I have an '82 GSL, and recently I've noticed a loud noise coming from my rear-end. The noise sounds almost like a lawn mower. I think it may be coming from inside the differential, but I'm not sure. The noise happens at any speed and/or any gear, and goes away when I press on the breaks really hard, and comes back when I let go. I've checked my gear oil, and it hasn't helped. I'm wondering if it could be the bearings? Could anyone help me out if they think they know what could be the source of the noise?

 

First, do a visual inspection. Jack up the car and look for signs of fluid leaking around the ends of the axle housing (which points to wheel bearings) and the center part of the axle where the diff carrier (also called third member) mounts tp the axle housing (this would point to being low on fluid which means most everything has been compromised.

It is also possible your parking brake is dragging or a caliper is stuck. If you can easily spin the each rear wheel when the car is jacked up, then the brakes are fine. If the brakes are dragging, it will be obvious.

Let me know.

Rich

 

I had a similar problem....I thought it was my LSD clutches so i took everything apart and to my suprise it was the bearings, COMPLEYTLY destroyed. Over time did you notice it getting louder?