Freelander 1.8 rear diff
- Thread starter Dallies
- Start date
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The VCU support bearings would be the most likely cause. It's very unusual for the rear diff to fail without help from incorrect tyres amd or a stiff VCU, even then the IRD is the first item to go bang.
Make sure all tyrs are identical, with the least worn on the back. Then check the VCU bearings for roughness.
Make sure all tyrs are identical, with the least worn on the back. Then check the VCU bearings for roughness.
Thanks for that. How do I check the vcu bearings?
The prop has already been removed but still getting the humming from the back of the car.
Was the propshaft removed before you got it?
If so then the diff could well be damaged, although a failing wheel bearing can sound like a noisy diff.
You could just remove the diff completely, if you're not going to return it to 4WD.
It's unusual for the diff to fail, but it can happen if odd tyres are fitted, or new tyres are put on the front. This can cause the diff to overheat and loose its oil, which will destroy the gears or bearings.
Under normal correct operation, the rear diff has a very long life.
Under normal correct operation, the rear diff has a very long life.
The oil level is fine with no signs of a leak. The car hasn't long passed an MOT and no wheel bearings were mentioned. Is there anything else that could cause the noise - is it worth changing the rear tyres?
What year is the vehicle? Some Freelanders are hard on some types of tyre, the original Goodyear Wrangler HP were particularly affected, causing the tread to deform and drone. The dealer cure was to swap the rear tyres side to side. This tyre deformation can happen to other tyres too, so it's worth swapping them side to side, to see if the noise goes.
Otherwise suck some oil out the diff to take a look at it. It shouldn't have any metallic particulates in it.
Otherwise suck some oil out the diff to take a look at it. It shouldn't have any metallic particulates in it.
Alibro
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Just curious how you checked the oil level as I've never done it.
Also are the diff support bushes OK?
The transfer box has been mentioned on failing first. Since removing the prop, there is rattling sound from the near side front on acceleration in 3/4/5 gear. Doesn't last long but could this be anything to do with the ird? There's also a grinding noise when braking fairly hard. A bit like brakes grinding but they're all fine.
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