FL 2 back end grumble

Looking around seems to be a common failure with fl2s the diff bearing gives up and starts to rumble. Mine has developed a kind of grumbling sound at 34k miles but I am not 100% convinced it's the diff, it is more pronounced when everything is cold and accelerating and virtually disappears after about 15 miles.
The sound is not a whining more of a grumble, but it's becoming more pronounced, I need to look at the wheel bearings first, but I don't think I will get off so lightly.
Seen a place at York called A&B who will 're CON the diff with better bearings, anyone used them they seem to be a respected independent LR place.

What about the Haldex? Might need a service, or maybe damaged the diff?

I wouldn't think it wise to replace the diff without servicing the Haldex anyway.

If it were me I'd be asking Bells for advice and be getting a recon diff from there if its needed. Dunno if anyone has any experience of their F2 products, but their F1 VCUs are a good quality recon.

http://www.bellengineering.co.uk/fault-symptoms/

GrumpyGel said:

What about the Haldex? Might need a service, or maybe damaged the diff?

I wouldn't think it wise to replace the diff without servicing the Haldex anyway.

If it were me I'd be asking Bells for advice and be getting a recon diff from there if its needed. Dunno if anyone has any experience of their F2 products, but their F1 VCUs are a good quality recon.

http://www.bellengineering.co.uk/fault-symptoms/

Click to expand...

I am thinking of changing the oil and filter on the haldex but if that is not the problem it will need to be done again when the diff comes out.
I understand bell are well respected but quite honestly their replacement diff is close to £500 with the vat, A&B are about £250 if you drop it off, and they offer 12 months warranty. I am going to look at the wheel bearings, if they are OK then I may pull the haldex off and do the oil and filter. If that's not it then looks like the diff bearing.
I was tempted to do it myself and use a timken bearing, but the parts kit plus the tool you need are a bit dear, and weather is getting worse now for working outside.