Its at 130k miles and making some strange noises. When I'm in the gas there is a chirping similar to a water pump going out, but this only when there is a load on the motor (not when in neutral). Then when the vehicle is coasting to a stop and down shifting there is a growling sound (that one is harder to describe). Has anyone come across this? I am just hoping that it is not the transmission. I've already redone both head gaskets and am not looking for anymore big "investments" in this vehicle for a while. Thanks a lot!

mv

 

Just a few thoughts. Have the front driveshaft u-joints been replaced? Is there any vibration associated with the noises while driving?

Dave

 

My bet is on the front drive shaft, and if that is the problem I would suggest you not drive it at all till you can find someone to rebuild the drive line installing new u-joints with grease fittings.
Crawl under the truck with a flash light and see if the front drive shaft, where it hooks to the t/case, has grease fitting, if it doen't that is your problem. If it fails while driving a dealer will charge you around $7000 to replace thye tranny and broken shaft.

 

There is a slight vibration that I have recently noticed. I stopped driving it out of fear of it worsening. I just checked for the grease fitting and could not see one. You are talking about a normal-looking grease fitting that could be greased with a gun right?

I am a DIY'er (famous last words) is this something I should attempt on my own?

 

Probably not. I would call a tranny shop and get a quote. Should be under $200. The problem is the centering ball in the double cardan joint by the transfer case. Let a pro handle it if you haven't done one yourself...well worth the$$.

Get it done soon. I wouldn't drive anywhere until it is fixed. If it breaks, it will slap the tranny out of the truck...

 

Cant you remove front ds and lock diff so you can still drive on rear for short time

 

If you have CDL or can access the spud for it on transfer case on units not so equipped, yes.