Rory Fraser

hey guys so i have a 2000 v6 with 82k milles (manual)

when driving their is a whine in the rear end and when at higher speeds it is louder and when going slower it quiets a bit but not by much i tried searching but im in the dark only ideas is its my ring and pinion or bearings maybe both is their any other possible things i would like to hear your guys input on what to do

PNYXPRESS

The whining is from the ring and pinion. the cause is probably due to a bearing allowing either the pinion or diff to move.

I would replace the gears and all bearings to be safe.

Or just pick up an entire rear end for ~$100

corker

First check for gear oil. Is the whine all the time, louder on acceleration, louder when coasting? Pay close attention to the sound the next time you drive - does it change on turns, only straight ahead? A few questions to answer and we may be able to help further.

Rory Fraser

the whine gets louder at higher cruising speeds and quieter at lower cruising speeds, it doesn't change sounds when turning just when driving straight it gets noticeable and loud in 3rd 4th and 5th gear sound is still their when off the gas it sounds like it is coming from the rear when driving could may be a throw out bearing ?

corker

TO bearing is a little easier to diagnose - at idle, with clutch disengaged, open door and listen for any noise. Then, step on clutch pedal (pressure on TO bearing) and listen for any change in noise (rumble, whine, squeal).
The diff is a little more difficult. Standard diff has 2 side bearings, 2 pinion bearings and 2 axle bearings. In addition, a ring and pinion out of adjustment can cause an annoying whine. I have repaired 2 explorers that had bad pinion bearings - the pinion sits at the bottom of the diff and both units had a small amount of water settle there and cause rust in the bearing (inner race all pitted).
The easiest thing you can do is remove the diff cover, drain oil into a clean pan and check for water and metal (small amount of metal flakes is normal). Do a good visual and rotate components by hand and listen and feel for any roughness in bearings. Look at ring and pinion wear pattern (google what a good pattern looks like).

Rory Fraser

ok thanks ill try that and then i will consult a mechanic thanks for all your help guys