When I shift to reverse or drive I'm getting a TINK noise from the rear end. Sounds like a piece of gravel flew up and hit the driveshaft or someone tapped the driveshaft with a hammer. My first thought was u-joint but they seem tight. However I believe they are original, so non-greasable, 16 years old and 123k miles. Normally I'd just change the u-joints and see what happens. What worries me is the pinion seal has been leaking since I bought the truck which at that time had 117k miles. Fluid level is good and looks clean but I'm concerned as to why the seal failed. Is seal failure normal for the age and mileage or do I potentially have a failing pinion bearing thus the leak and now the noise.
On the plus side there isn't any noise from the rear diff like howling and no vibrations.
Thoughts?
On the plus side there isn't any noise from the rear diff like howling and no vibrations.
Thoughts?