How do I know if my diff is stuffed??

Bubba · Post by **Bubba** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 1:17 pm

I know it sounds like a stupid question but I bought the truck with a broken diff, it was also missing a hubb, which the prevous owner said made some funny noices and then flew off while driving. I took it for granted that it was the diff that was broken.

The first time and only time I have put it in 4wd I expected to hear broken teeth trying to lock on to each other. but to my surprise nothing, it acted like I would expect it too (or wouldn't expect it too as the case may be)

This made me think that maybe just maybe it's not the diff and it was the hubb that shat itself.:pooh:

suggestions anybody

Leithfield · Post by **Leithfield** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 1:37 pm

If you're getting 4wd traction without a heavy metal overture from the diff, then chances are your suspicion of hub failure is correct (I'm assuming you have since replaced the hub?).

Also, check the condition of your diff oil - if it contains the last mortal remains of gear teeth, etc ... or breadcrumbs fall out :wink:

, it's stuffed .

Bubba · Post by **Bubba** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 1:45 pm

Check the oil, ahhh good one.

Yeah it appeared to have traction with no noise. No I haven't replaced it yet. Can I have different brands on each wheel or do they need to be the same (but both being manual)?

H2OLOVA · Post by **H2OLOVA** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 2:30 pm

different brands shouldn't matter, as long as they work. You'll just have to get used to everyone hassling you about how it looks :wink:

Buy a matching pair and keep your odd one as a spare.

Post by **mike** » Mon Jul 17, 2006 2:41 pm

If you havnt replaced the hub then you wont have traction with an open diff. If you locked the other hub in and are missing the other side then the half shaft on the missing side will be spinning and because all the drive will be going to this shaft and your other wheel will not have drive at all.

I would check the oil. if your diff is stuffed you will soon spot it

Mike

H2OLOVA · Post by **H2OLOVA** » Tue Jul 18, 2006 9:48 am

If you are testing it with the hub still missing then you'll get false info. Without the hub on, the diff wont be loading up as such. It will be spinning the axle on the side with least resistance. With no load even a knackered diff could sound fine.