Freelander Rumbling noises

Hi Guys, I am a car mechanic with pretty much Zero experience other than servicing these things. I have recently bought a 2001 model freelander very cheap off a family friend. Well it has a rumbling noise from the rear like a bad bearing that only starts at 30mph upwards i have tested it on full lock in reverse
to see if it knocks and there is no knocking or banging and it drives really well forwards could this either be the VCU Bearings? or the fact that i have open tread wrangler type tyres on steel rims? it is also alot noisier with the seats down and parcel shelf out.

Any help and advice appreciated cheers

rear diff?

wot injun has it?

Sorry its the horrid k series!! so you think it could be the IRD fubard?

the IRD isnt the rear diff.
if the noise is coming from the rear, it is unlikey to be the IRD.

have yu checked propshaft UJ's?

No i haven't yet so maybe it could be a bad propshaft then.

If its at all possible could you give me a list of things to look for and eliminate to get to the bottom of this.

Also where would the noise be coming from if my IRD was worn? For future reference

Thanks

If you are a mechanic removal of the prop shaft, VCU and bearings will enable you to eliminate noises from the prop and rear diff.

It only takes about 30 mins max to remove and you can still use the car in "eco" front wheel drive mode whilst you sort things out.