Rear diff is shot, options?

[buckeye4runner08]

Have had a terribly annoying noise coming from the rear end of my 08 sr5 (113k miles) for a couple of months and finally got around to taking it to the dealership for diagnosis today. I was hoping it was a wheel bearing going bad, but the tech checked it out and determined that the noise is indeed coming from the diff. He drained it and there were a bunch of metal shavings in there.

So, they quoted me 2400 for a new diff, installed out the door. What do you guys think? Could going with a rebuild save money, or does it make sense to the damn new pumpkin.

That said, anybody in Columbus OH know of a place that would rebuild? I'm pretty lost when it comes to diffs so I'm pretty ignorant of my options. Thanks

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[KidVermicious]

Junkyard diff. Swap it out in your driveway in an hour or two with basic tools. It really doesn't make sense to rebuild or buy new unless you're going to a gear ratio that you can't find used.

 

[mavrick1903]

Wouldn't you be able to do a rear air locker for that much including the compressor?


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[Brian3676]

East coast gear supply.

East Coast Gear Supply

 

[Nervo19]

You need to find a local independent mechanic and stay away from the dealer. Your 4Runner is 11 years old (as is my "new" 4Runner). Their purpose is to service warranty vehicles and sell you a new vehicle. I'm pretty sure an independent guy would have suggested a used rear dif.

I'm not sure if there's a regional group on here you could ask for mechanic names. You could also go on Facebook if you belong to any local message boards. You might find some recommendations there.

 

[jreask]

East coast gear supply.

East Coast Gear Supply

Ditto. You can buy a reman from ECGS for about $650. Unbolt the old one and bolt up the new one. I'd make sure it isn't a wheel bearing for sure. Jack it up and spin the rear wheel. You'll be able to tell if it's rough or noisy. Is it a howling sound? Does it begin at about 20-25 MPH?

 

[CruzadoBlanco]

i buy all the parts such as diffs, axles, body parts, and anything where OEM is the best choice from LKQ. you can either seach local LKQ yards and place an order to pick up or search the national inventory and have what ever you want shipped to your door. they also have old school self service yards in areas.