Rear differential

1999 DODGE CARAVAN
200,000 MILES • 3.8L • 6 CYL • 4WD • AUTOMATIC
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JAMES HAMILTON
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  • 7 POSTS
Passenger side. Rear tire is extremely hard to turn and differential bangs against underbody.
Dec 19, 2018 at 5:25 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Hi and thanks for using 2CarPros.

First, check to make sure the brake isn't locked. Remove the brake a caliper to see if that allows the wheel to turn.

If it doesn't, unbolt the axle at the differential (see attache picture). See if you can then turn it.

Let me know the results.

Joe
Dec 19, 2018 at 7:46 PM
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JAMES HAMILTON
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Okay, e-brake was locked. Differential still bangs and jumps.
Dec 20, 2018 at 12:24 AM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • CERTIFIED EXPERT
  • 110,175 POSTS
Welcome back:

Confirm that the CV joints in both rear axles are in good condition and not loose. Also, check and confirm that the universal joint on the driveshaft is good.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-u-joints-work

Also, make sure there isn't excessive play in the wheel / hub bearings.

Lets start with the simple things first. Also, let me know specifically when the issue happens as well as if anything changes it. I really want to eliminate the easy things before we dig into the differential. Make sure the differential fluid is full and clean.

Joe
Dec 20, 2018 at 5:50 PM