Differential Help

[ClassicJ]

So my 99 Burban is making a whirring sound whenever I accelerate, i took it to a few shops and 2 of the 3 said it was my rear differential. The shops have given me a estimate of 3G's because they say I'm better of replacing the whole axle, which sounds very questionable.

If I wanted to start off by just replacing the bearings/gears and then move to the differential(or vice versa) how much should I be paying for the parts? Also how much should I be paying for labor only if I decide to go with a different shop? Any post or recommendations for websites will be much appreciated.

Its a 99 C1500, 3.73 ratio, locking differential.

---------- Post added at 07:13 PM ---------- Previous post was at 07:10 PM ----------

so far i found theses kits, would any of these work?

http://eastcoastgearsupply.com/i-127270-gm-10-bolt-8-5-install-kit-master.html

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/s...teering&intcmpid=Product+Listings+Best+Seller

http://www.autopartswarehouse.com/s...ml?loc=Rear&tlc=Brakes,+Suspension+&+Steering

 

[AtomicHoe094]

3 grand is a lot of money for a rebuild on a rear end. Id stick with Timken bearings and a nice set of seals. Have you check the fluid lately? could it just be low??

 

[ClassicJ]

I figured that as well. No Im not really mechanically inclined nor do I really have the time or capabilities or know how, to check the fluids. So the Timken kit I posted is a good way to go? Is there anything else I should be looking for?

 

[SunlitComet]

unless your tubes and housing are damaged just use Master rebuilding kit. For three grand you can get all new internal parts including bearings, gears, locking unit, hardware, seals, axles and a cast or machined cover all of high quality components and still have money left over.

---------- Post added at 05:22 PM ---------- Previous post was at 05:20 PM ----------

On your rear axle remove the plug about mid height and stick your finger in there. If you feel it near the bottom of hole or it pours out fluid level is fine but see how it looks too.

 

[retorq]

If the shop tells you it's easier to drop in a (junk yard?!) rear end, you need to find a new shop.