Rear whirling/grinding noise 3rd Gen 4Runner

[Temple90]

I have had 0 issues with my 4runner for the first year of ownership and am now running into multiple issues.

For the last couple months I have heard a whirling noise from the rear. I lifted the truck up and it does not happen every revolution more like every 3-4 revolutions of the wheel. Recently I have also started hearing a scrapping/grinding noise from the rear. Almost like a dust shield scraping on a rotor, but in the rear.

I'm guessing the bearings in the diff need to be replaced, but could it be a rear wheel bearing instead?

 

[kolelt]

Have you checked the diff fluid on the rear axle ? I’d it’s clear. Then it’s good. If it’s dark grey and stinks. Good indicator that the diff bearings are shot.

Do you see any diff fluid around any of the back wheels ?

 

[Wedgy]

I think the pinion gear in the diff is a common culprit.

 

[Temple90]

Thank you for the info! I might get my rear rebuilt and get a new axle case too. Only part of my 4runner thats very rusty.

 

[liljoedafishho]

same here

rear bearings replaced twice ,front once-shop said too expnsive for diff overhaul-$2500 '99 262k mi -trade in or sell...

 

[5 Speed Dave]

Used rear locker

I lost the rear end in my 98 "Roscoe" last August. I looked at having it rebuilt. Found a nice USED Factory Locker for under $1000 shipped to my driveway. Less than 100K miles from Texas and it had original 22 year old paint on it with almost no rust at all. Installed myself along with NEW wiring for the locker and it's been GREAT!

 

[liljoedafishho]

you are lucky with that-mine runs great,but whines the loudest@49mph -its for sale now -1999,216k mi,for sale now $9k - just bought 2007 gx 470...lexus its delux