I've been reading the FAQ's and everything on the common 4th gen. differential bearing problem. Bottom line is it sucks and i hoped i wouldnt have the problem, but i think i do. Im takin it to a mechanic this week to see waht they say. If i do have it fixed, i was wondering what i should make sure of/ask the mech. I know to make sure they properly shim them...but what else should i make sure of to ensure htis doesnt happen again. What kind of gear oil should i make sure they use, etc... anything at all would help...
97 SE with 70k miles

 

What are the symptos that make you think your diff bearings are shot?

 

I read that a common sympton is a type of whining noise. I just had my brake pads replaced, so im pretty sure its not them. When im in 1st gear going slow i hear a mild high pitched whine...sounds similar to brakes going. I also do have that strange leak that i cant figure out...i think it is gear oil. Its clear with a mild brown color, and its coming off of my front left axle i think. The dripping is about 1-1.5 feet inside of the front left tire. My car is also at 70k miles, which is where the bearings usually go. Hopefully i am wrong though...what else could it be?

 

you would be suprised how long those symptoms last for some people and the diff bearings don't actually go....but for some they go fast from the time those symptoms start....I guess it all depends on how you drive and how much...my last tranny lasted for about a year like that....now this one is starting to leak out the driver axle seal and is whining...I'm gonna get a 5th gen tranny soon...so I don't really care about this tranny...but atleast this time I recognize my bearings are going, so I have been babying it a lot more..!