear faces. What I need to figure out now is the best route for repair. I'm not in the mood to pull the differential and try to rebuild it myself. I wondered if there is a resource in town for purchasing rebuilt complete third members, if I should order one from JustDiffereantials (or elsewhere) or just go super cheap and get one with unknown history from the salvage yard. Or should I go see what I can get with the MUD discount at AmToy?
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