Hey scotty i have a 91 chevy silverado 2500 light duty truck 2wd with 5.7 liter v8 auto trans and it has 174,000 miles on the odometer. The rear differential is making clunking noises, can i still drive it like this for a while or is it dangerous?
Anytime a part on the car is making noises that are abnormal/out of regularity it's a good idea to make the repairs before more damage is done ESPECIALLY on a truck. I would need more details about what exactly you are experiencing: can you post a video of where you think the sound is coming from? Does it happen when you go over bumps or when you accelerate?
The sound usually only happens when shifting from park to reverse or park to drive
There is a good chance you have a bad u-joint on the axle shaft. I would have it inspected by a mechanic ASAP. If it breaks while driving it will likely take other parts with it. When you take it in also have them change the gear lubricant in the rear end and give you a report on the condition of the fluid. Once those two things are done or have been inspected by a technician report back if the symptoms persist.
@inthedetails
I've already taken it to a mechanic and they said it was the differential starting to go out
Get a second opinion. A rear end replacement is a big job and will be pretty costly even if you do it yourself. It's worth getting a few opinions before you commit to making the repair.
And check the rear u joint, you might be lucky ; )
