I have a 2001 Ranger 4 X 2, 2.5L, with 3.73 gears.

I don't know if it's related or not, but a couple of months ago, I had the rear pinion seal changed, by a reliable mechanic.

A few days ago, it may have been my imagination, but something felt a little funny, accelerating from a stop - but only that one time.

Now I am hearing a noise from the rear - a faint metallic whine - almost like, but not quite, like a blown rear master cylinder. The noise is present under acceleration, and while coasting, but it seems to go away at certain speeds, and it goes away at 50+ mph. No vibration or other drivability problems.

In short, I am very short on cash; don't do anything more than tuneup's, and am hoping that the rear isn't going. I brought it to my trusted mechanic, who told me that the noise is too faint, to correctly point out the problem, without a teardown.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks in advance

 

Might be the u-joints but dont take my word on it. Have they ever been replaced?

 

I would check the differential fluid level right away. Even reliable mechanics sometimes make mistakes.

 

Thank you both, for your replies. We've been hit with a bit of snow, although I plan on looking into this, ASAP.

In the meantime, if it is the pinion bearing, is it a big job to have done? I am hearing nightmarish stories. The dealer is saying that bad bearings will kill the rear ($900+); a local mechanic is telling me that the labor alone on replacing a rear-end is $500.

Any idea of what to expect, in a worst case scenario?

Thanks again, for the help!